What could be the issue if a motorcycle won't start with electric ignition but can be kick-started?
3 Answers
If a motorcycle fails to start with electric ignition but can be kick-started, it indicates a problem with the motorcycle's battery, or possibly insufficient cylinder pressure due to cold weather causing degraded engine oil performance. Using kick-start: In winter when temperatures are low, starting difficulties are common. In such cases, adjust the choke (also known as the cold start lever). Under normal conditions, it should be fully depressed. For cold starts in winter, pull it to the topmost position. After the engine starts, move it to the middle position within about 15 seconds. Once the vehicle completes warm-up, return it to the normal state – fully depressed. This entire process typically takes three to five minutes. Idling issues: Sometimes starting failure is caused by low idle speed. In summer, the normal idle speed should show the tachometer needle at one mark or slightly more. In winter, adjust it to between one and a half to two marks. Spark plug issues: Simply replace it. Sometimes fuel can flood the spark plug ("wet fouling"). Check if the spark plug tip is oily or wet, as this can also prevent ignition.
I had the same issue with my motorcycle before. When I turned the key to start it, nothing happened, but it would fire right up with a kick. I figured it was mainly due to a weak battery because the electric starter relies on battery power. If the voltage is low or the battery is nearly dead, it can't generate enough electricity to start the engine. It could also be a faulty starter motor—that little device is responsible for turning the engine over, and if it's broken, it just gets stuck and won't move. Another possibility is poor contact in the starter button, like loose or oxidized wiring, which interrupts the current. Rusty battery terminals make things worse, especially in cold weather. My suggestion is to first check the battery condition: measure the voltage or try a charger. If it still won't start after a full charge, inspect the wiring connections and clean the terminals with a cloth. If all else fails, you might need to replace the starter motor, but minor issues can often be fixed yourself to save money. Addressing it promptly is key—otherwise, you risk breaking down on the road, which can be dangerous.
From the perspective of motorcycle structure, the electric starting system relies on a complete circuit loop: the battery supplies power to the starter motor, which is then operated through a relay and control switch. If kick-starting works, it indicates that the ignition system itself is functioning properly, and the issue lies upstream in the circuit. Common causes include a depleted battery unable to provide sufficient current, burnt relay contacts causing poor connection, or internal wear in the starter switch leading to an open circuit. Check the battery terminals and wiring connections for corrosion, and use a multimeter to measure the voltage, which should normally be above 12 volts. If insufficient, try charging or replacing the battery. Avoid neglecting this issue, as prolonged reliance on kick-starting may wear out engine components and increase repair costs. Simple maintenance, such as regularly cleaning circuit connection points, can prevent such problems.
