[ALEX BERECZKY]

Reverse lever. Move it back and forth and see if the neutral light comes on, then start.
If that works the switch inside will need a cleaning/lube.

+1... typical problem.

Note that if you know what to 'feel' for, then you can actually "twang" that switch into submission without removing much tupperware: Remove the cover over the alternater (rider left knee), then reach up with your finger and feel for the sheet metal piece that is moved by the pulley-operated-by-the-reverse-lever... if you can twang that a few times, it typically caused the switch to come back to life, and the Nuetral light to come back on.

BTW, I firmly believe that ever 1500 owner should know how to do this!!!