Starting problems

I have a 2011 honda 420 rancher manual with electric cooling. Having starting problems like most do just trying to double check before I order parts. Turn key all lights come on like normal then turn off and only neutral light is on. Press starter switch and neutral light dims. No sounds no rattling and not turning over. Replaced battery and fixed some rather ghetto rigged wiring from previous owner, just cause it was bad and battery was leaking acid and it was old. Was not the problem just fixing it because it was wrong. But read somewhere that removing the wire from the solenoid to the starter was a good way to test the starter. Tried it and lights didn't dim when I had it off. Does that prove starter is bad?