It started out, when I would kick it, there would be some resistance and it gradually got less and less. Its almost like if there were a gear inside, and in time, the gears teeth wore down or broke off one by one, and now there’s nothing catching the kickstart…but I don’t know the situation "behind the scenes." How does a kickstart work and how can I fix this?

The starter is fine…if I can get any resistance its starts right up. Battery is new, good spark plugs, etc. Also, maybe this is unrelated, but the hose that the gas tickler is hooked up to isn’t getting much suction and the gas isnt filling up in it like it used to.

Hey everyone… So I took the alternator apart and had to clean up the rotor but didn’t have to remove it. Getting nice resistance readings (ideal is 4.5 with 10% room for error) I am reading a consistant 4.8 ohms.
The stator tests good but now I can’t get the darned thing back in. I am sure if I really push or rubber mallet the thing to death I can get it back in but… it’s still a good stator and I want to keep it that way.
What is a good rule of thumb for getting the stator back in around the rotor and seated into the housing?
No gears to mesh. The stator is fixed while the rotor spins. The rotor has not moved since the stator has been pulled. I am thinking it is just a tight fit (as it was when I removed it)

I have a 2001 model Sportster. Where i live there is a lot of dust and humidity. probably not goood for any part of the bike. but the front brake handle has a lot of free play. I have to press it about 1 inch before i feel any resistance. i had it servicced a few months ago and the guy said that it’s the Claiper that sticks and has to be opened and pressed back.
Is that true? and is it something i can do by myself? Advise please.