How To Bump Start A Dirt Bike

If you’re an avid dirt bike rider, you’re probably familiar with the frustration of a dead battery or a faulty starter.

But fear not, because bump starting is a technique that can help you get your bike back on the road.

Also known as push-starting, bump starting involves getting your bike rolling and using the momentum to start the engine without relying on the battery or starter.

In this article, we’ll take you through the steps you need to follow to bump-start your dirt bike like a pro.

Before we dive into the process of bump starting, it’s important to ensure that your bike is in good condition.

Check the battery, spark plug, and fuel supply to make sure they’re all functioning properly.

Make sure your bike is in neutral and the ignition is turned on.

If you have a kick starter, give it a try before attempting to bump start.

If none of these options work, bump starting is your next best bet.

So, find a suitable location, get your bike rolling, and let’s get started!

Check Your Bike’s Condition

You gotta make sure your bike’s in good shape before you even think about trying to bump start it, or you could end up stranded and frustrated.

The first thing you want to do is inspect your bike’s parts to make sure everything is in good working order.

Check your tires to make sure they’re properly inflated and have enough tread.

Make sure your chain is properly lubricated and tightened, and check your brakes to make sure they’re working properly.

Another important step in ensuring your bike is in good condition is regular maintenance.

This includes changing the oil, checking the air filter, and making sure all bolts and screws are tight.

It’s also important to regularly clean your bike to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime.

Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to preventable breakdowns and issues that could hinder your ability to bump start your bike.

To further prepare your bike for a bump start, you may want to consider investing in a kickstand sensor bypass or other aftermarket parts that can help improve the bump start process.

However, it’s important to note that these modifications should only be done by a professional or experienced mechanic to avoid any potential safety hazards.

Following these steps can help ensure that your bike is in the best possible condition for a successful bump start.

Find a Suitable Location

First, scout out a location that has enough open space and a slight downhill slope.

This will allow you to get enough speed to bump start your dirt bike.

Here are some things to keep in mind before choosing a location:

  • Make sure the ground is flat and clear of any obstacles or debris that could cause you to lose control.
  • Avoid areas with heavy traffic or pedestrians nearby.
  • Check if there are any local laws or regulations that prohibit dirt bikes in the area.
  • If you’re new to bump starting, it’s best to choose a location with a gentle slope to make it easier to get your bike moving.

Before attempting to bump start your dirt bike, it’s important to understand the benefits of this technique.

Bump starting can be a lifesaver when your battery is dead, or your starter motor is malfunctioning.

It’s a quick and easy way to get your bike up and running without needing any additional tools or equipment.

However, before you start bumping your bike, there are some precautions you should take.

Make sure your bike is in neutral and the clutch is pulled in.

Wear protective gear, including a helmet, gloves, and boots.

Check that the brakes and suspension are in good condition and that your bike is not leaking any fluids.

Finding a suitable location and taking the necessary precautions will help you safely and effectively bump-start your dirt bike.

Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper techniques when operating your bike.

Get Your Bike Rolling

To get your dirt bike rolling, put it in second gear, push it forward, and release the clutch.

First, shift your bike into second gear by pressing down on the shift pedal with your left foot while holding the clutch lever in with your left hand.

Next, stand to the side of your bike and push it forward until you gain enough momentum.

Finally, release the clutch lever to engage the engine and start riding.

Remember, make sure you are in a safe and open area before attempting to ride.

Put the Bike in the Second Gear

Gently rocking the bike back and forth, shift the gears until you feel the transmission click into second gear.

Once you are in second gear, make sure you have enough momentum to start the engine.

Here are some things to keep in mind when using second gear:

  • Benefits of using second gear: Second gear provides more torque than first gear, making it easier to start the engine.

    It also allows you to build up more speed before releasing the clutch, which can help prevent stalling.

  • Common mistakes to avoid while using second gear: One mistake many riders make is trying to start the engine in too high of a gear.

    This can cause the engine to stall and damage the transmission.

    Another mistake is not giving the bike enough momentum to start the engine.

    Make sure you have enough speed before releasing the clutch to avoid stalling.

Push the Bike Forward

“Now, you’re going to need to give it a little shove forward to get the engine going,” advises the experienced rider.

Before you start pushing, make sure that your body positioning is correct.

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your arms straight.

Lean forward slightly and put your weight onto the handlebars.

This will help you steer the bike and keep it balanced as you push it forward.

As you push the bike, remember to take safety precautions.

Keep your eyes on the path ahead and watch out for any obstacles.

Make sure that the bike is moving in a straight line and that you are not pushing it too fast.

