The Mystery of the Missing Spark
One of the most common faults on a classic motorcycle is also one of the most frustrating. The engine turns over, fuel is reaching the carburettor, but there is no spark at the plug.
The good news is that most ignition faults can be traced with a simple and methodical approach. On older motorcycles, common causes include dirty points, poor earth connections, damaged plug caps, failed condensers, weak coils or corroded wiring hidden beneath the tank.
Many owners immediately start replacing parts, but a careful inspection often finds the fault much faster. A loose connection or a bit of corrosion can stop a perfectly good motorcycle from starting.
When we recommission imported motorcycles, ignition systems are always checked thoroughly before assuming anything major is wrong. Sometimes the fix takes hours, but occasionally it's as simple as cleaning a contact and tightening a connection.
Have you ever spent hours chasing a no-spark fault only to discover it was something simple?