I have an xvs 1100 custom 54 plate. Recently having problems starting it up, eventually it does fire but only after holding the ignition down for 10+ secs, it makes a whirring sound as though it doesn't appear to be firing.... normally would fire up right or at least sound like it was trying

a faulty battery /////change it.

Your issue might be the lock cylinder contacts, when you put the key in and turn to on position it will provide 12V to the rest of the circuits, your switch contacts might be corroded .

try turning ignition to accesories and hold down trip meter reset button for ten seconds this works on some makes of cars.

oxidation maybe on the batt post--cleanum well and titen cables--voltage shud be around 12.6--take batt out and put a meter on then test again after an hour--cause that reading u got appears to be alternator--

Air cleaner clean? Is it in fact warm (the engine) .

Id be inclined to let it warm a little more. Your hot bike has advanced time and as a result is difficult when cold.

It does sound like a fuel filter or supply problem. Anyone can change a filter,just use common sense,like don't smoke while doing it,lol. I'd check the ignition points if it has them,might be electronic.

Hi there fellow XVS dragstar owner!

I had the same problem before. It is usually caused by the wrong jets installed. have it Replaced with the standard jets that came with it... this will solve the problem on acceleration. Make sure the fuel and air mixture knob is set to 2.5 turns-out from full close. clean the spark plugs.. better, replace it with a new one to ensure clean burning of fuel. also, use unleaded gas. this burns better.

hope this helps
-levibit-