Just my opinion here but that does not sound like the activation switch sticking Bob, it sounds like the fork locking mechanism is sticking. This is actually quite common, especially on bikes that the fork lock is not regularly used and gets full of road grime; then on the unusual occasion when you do try to use it, it sticks.
The fork lock is basically a shot- pin that moves down and gets in the way of the lower triple clamp. Take a good light and look under the front fairing on the left side of the frame and you should be able to see the actual locking mechanism. I would suggest cleaning it with some type of spray solvent, being careful not to use one too aggressive and cover all painted parts on the front of the bike before using it. Then after the solvent dries, spray the entire mechanism, from both the top and bottom (as best you can) with a dry lube such as silicone spray. That should help a lot but eventually the mechanism will again get sticky if not used regularly.
That is the other way to deal with the issue: use the fork locks all the time and they should not get clogged with grime in the first place. Unfortunately the way you describe using yours is exactly how most of us use ours- only very occasionally. I do not think I have ever actually used mine but then again, I figure if someone wants to push my C-14 any distance, especially up a ramp, and then replace the entire KiPass system to get it started they actually worked hard enough to sort of, kind of, 'earn' it or at least a couple of rides on it 'till they get caught....
Brian
Brian,
After just finishing reading all 16 pages of the thread, I kept reading where several folks asked the question about when (what year) Kaw started putting the stiffer springs in.
Mine is a 2011 model. While mine has never stuck, (yet...) it has scared me every time (3 now) I've tried to set the switch to lock the forks (switch turned far left with forks turned left.)
All 3 times, it did not want to release afterwards! Talk about being stranded! All you could do is turn a very tight circle, making for a very short trip! Lol...
After a lot of effort, it finally released. One time, after it released, the stove knob literally turned all the way around 360 degrees! I thought sure something had broken, but it didn't.
So, needless to say, I don't use the steering lock feature anymore.
Suggestions of what could be wrong? Anyone else experience this?
But, my 2011's Kipass has never stuck. 46,000 miles now.
Don't know if that means by 2011 they went to the stiffer spring, or if I've just been lucky...?
Bob