9 Ways to Start a Dirtbike
Introduction:
Starting a dirtbike may seem like a daunting task for beginners, but with the right knowledge and some practice, you’ll be riding like a pro in no time. In this article, we will outline nine different ways to start your dirtbike, ensuring that you find the method that works best for you and your bike.
1.Using the Electric Starter (E-Start):
The most common and easiest way to start a modern dirtbike is by using its electric starter. Simply turn on the ignition, make sure it’s in neutral, and press the electric start button. The engine should fire up immediately. Remember to release the button as soon as the engine starts, as prolonged engagement can damage the starter.
2.Kicking It Into Life (Kickstarter):
For those with dirtbikes that have a Kickstarter, this classic method is still very popular. To use the Kickstarter, put your bike on a stand or hold it upright with one hand. Ensure that it’s in neutral and kick down on the Kickstarter with your foot. A couple of solid kicks should start your bike up.
3.Bump Starting (Push Start):
Bump starting is used when your bike needs an extra boost from another person or if your battery is dead. Make sure your bike is in second or third gear, pull in the clutch lever and have someone push you from behind. Once you gain enough momentum, release the clutch lever quickly to engage the gear and kickstart the engine.
4.Jump Starting:
Jump starting requires connecting jumper cables from a working bike’s battery to your bike’s dead battery. Ensure both bikes are off before connecting cables – positive to positive and negative to negative terminals. Turn on both bikes’ ignition keys; then use the working bike’s E-start button to start both bikes simultaneously.
5.Compression Starting:
This technique involves relieving cylinder pressure for a smoother start. Push down the Kickstarter until it becomes hard to move – this is the compression stroke. Pull in the clutch lever and push down the Kickstarter another inch or two to slightly pass the compression stroke. Release the clutch lever, and give the Kickstarter a swift kick. Your dirtbike should start instantly.
6.”Pop Starting” With a Downhill Slope:
Find a downhill slope to coast down. Put your bike into second gear and sit on it while holding in the clutch lever. As you roll downhill, release the clutch lever quickly to engage the gear, which should cause your bike to start up.
7.Cold Starting:
In cold weather, engines can be more challenging to start. Use a choke lever to allow more fuel into the engine for easier starts. Once your bike starts and warms up, you can turn the choke off.
8.Utilizing Auxiliary Fuel Sources:
If your fuel supply isn’t reaching your bike’s engine, use an auxiliary fuel source like quick starting fluid sprayed into the airbox or directly into the carburetor (not recommended for fuel-injected bikes). Once you have sprayed an appropriate amount of fluid, try kickstarting or using the E-Start button.
9.Preventative Maintenance:
Lastly, staying on top of routine maintenance can prevent starting issues altogether. Ensure that your battery is charged, spark plugs are in good condition, and fuel lines are clean and free of obstructions.
Conclusion:
These nine methods will make starting your dirtbike easier, ensuring enjoyable off-road adventures without annoying interruptions from a stalled engine. Learn how to start your dirtbike using these techniques so you can focus on mastering your off-road riding skills instead!