You must be referring to the kill switch. However, it shouldn't have to be held down. It should be a standard switch on or off.....
You are correct Bodeen. It
is the kill switch. I guess because I am in the habit of always shutting my bike off with that switch I have to turn it on to start it. It is during that time that I see red light icon on my gauge, and wait for it to go off before I hit the start button.