'04 SM450R shift position sensor question

UPDATE Question: Would a defective shift position sensor keep bike from starting? I put a meter on the single lead wire coming from it and the other to ground- I get no continuity either in neutral or any gear selected?
I did find this- it says even if gear shift sensor is bad ,cdi will still allpow operation of vehicle:
"In the C.D.I. system the electrical energy generated by the alternator charges the condenser. The energy is released in a single surge at the specified ignition timing and the current flows through the primary side of the ignition coil. A high voltage is induced in the secondary windings of the ignition coil, resulting a strong spark between the ignition spark plug gap. The digital electronic ignition allows to change the timing curve according with the following items: - ENGINE r.p.m.; - CARBURETOR THROTTLE VALVE POSITION SENSOR; - ENGAGED GEAR. This system allows to optimize the engine performances in every condition of employment. In case of throttle valve or transmission gear failure, the ignition is able to allow the use of the motorcycle however."
Since everything else checks out, it sounds if condenser could be bad but I can't find a way to test condenser

I have a defective gear sensor and bike does start/work.
I had a starting problem . . . no spark. It was the woodruff key! It took some time for me to figure that out.
Good Luck