So I've gone through a search of the forum and am guessing its probably a loose primary chain (I will check/adjust it as soon as I'm near my tools), but I wanted to post a more specific description of my issue to get some more opinions.
I have a 2006 Electra X and recently when I try to start it in neutral (using the electric start) it sounds like the starter is spinning freely sometimes, so then I roll the bike a bit and try again, it sounds like it wants to start, accompanied by a grinding noise, but often switches back to the free spinning starter sound.
I have better luck starting it while in first gear. However it also makes the grinding noise, sometimes lapses into the free spinning starter, and sometimes even with the clutch lever all the way in the bike pulls forward like first gear is engaged while the engine begins to fire (I have to stop the bike pulling forward with my legs).
Eventually I get the bike running, but pretty much always by starting in first gear. I have two admissions that might contribute to this problem: 1) I took a motorcycle safety course where the instructor insisted we were always in first whenever stopped (later to find out this is bad for Enfields) 2) I ALWAYS use the electric start.
Thank you for any responses