Your summary is correct with one exception. When I initially got the machine and went thru it, there was no spark at all via electric starter button when a spark plug was in cylinder. Then after my brother-in-law unplugged just about everything and tested individual components. it started working for one afternoon intermittendly.
The next day, all we get is a single click at the starter relay right above the battery. It clicks when the electric start button is pushed.
I guess something may have gone wrong inside the starter after riding hard all day. Up until then, it turned strong.
I will take your advise and try to jump to the starter if I can get back to it. As you know, the stud is in a tight area. I will also recheck the wires again. As you can imagine, this apparent simple problem has become very aggravating. When I bought this thing, the previous owner said it was just the key switch. Famous last words.
Thanks,
Dan