Ok so I recently purchased a 2001 Honda 400ex from a private owner. When I went to go buy the bike I was wondering if it was running fine, so I asked the guy and he seems like a very trust worthy guy. So I gave the bike a spin and it runs perfectly! So when I took it home the next day it refused to turn on! I have electric start so I obviously cannot just keep pushing the button because my battery will die. So are there any ideas as to why it won't turn on or have any tips on getting it running? Thank you in advance!

 

Check the gas is full and on? Tap the carb with a screwdriver, the float needle might be stuck...

Spark plug wire is on?

 

What he said, and most likely it has never even had a valve adjustment either....

 

May seem obvious but people new to honda's sometimes aren't familiar with the run switch and just push it over to the side without giving it thought. Make sure you set it to the middle position.

 

I also forgot to mention that when I push the start button it makes this loud click crack sound coming from the battery. It just does that every time I push the ignition button. Is the battery dead?

 

Not be and might not be the battery it could be a loose battery cable connection as well as a ground short going from one of the cables , i would check this out first ; then if it isn't the problem follow the other members suggestions !

I hope this is of help to you , so you can get it going and reliable ; and not get out a long way from the parking lot !..........

 

Did you leave the key on perhaps?

 

id say bad connection or solonoid if its clicking. try jumping the solonoid