Owning a motorcycle can be a fantastic experience, but encountering an issue such as a dead battery can be frustrating. Imagine this: you’re ready to hit the open road, the sun is shining, but your motorcycle refuses to start. Don’t despair! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of bump starting, a technique that allows you to bypass the battery and get your motorcycle running without the need for an external power source.
Before we dive into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the principles behind bump starting. Essentially, bump starting involves using the momentum of your rolling motorcycle to engage the engine and initiate combustion. This method can be particularly useful if you don’t have access to a jump starter or if your battery is completely depleted. However, it’s important to note that bump starting is not suitable for all motorcycles, and it’s always advisable to refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions. With the basics in mind, let’s proceed with the step-by-step guide on how to bump start your motorcycle.
To begin the bump-starting process, you’ll need some assistance from a friend or a sturdy object like a wall or tree. Position your motorcycle in a safe and open area with a slight decline. Engage the second gear on your transmission to provide optimal engine resistance for starting. Next, find a point on your motorcycle’s rear wheel where you can comfortably push. This could be the passenger footpeg or a designated push bar if your motorcycle has one. Instruct your friend to hold the motorcycle upright and steady while you prepare to push. Once everything is in place, take a deep breath and apply firm, steady pressure to the rear wheel. As you gain momentum, release the clutch lever and simultaneously apply slight throttle. If all goes according to plan, the engine should roar to life, and you’ll be ready to ride.
How to Bump Start a Motorcycle
Bump starting a motorcycle is a technique used to start a motorcycle without using the electric starter or kickstarter. It involves pushing the motorcycle in gear and then releasing the clutch to get the engine running.
Here are the steps on how to bump start a motorcycle:
- Safety first. Make sure you are wearing a helmet and have a spotter to help you.
- Find a slight downhill slope. This will make it easier to get the motorcycle moving.
- Put the motorcycle in second gear. This will give you the best chance of getting the engine started.
- Have your spotter hold the front brake. This will keep the motorcycle from rolling backwards.
- Start running and push the motorcycle. Aim to get the motorcycle moving at around 5-10 mph.
- Release the clutch. The engine should start running.
- Once the engine is running, apply the front brake and put the motorcycle in neutral.
People Also Ask About How To Bump Start Motorcycle
Can you bump start a motorcycle with the electric starter?
No, you cannot bump start a motorcycle with the electric starter. The electric starter is designed to start the engine using electrical power, not mechanical power.
Can you bump start a motorcycle in neutral?
No, you cannot bump start a motorcycle in neutral. The motorcycle needs to be in gear in order for the engine to turn over.
How fast do you need to push a motorcycle to bump start it?
You need to push the motorcycle at around 5-10 mph to bump start it.
