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I have a 2018 CRF450R with a weird starting issue. It was running fine, I then washed the bike, replaced the cam chain (for preventative maintenance), and checked the valves (they were spot on). I also installed heated grips for winter riding. I had these on last winter with no issues. When I went to start the bike, I pushed the start button, and the bike started to crank for a split second, then stops. If I continue pressing the start button it will do this 5-6 times, then on the 6-10th push of the start button it will start right up and run fine. When I shut it off, then push the button to start it again, it does the same thing. Won't start for the first 5 or so pushes of the start button. It starts to crank for a split second, then stops. Then randomly on the 6-10th push of the button it will start up with no issue.

I've read about issues with the starter reduction gear slipping and causing this to happen. I pulled my clutch out and inspected the starter reduction gear. It seems to be fine. I marked the inner and outer gears in the same spot, hit the starter several times and watched them spin. They are spinning together like they should, it doesn't look like the pressed on starter reduction gear has slipped or come loose like others have seen. I am not sure what could be causing this. I checked the fuse on the starter relay, it is good. If the kill switch had moisture in it, I wouldn't think the bike would start at all. Has anyone else had this happen?

I am dealing with the same thing on my 2020 i am 100% lost ive changed out the starter reduction gear , batter ,starter , starter relay , but yet i get the same thing

Welcome to the site !!

If you also washed your bike and this started happening , I would look at the kill/map switch as the issue , if it gets wet (like when pressure washing or car wash , etc.) it will either completely short out , or intermittently work ... I always put a 1 gallon zip lock bag on my 20 when I wash it , then even with that , after I am done washing it , I take the compressor and blow off the bike , including and especially the kill/map switch just to be safe ....