Whether it’s your first time on a Harley or you’re getting back in the saddle after some time away, learning how to start a Harley-Davidson correctly is essential. Modern Harleys include advanced features like keyless ignition, security fobs, and electronic fuel injection — so starting one isn’t exactly the same as firing up an old carbureted bike.
This guide walks you through how to start a Harley-Davidson step-by-step — covering both traditional keyed ignitions and newer keyless models — plus troubleshooting tips for when your bike won’t start.
💡 Quick Answer: Turn On the Ignition, Flip the Kill Switch, and Press Start
To start most Harley-Davidson motorcycles:
- Make sure the bike is in neutral.
- Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position (or ensure your key fob is within range).
- Flip the red kill switch on the right handlebar to “RUN.”
- Wait a few seconds for the fuel pump to prime.
- Press and hold the starter button until the engine fires up.
That’s it! Your Harley is ready to roar. But depending on your model, there are a few differences — especially between older and newer bikes.
🏍️ Step 1: Check That Your Bike Is in Neutral
Before pressing any buttons, make sure your Harley is in neutral. You can verify this by:
- Looking for the green neutral light on your dash.
- Gently rocking the bike — it should move freely.
- Making sure the clutch is pulled in if you plan to start in gear.
Starting the bike in gear without pulling the clutch can cause it to lurch forward — a rookie mistake every rider wants to avoid.
⚙️ Step 2: Turn On the Ignition or Activate Keyless Start
Harley-Davidson motorcycles use one of two systems to power up the electronics:
🔑 For Keyed Ignition Models:
- Insert your key into the ignition switch.
- Turn it clockwise to the “IGN” or “ON” position.
- You’ll hear the fuel pump whir and your dash lights come alive.
📡 For Keyless Ignition Models (Smart Key Fob):
- Make sure the key fob is within 5 feet of your Harley.
- Rotate the ignition knob (or press the power button on some models) to turn the bike “ON.”
- The system will automatically detect the fob and disarm the security system.
Modern Harleys with keyless ignition make life simple — no need to insert or turn a physical key.
🔴 Step 3: Flip the Kill Switch to “Run”
The kill switch (also called the engine cut-off switch) is located on the right handlebar, usually marked in red.
- Flip the switch from “OFF” to “RUN.”
- This enables power to the ignition system and starter motor.
- If left off, the engine won’t crank even if the dash lights are on.
Many new riders overlook this step — so if your Harley won’t start, always check the kill switch first.
⏱️ Step 4: Wait for the Fuel Pump to Prime
Modern Harley-Davidson bikes use electronic fuel injection (EFI), which requires a few seconds to pressurize the fuel system.
- Listen for a soft humming sound (the fuel pump).
- Wait 3–5 seconds before starting the engine.
This ensures optimal fuel pressure for smooth ignition and prevents unnecessary cranking.
⚡ Step 5: Press the Starter Button
Once the bike is in neutral, ignition is on, and the kill switch is set to RUN, it’s time to bring your Harley to life:
- Press and hold the black starter button on the right handlebar.
- Release the button once the engine fires up (usually within 2–3 seconds).
- Don’t hold the starter for more than 5 seconds — if it doesn’t start, wait 10 seconds before trying again.
Congratulations — your Harley is running. Let it idle for a minute or two before riding, especially if it’s been sitting in cold weather.
🧠 Step 6: Starting Older Harleys with Carburetors
If you’re riding a pre-2007 Harley with a carbureted engine, you’ll need to use the choke or enrichener to help with cold starts:
- Turn the ignition key to ON.
- Pull the choke knob out fully (usually near the throttle or fuel tank).
- Press the starter button and let the bike idle for 30–60 seconds.
- Gradually push the choke in as the engine warms up.
Carbureted Harleys need a bit more finesse, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.
🔋 Step 7: Check Battery and Electrical Health
If your Harley doesn’t start or cranks slowly, your battery could be low. Check your battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a full charge:
- Use a multimeter — a healthy battery reads 12.6–12.8 volts at rest.
- If it’s below 12 volts, charge it with a tender before attempting to start again.
- Consider upgrading your lights to Eagle Lights LEDs — they draw less power and help preserve battery life.
Weak batteries are one of the most common reasons a Harley won’t start, especially after long storage periods.
🧩 Step 8: Troubleshooting Common Harley Starting Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power at all | Dead battery or loose terminals | Charge or replace the battery; tighten connections |
| Clicking noise but no start | Weak battery or bad starter relay | Check battery voltage; inspect starter relay |
| Turns over but doesn’t fire | Kill switch off or no fuel | Ensure switch is in RUN; check fuel tank |
| Security light stays on | Key fob not detected | Replace fob battery or enter PIN manually |
| Dies after starting | Clogged fuel filter or low idle | Clean or replace fuel filter; adjust idle speed |
Always start with the simplest fixes — kill switch, battery, and fob issues account for most Harley “no start” cases.
🔑 Step 9: Starting a Harley Without a Key Fob (PIN Override)
If your key fob battery dies, you can still start your Harley using your personal security PIN:
- Turn the ignition switch to ON (or push the knob once on keyless models).
- When the security light flashes, press and release the left turn signal button.
- Use the right turn signal to cycle through digits and the left to confirm each one.
- After entering your full PIN, the security system disarms.
- Flip the kill switch to RUN and press the starter button as usual.
This backup method is a lifesaver if your key fob dies while you’re on the road.
🌡️ Step 10: Warm Up Before Riding
Harley-Davidson V-twins are air- and oil-cooled, which means letting them warm up is important:
- Allow 1–3 minutes of idle time for oil to circulate.
- Avoid revving hard immediately after startup.
- Check that all lights are working — especially your Eagle Lights LED headlights and turn signals for safety before pulling out.
This helps maintain engine longevity and ensures smooth throttle response when you hit the road.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
How do you start a Harley-Davidson with a key fob?
Keep the key fob within 5 feet of the bike, turn the ignition knob to “ON,” flip the kill switch to RUN, and press the start button.
What if my Harley key fob battery is dead?
Use your backup PIN to manually disarm the security system — then start the bike as usual.
Can you start a Harley without the clutch pulled in?
Only if the bike is in neutral. If in gear, you must hold the clutch to start safely.
Why won’t my Harley start but the lights work?
This usually means your battery doesn’t have enough amperage to turn the starter motor. Try charging or jump-starting it.
How long should I let my Harley idle before riding?
About 1–3 minutes — just enough for oil circulation and stabilization, especially in cold weather.
Should I warm up my Harley before every ride?
Yes. It helps maintain proper lubrication and smoother throttle response.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Confidence Starts with Knowing Your Bike
Starting a Harley-Davidson may seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the steps — ignition on, kill switch to RUN, fuel pump prime, and start button — it becomes second nature. Whether it’s a keyless CVO or a classic carbureted Softail, every Harley starts with confidence and character.
Before hitting the road, make sure your motorcycle is visible and road-ready. Upgrading to Eagle Lights LED headlights and turn signals ensures you’re seen day or night — because a smooth start is only the beginning of a bright ride.
Ride smart. Ride bright. Ride Harley.
