Starter Relay vs. Starter solenoid

Is there a difference?

Do these bikes have both?

From the looks of the wiring diagram its just a strter relay no solenoid. looks to me that the component does the same thing.

 

A solenoid for our purposes is a type of relay.

In a standard relay you have an electromagnet. When the coil is energized it pulls a hinged plate toward it. Attached to the plate is a contact point that closes another circuit.

A solenoid is a coil of wire around a hollow tube. When the coil is energized it can pull a ferrous (iron) rod through it. In a starter solenoid the contact point that closes the starter circuit is on the end of that rod.

It seems to me that solenoid type relays are usually used in high current applications.

Solenoids can also be used as a mechanical actuator. Electric chokes on outboard motors often use a solenoid to pull the linkage. I believe the flippers on pinball machines are often actuated by a solenoid.

Aren't you glad you asked?