And so you decided to start your motorcycle; if the vehicle is in good condition, you shouldn't encounter any difficulties. Read on for the elementary instructions in this article to learn how to do it!
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Assess the Situation
Step 1. Determine if the bike has a carburetor or an injection
Many models, especially the older and cheaper ones, do not have modern injection engines. If in doubt, you can draw your own conclusions by looking at the choke lever, which is typically found on the left handlebar, above the horn. Carburetor motorcycles are equipped with this lever, injection ones do not.
Step 2. Saddle up when you start the bike
This way you have complete control of the vehicle once the engine is running. If for any reason you have to proceed without sitting on the bike, make sure the gear is in neutral (between first and second) before pressing the ignition; you certainly don't want the bike to move without you!
Step 3. Make sure it is in perfect condition
The tank should contain a good amount of gasoline and the battery should be well charged; it is important to ensure good maintenance, especially in humid or cold climates. Replace the spark plugs or, if they are not worn, clean them and check the gap; also check the advance and modify it if necessary. If they are present, also replace the pins; Finally, it is worthwhile to inspect and clean the carburetor as well.
If they are old, worn, or frayed, replace the spark plug leads; use only those recommended by the manufacturer and consult the vehicle manual
Step 4. Inspect the oil level
Before starting any engine, you must verify that it is lubricated by checking this detail; if there is no oil or the quantity is insufficient, do not start the motorcycle, otherwise the engine may overheat and break.
Step 5. Check the battery
Insert the key and turn it clockwise until the lights come on; if nothing happens, it means that the battery is completely discharged and you need to replace or recharge it.
Method 2 of 3: Start a Carburetor Motorcycle
Step 1. Look for the "starter" control or the shutdown switch
When you start the motorcycle cold, you must operate this lever which is located on the left handlebar; in some models it is mounted directly on the carburetor. By managing such a device, you can enrich the mixture that reaches the cold engine - when it has been turned off for more than a few hours. The dirtier the carburetor or the colder the engine, the more you have to work with this lever.
- It is not necessary to act on the choke when the engine is hot. If you have recently used the bike and the engine is still warm, you don't need a lot of power to start it again; just turn the throttle slightly and the vehicle should start up.
- Many motorcycles are equipped with a safety sensor mounted on the stand that prevents ignition; therefore make sure that this is raised, since sometimes keeping the gear in neutral deactivates this sensor.
Step 2. Open the choke lever
Make sure the shutdown switch is in the "on" position. You must leave the throttle grip in the closed position while pressing the ignition button or pedal; if you don't, you risk "flooding" the engine making starting impossible or difficult. Remember that if the motorcycle has been shut down for a few hours, it is generally not necessary to use the choke control.
Step 3. Turn the ignition switch to the "on" position
The dashboard lights should come on; if present, you should also notice a green light indicating neutral gear.
Step 4. Start the engine
Pull and hold the clutch lever (on the left handlebar) in this position while pushing the start button (on the right handlebar); you should hear the pleasant sound of the engine starting.
Step 5. Close the choke lever and open the throttle a little
After a short time after starting, gradually close this control and accelerate slightly as the engine warms up. You may need to keep it active for a while as you drive a few miles, but make sure you close it as soon as possible for a smooth ride; avoids over-revving the engine in the warm-up phase.
Method 3 of 3: Start an Injection Motorcycle
Step 1. Engage neutral gear
Typically, it is located between the first and second.
Step 2. Don't worry about the choke lever
In injection models, the engine management system automatically adjusts the fuel requirement based on the engine temperature; in fact, there is no such lever. Just twist the throttle a little bit when starting a cold or hot motorcycle.
Step 3. Pull the clutch lever towards the handlebar
It is usually located on the left side; many motorcyclists decide to operate the front brake (on the right handlebar) at the same time.
Step 4. Press and hold the start button
It is usually placed on the right handlebar, downwards, where the hand rests naturally.
Step 5. Try using the accelerator
If the engine does not start, you can give it some gas while pressing the ignition button; make sure the clutch lever is always pulled during this step.
