Motorcycle Push Starting: Get Back on the Road

Riding your motorcycle is a fantastic experience, but a dead battery can quickly put a dampener on your plans. Fortunately, not all hope is lost when your bike refuses to fire up. Beyond the traditional jump start, there's a tried-and-true method known as a push start, also referred to as a bump start, roll start, or pop start. This technique uses the momentum of the rolling motorcycle to turn over the engine, hopefully bringing it back to life. It's a skill every rider should have in their arsenal, especially for those spontaneous rides. This article will guide you through the process, from initial checks to the final successful start, ensuring you can get back on the road with confidence.

Before You Push: Essential Checks

It's all too common to waste precious time attempting a push start only to discover a simple oversight. Before you resort to rolling your bike, take a moment to run through these crucial checks. These are the usual culprits for a motorcycle refusing to start: * Ignition Kill Switch: This is a vital safety feature. Ensure the kill switch isn't accidentally in the 'STOP' or 'OFF' position. It's wired in series with the ignition, meaning if it's off, the bike won't start. * Fuel Level: It sounds obvious, but it happens! Double-check your fuel gauge. If you suspect it might be faulty, pop open the fuel cap and visually confirm there's sufficient fuel in the tank. Running out of petrol is a common reason for a bike not starting. * Fuel Petcock (Non-EFI Bikes): For carbureted motorcycles, the fuel tap, or petcock, needs to be in the correct position. Ensure it's not set to 'OFF'. The common positions are 'ON', 'RES' (Reserve), and 'OFF'. * Kickstand: Most modern motorcycles have a safety interlock that prevents starting if the kickstand is down and the bike is in gear. Make sure your kickstand is fully retracted before attempting to start. * Gear Selection: Always ensure your motorcycle is in neutral before attempting to start it, whether via the ignition or a push start. The indicator light on your dashboard should confirm this. If, after performing these checks, your motorcycle still refuses to start, it's time to consider the push start.

The Art of the Push Start: A Step-by-Step Guide

Push starting a motorcycle is fundamentally similar to push starting a car. The core principle is to use the momentum of the rolling bike to turn the engine over. Here's how to do it effectively: Step 1: Find the Right SpotThe ideal scenario for a push start is a gentle slope. Gravity will do a lot of the hard work for you, requiring less physical effort. If you're on a flat surface, you'll need a bit more determination and potentially a friend to help push. Aim for a location with enough space to get the bike rolling safely. Step 2: Select the Correct GearThis is a critical step often overlooked, leading to frustration. For push starting, second or third gear is generally recommended. Why not first gear? Using first gear, especially with a high-compression engine, can be too abrupt. The gear ratio is such that it can cause the rear wheel to lock up, making it difficult to get the engine to turn over and potentially damaging the gearbox or tyre. * Avoid First Gear: It's too aggressive and can lead to wheel lock-up. * Second or Third Gear: Offers a smoother engagement and a better chance of success. Step 3: Get Rolling and Engage the ClutchOnce you've selected second or third gear, pull in the clutch lever and hold it. If you're on a hill, start rolling down. If you're on the flat, begin pushing the motorcycle at a brisk walking pace. You're aiming for a speed that provides enough momentum to turn the engine over without being excessively fast or dangerous. * Hill Start: Gently release the clutch as you roll downhill. * Flat Start: Push the bike to a steady, jogging pace. Once you reach a good rolling speed, mount the bike (if you aren't already on it) and prepare to release the clutch. Step 4: Release the Clutch to Start the EngineThis is the moment of truth. With the bike rolling at a decent pace and the clutch lever still held in, smoothly release the clutch. The spinning rear wheel will now transfer its momentum to the engine's crankshaft, turning it over. You might also want to give it a little throttle as you release the clutch to help the engine catch. * Smooth Release: Avoid dumping the clutch abruptly. * Throttle Control: A small amount of throttle can aid the process. If the engine doesn't start on the first attempt, don't be discouraged. You may need to repeat steps 2 through 4. Try a slightly faster pace or a smoother clutch release. It often takes a few tries. Step 5: Once Started - Get the Engine RunningCongratulations, the engine is running! Now, immediately pull the clutch lever back in and shift the bike into neutral. Rev the engine gently. Keeping the engine running is crucial to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. It's a good idea to keep the throttle slightly open to maintain a healthy RPM range, preventing the engine from stalling again, especially if it's cold. * Neutral: Shift into neutral as soon as the engine fires. * Warm Up: Gently rev the engine to a low-to-mid RPM range to charge the battery and warm it up. Step 6: Ride and AssessOnce the engine feels stable and is running smoothly, you can take your motorcycle for a short ride. This allows the alternator to continue charging the battery and ensures everything is functioning correctly. During this short ride, perform your usual pre-ride checks to make sure all systems are go.

Common Reasons for a Dead Battery

Understanding why your battery died in the first place can help prevent future occurrences: * Lights Left On: Forgetting to turn off the headlights or other electrical accessories is a common oversight. * Old Battery: Batteries have a finite lifespan. If your battery is several years old, it might be nearing the end of its service life and may not hold a charge effectively. * Fouled Spark Plugs: While not directly a battery issue, fouled spark plugs can make the engine harder to start, putting more strain on the battery. * Fuel Pump Issues: A failing fuel pump can also contribute to starting problems, although this is less common than battery-related issues.

Helpful Tips for a Smoother Push Start

• Larger Displacement Engines: For bikes with larger engines, you might try hitting the starter button momentarily as you release the clutch. This can give the starter motor a little extra push.
• Older Motorcycles & Choke: If you're dealing with an older, carbureted bike, using the choke can be beneficial. It enriches the fuel mixture, which is often necessary for a cold engine to start.
• Weight Distribution: For high-compression engines, standing on the footpegs as the bike rolls can help put more weight onto the rear wheel, giving it more traction and making it easier for the wheel to turn the engine.
• Ignition ON: It sounds simple, but always double-check that the ignition is indeed in the 'ON' position. It's easy to overlook.
  

  Conclusion

Push starting a motorcycle is a valuable skill that can save you from being stranded. By understanding the steps, performing the necessary checks, and employing the right techniques, you can successfully push start your bike and get back to enjoying the ride. Remember to be patient, and don't be afraid to try a few times if it doesn't work immediately. With a little practice, you'll be a push-start pro in no time!

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