What could be the issue if a motorcycle won't start with electric ignition but can be kick-started?
1 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.