How to bump start a bike

Published on March 14, 2023
Duration: 1:01

This video demonstrates the practical technique of bump starting a motorcycle with a dead battery, specifically a Honda CRF 150F. It covers the essential pre-start checklist, including ensuring the key is on, fuel is flowing, choke is engaged, and the bike is in first gear. The core technique involves using a downhill slope for momentum, releasing the clutch, and applying throttle to engage the engine.

Quick Summary

To bump start a motorcycle, ensure the key is on, fuel is flowing, choke is engaged, and it's in first gear. Use a downhill slope for momentum, then release the clutch while applying throttle to start the engine. Afterwards, let it warm up and ride to recharge the battery.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Bump Starting
  2. 00:15Pre-Start Checklist
  3. 00:37The Bump Start Technique
  4. 00:51Post-Start Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential steps before attempting to bump start a motorcycle?

Before attempting a bump start, ensure the motorcycle's key is in the 'on' position, the fuel valve is open, the choke is engaged (pulled up), and the transmission is shifted into first gear. Using a hill for momentum is also highly recommended.

How do you perform the actual bump start technique on a motorcycle?

To bump start, hold the clutch in while getting a running start down a hill. Once sufficient momentum is built, jump onto the bike to add weight to the rear tire, simultaneously release the clutch, and apply throttle to start the engine.

What should be done after successfully bump starting a motorcycle?

After the engine starts, let it run and warm up. Riding the motorcycle will allow its internal charging system to work and replenish the battery that was previously dead.

Can you bump start a motorcycle without a hill?

While a hill makes it significantly easier, it's possible to bump start on flat ground with assistance from another person pushing or by using a very steep incline. The key is generating enough rotational speed for the engine to fire.

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