Honda made changes to the CT in the 70's. Later models can be started with a dead battery. I know. I started my brother-in-laws 77 CT this winter. It had been sitting unstarted for four or five months. There were no lights when the key was turned on. With each kick, the headlight would flare to life a little...and after 20 or so cranks, the CT coughed to life and ran like it was plugged into high voltage lines! However, on my ct71, I have been told that it's design requires a charged battery to start. I know...bummer....but don't you gotta love the challenge?