got my first xs650

[jpdevol]

Here’s a picture of what I mean, bcuz I suck at using words. Lol

The suggestion for tracing (using a multimeter) is great.
The stock '75 Key Switch is actually intended to power ignition and lights in pos. I and tailight only "park" in II.

 

[Tristan805]

To get the feel for your electrical you may have to do a little tracing. Take one circuit at a time. Start with lights, make a diagram and note the colors. I know it sounds daunting but as you trace you will see it’s actually pretty easy.

Thank you. That’ll by my Friday project

 

[Tristan805]

The suggestion for tracing (using a multimeter) is great.
The stock '75 Key Switch is actually intended to power ignition and lights in pos. I and tailight only "park" in II.
View attachment 228785

Thank you! I’ll go buy a multimeter and learn how to use it this weekend. Lol this has been a great learning experience, never thought I’d be able to do half of the simple things I’ve done so far.

 

[Jan_P]

Lets keep this simple for now
CSF rule Cheapest Simplest First

bike will kick start (bike is kickstart only) but then dies if i throttle it.

That is a typical indication of a weak battery and / or a weak charging.
the Voltage measurement across the battery needs to be performed.

Let the bike stand still a day or so
Please check that battery is connected properly Nothing is loose.

a ) Measure the Voltage across the battery everything off
b) Switch on ignition and measure again Across the battery
c ) if it will run please try to measure across battery and report that + the actual rev when measuring
preferably at 2 or 3 k but if it dies rty at idle

Please report these readings Here
Do you know how old the battery is.