Can a motorcycle be kick-started if the electric start doesn't work?
2 Answers
Motorcycle can be kick-started if the electric start doesn't work. Here is some knowledge about motorcycle starting: 1. Reasons why the electric start doesn't work: It may be due to insufficient battery power, which can be measured with a voltmeter; or the spark plug gap may be too large, excessive carbon buildup, or a faulty high-voltage cap connected to the spark plug. 2. Solutions: If the starter motor can turn the engine but the engine doesn't fire up during electric start, check the spark plug, high-voltage electricity, carburetor, air filter, exhaust pipe, cylinder pressure, valve timing, intake pipe, etc. There are many possibilities, each requiring professional inspection and repair by a qualified technician. It is recommended to take the motorcycle to an authorized service center or a motorcycle repair shop for proper handling.
Last month, my old motorcycle had the same issue—the electric start wouldn't work no matter what, but kicking it a couple of times got it going. Actually, most motorcycles are designed with a kick start as a backup for such situations. Especially in older models, a kick starter is pretty much standard. The principle is simple: kicking it mechanically turns the crankshaft directly, bypassing the electrical system. Electric starts, on the other hand, rely on the battery powering the starter motor—if the battery's dead or the starter relay is faulty, you're out of luck. So, if your electric start fails, don’t panic—try kicking it, and chances are it’ll save the day. However, some newer high-displacement bikes have ditched the kick start altogether, leaving you with no choice but to call a tow truck.
