When it comes to revving up your motorcycle and hitting the open road, knowing how to kick start your bike is an essential skill every rider should possess. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to the world of motorcycles, understanding the proper technique for kick starting can make a world of difference in your riding experience.
From vintage classics to modern bikes, kick starting is a timeless method that requires precision and finesse. By following a few simple steps and mastering the art of kick starting, you can ensure a smooth and efficient start every time you hop on your motorcycle.
How to Kick Start a Motorcycle
To kick start a motorcycle, follow these simple steps:
| Step 1: | Make sure the motorcycle is in neutral gear. |
| Step 2: | Turn the ignition key to the “on” position. |
| Step 3: | Locate the kick starter lever on the side of the motorcycle. |
| Step 4: | Stand on the kick starter lever with your foot. |
| Step 5: | With a firm push, kick down on the lever to start the engine. |
| Step 6: | If the engine does not start on the first try, repeat the process until it does. |
Check the fuel level
Before attempting to kick start your motorcycle, it is essential to check the fuel level in the tank. Without an adequate amount of fuel, your motorcycle will not start and you may run the risk of damaging the engine. Ensure that there is enough fuel in the tank by visually inspecting the fuel gauge or removing the fuel cap and using a flashlight to check the level.
Turn the fuel valve on
To start your motorcycle, make sure the fuel valve is turned on. The fuel valve controls the flow of gasoline from the tank to the engine, so it is important to have it open before attempting to start the bike. Locate the fuel valve near the base of the tank and ensure it is in the “on” position. If the valve has a lever, make sure it is parallel to the fuel line to allow fuel to flow freely. Once the fuel valve is turned on, you can proceed with starting the motorcycle.
Engage the choke
To start a motorcycle with a carbureted engine, you may need to engage the choke to provide a richer fuel mixture for easier starting, especially when the engine is cold. The choke restricts the airflow into the carburetor, causing the fuel mixture to become richer. This helps the engine start more easily by providing a higher concentration of fuel. When engaging the choke, make sure to follow the specific instructions outlined in your motorcycle’s manual to ensure proper operation.
| 1. | Locate the choke lever or knob on your motorcycle’s handlebars or near the carburetor. |
| 2. | With the engine off, adjust the choke to the “on” or “closed” position to engage it. |
| 3. | Start the motorcycle as usual, following the recommended starting procedure. |
| 4. | Once the engine is running smoothly and has warmed up, gradually adjust the choke back to the “off” or “open” position to allow more air into the carburetor for optimal performance. |
Put the bike in neutral
Before starting your motorcycle, make sure it is in neutral gear. This means that the gear shift lever is in the middle position, allowing the engine to run without the wheels engaging. To do this, simply shift the gear lever down repeatedly until you see an “N” on the dashboard display or neutral light indicator.
Putting your bike in neutral is crucial for starting it safely and smoothly. It prevents the bike from jumping forward unexpectedly when you start the engine. Remember to keep the bike in neutral until you are ready to shift into gear and begin riding.
Pull in the clutch lever
One essential step in kick starting a motorcycle is to pull in the clutch lever. This disengages the transmission from the engine, allowing you to start the motorcycle without it lurching forward. Make sure to firmly grip the clutch lever with your left hand and keep it fully pulled in while starting the motorcycle.
Find the kick starter lever
Locating the kick starter lever is the first step in kick starting your motorcycle. The kick starter lever is typically located on the right side of the motorcycle, near the foot peg. It may be tucked in close to the engine or it may stick out slightly, depending on the make and model of your motorcycle.
To stand on the kick starter lever, place your dominant foot on the lever while keeping your other foot firmly on the ground for balance. Make sure your motorcycle is in neutral before attempting to kick start it. Once you are in position, use your body weight to push the lever downwards in a swift and smooth motion. This action will engage the engine and start the motorcycle. Remember to keep your balance and be cautious of any unexpected movements as the engine starts.
Kick down firmly and smoothly
When starting a motorcycle using the kick start method, it’s crucial to kick down firmly and smoothly on the kick starter lever. Make sure to apply enough pressure to engage the engine, but do so in a controlled manner to avoid jerky movements that could lead to a stalled engine. By kicking down firmly and smoothly, you can efficiently start your motorcycle and get it running smoothly.
Repeat the process of kick starting the motorcycle if necessary. Sometimes the engine may not start on the first try, so simply repeat the steps outlined above until the motorcycle roars to life. Persistence is key when starting a motorcycle, so don’t give up easily.
Adjust the choke if the engine starts
If the engine starts but sputters or dies shortly after, you may need to adjust the choke. The choke is responsible for regulating the air flow into the engine during startup, and adjusting it can help the engine run smoothly. Start by locating the choke lever or knob on your motorcycle, usually found near the handlebars. If the engine starts but seems to struggle, try moving the choke to a slightly closed position to provide more fuel to the engine. Experiment with different choke positions until you find the optimal setting for a smooth idle. Remember to adjust the choke back to the normal position once the engine is warmed up to prevent it from running too rich.
Release the clutch gradually
One of the key elements in kick starting a motorcycle is releasing the clutch gradually. This allows for a smooth and controlled engagement of power to the rear wheel.
Enjoy your ride!
As you hit the open road, remember to cherish every moment of your ride. Feel the wind in your face, embrace the power of your machine, and let yourself be swept away by the thrill of the journey. Whether you’re cruising through scenic landscapes or revving up for a fast-paced adventure, make the most of every twist and turn. Ride safe, ride free, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!