Modern Vespa

Hello! BV has been doing an intermittent start thing since last summer. One day my gauges went haywire while driving, bike never turned off. Got nervous; took it to a shop, they replaced the battery, issue was essentially dormant, though the bike was not ridden for about 10 months.

This year:
Bike starts in the morning, low idle, putters out with gas. I start it a second time, starts right up. -Almost every morning I go to ride it; 3 days a week.

Last two weeks:
I press the start button, lights on, nothing else happens. Like there's no battery connected (except for the lights). I still feel the thrum of the fuel pump, but nothing. It's like the start button isn't connected to anything. Or it does the same thing it did "This year." It will start in the morning, and then it won't start later. Or vice versa.

Yesterday:
I replaced the solenoid. Started right up, first time, no sputtering, just beautiful.

Today:
I went back out, again with lights, but zero engine turnover.

I check the side stand (my main stand), not gunky, but clean it regardless. -Nothing.
I check and clean ignition (WD40). -Nothing.
I check the start button (also WD40). -Nothing.

Realized I had a metal piece that slides into the rubber case for the solenoid, and screws onto the bike (by battery) that I forgot to re-attach. -I get it attached, reconnect the battery etc.
STARTS RIGHT UP. Maybe that metal piece helps with the grounding?

This intermittent thing is back (I fear). Anyone have ANY other ideas?

THANKS IN ADVANCE.

well that 10 months of no use did not do your battery any favors.

the batteries like to be used and used often.

your probably looking at another battery

It was in the shop waiting for new plastics but they haven't been able to replicate the issue.

Update: 'Twas the side stand sensor.









...Or so they would have me believe.