If you’re a dirt bike rider, you’ve probably encountered a situation where your dirt bike won’t start. It could be a dead battery, a faulty starter, or any other mechanical issue. But don’t worry; you can always bump start your dirt bike to get it up and running again.
Bump starting a dirt bike is a technique used to start the engine by rolling the bike in gear and then releasing the clutch. This method uses the bike’s momentum to turn the engine, creating enough spark to ignite the fuel and start the engine. It is a handy skill that every dirt bike rider should know. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of bump starting a dirt bike.
Tools and Equipment Required
Before we dive into the steps of bump starting a dirt bike, let’s first look at the tools and equipment you’ll need.
- A helmet, gloves, and other protective gear to ensure your safety.
- A flat and open space to push your dirt bike.
- A healthy and fully charged battery, which will help with starting the bike after it’s been bump-started.
- The bike’s user manual, which will give you an idea of the bike’s specifications and instructions for starting it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Bump Start a Dirt Bike
Now, let’s get to the steps of bump starting a dirt bike.
Step 1: Position Your Dirt Bike
First, position your dirt bike on a flat and open surface. Turn off the fuel, put the bike in neutral, and engage the clutch. If your dirt bike has a kickstand, fold it up.
Step 2: Get the Bike Rolling
Stand beside your dirt bike and push it to get it rolling. You can use your feet to push the bike or ask someone to give you a push. Make sure to pick up speed while pushing the bike, so it gains momentum.
Step 3: Shift into Second Gear
Once the bike is rolling, shift into second gear. Some dirt bikes may require third gear, depending on their specifications.
Step 4: Release the Clutch
While still pushing the bike, release the clutch quickly. This should cause the bike to jerk and start the engine.
Step 5: Rev the Engine
As soon as the engine starts, rev the throttle a few times to ensure it’s running smoothly.
Step 6: Charge the Battery
Once your dirt bike is running, charge the battery by riding it around for some time. The battery will charge as the engine runs.
Tips for Bump Starting a Dirt Bike
Here are some tips to keep in mind when bump starting your dirt bike:
- Always wear protective gear to ensure your safety.
- Choose an open and flat surface to push the bike, as it’s easier to gain momentum.
- Make sure to shift into the right gear, as specified in your bike’s user manual.
- Release the clutch quickly to create a jerk and start the engine.
- Charge the battery after the engine starts by riding the bike for some time.
Final Thought
In conclusion, bump starting a dirt bike is a simple and handy technique that every dirt bike rider should know. With the right tools and equipment, you can easily bump start your dirt bike and get it up and running again. Just follow the steps we’ve outlined above, and you’ll be back on your dirt bike in no time.
FAQs
- Can bump starting damage my dirt bike’s engine?
No, bump starting your dirt bike won’t damage the engine, as long as you do it correctly. Make sure to follow the steps
outlined above and use the right gear specified in your bike’s user manual.
- What do I do if my dirt bike still won’t start after bump starting it?
If your dirt bike still won’t start after bump starting it, it could be a sign of a more significant problem. Check your battery and starter, spark plug, fuel, and other mechanical components to determine the root cause of the problem.
- Can I bump start my dirt bike on a hill?
Yes, you can bump start your dirt bike on a hill. In fact, it can be easier to gain momentum and bump start the engine while going downhill. Just make sure the hill isn’t too steep and you’re wearing protective gear to ensure your safety.
In summary, bump starting a dirt bike is a useful skill that every dirt bike rider should know. By following the steps outlined above and taking the necessary precautions, you can easily start your dirt bike without a battery or starter. Remember to wear protective gear, use the right gear specified in your bike’s user manual, and charge the battery after the engine starts.