Once you feel the engine start to turn over, hop onto the bike and give it a few twists of the throttle to get it going.

With a little practice, you’ll be bump-starting your dirt bike like a pro in no time.

Release the Clutch

Once you release the clutch, the adrenaline rush of riding a powerful machine kicks in, sending shivers down your spine.

But before you get carried away, make sure you release the clutch smoothly and gradually.

A sudden release of the clutch can cause the bike to stall, which can be frustrating and embarrassing.

To help you release the clutch properly, refer to the table below for common mistakes and troubleshooting tips.

Common MistakesTroubleshooting
Releasing the clutch too quicklyGradually release the clutch to avoid stalling the bike
Releasing the clutch too slowlyIncrease the throttle to prevent the bike from stalling
Not fully releasing the clutchPull the clutch lever in and release again before trying to bump start the bike

Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to bump-starting a dirt bike.

Take note of the common mistakes and troubleshooting tips on the table and keep practicing until you can smoothly bump-start your bike every time.

Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right, as even experienced riders sometimes struggle with bump starting their bikes.

With patience and persistence, you’ll soon be able to effortlessly release the clutch and enjoy the thrill of riding your dirt bike.

Start the Engine

To fire up the engine, simply hop on the bike and kickstart it with your leg.

Make sure the bike is neutral before you try to start it.

If the bike is in gear, it could lurch forward and cause an accident.

Also, make sure the kill switch is in the “on” position and the choke is engaged if the engine is cold.

If the bike doesn’t start on the first kick, don’t panic.

It’s common for dirt bikes to take a few kicks before the engine fires up.

However, if the bike still doesn’t start after several kicks, there may be a problem with the fuel or spark plug.

Check the fuel level and make sure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped.

If these items are in good working order, it may be time to take the bike to a mechanic for further troubleshooting.

One common mistake when kickstarting a dirt bike is not using enough force.

You need to put some muscle into it to get the engine to turn over.

Another mistake is not positioning your body correctly.

You should stand on the left side of the bike with your left hand on the clutch and your right foot on the kickstart lever.

Use your right leg to push down on the lever while lifting your body up with your left hand on the clutch.

With a little practice, kickstarting a dirt bike will become second nature.

Practice and Refine Your Technique

Practicing and refining your technique is essential in becoming proficient at kickstarting a dirt bike, so don’t hesitate to put in the time and effort.

The benefits of practicing cannot be overstated, as it helps you develop muscle memory and intuition that will serve you well in the long run.

By practicing regularly, you’ll find that you can start your bike faster and with less effort than before.

One of the most common mistakes to avoid when practicing is using too much force.

While it may seem like a good idea to give the bike a hard kick, doing so can actually make it harder to start.

Instead, focus on using a smooth and controlled motion, applying just enough force to turn the engine over.

Additionally, be sure to keep your body weight centered over the bike as you kick, as this will help you maintain your balance and avoid tipping over.

It’s important to be patient and persistent when practicing.

Bump starting a dirt bike can be a challenging skill to master, but with time and practice, you’ll get better and better.

Keep in mind that everyone starts somewhere, and don’t be discouraged if it takes you a while to get the hang of it.

With practice and determination, you’ll soon be able to start your dirt bike with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my dirt bike doesn’t start after bump starting it?

If your dirt bike doesn’t start after bump starting it, try these troubleshooting tips: Check the fuel and spark plug, ensure proper choke and throttle settings, and test the battery.

Alternative starting methods include kick-starting or using a jump starter.

Can a bump start a dirt bike and damage the engine?

Bump starting a dirt bike has both pros and cons.

While it can save you from a dead battery or faulty starter, it can also cause damage to the engine if not done correctly.

Follow a step-by-step guide to ensure proper technique.

Is it possible to bump-start a dirt bike on a hill?

Advantages of a hill start for bump starting a dirt bike include gravity and momentum.

Position the bike perpendicular to the slope, engage second gear, and release the clutch while pushing down the slope.

What gear should I have my dirt bike in when bump starting it?

For proper clutch engagement, shift into second or third gear and get your dirt bike moving at a brisk walking pace before releasing the clutch.

Correct RPM is crucial for success.

Advantages of bump starting include saving battery life and avoiding the physical strain of using a kick starter.

Can bump starting a dirt bike be dangerous for the rider?

Bump starting a dirt bike can be risky if not done properly.

Risks involved include losing control and injury from falls.

To minimize these risks, safety precautions such as wearing protective gear and ensuring a clear, level space should be taken.

Conclusion

You now know how to bump start a dirt bike like a pro.

Remember, before attempting to bump start your bike, always check its condition to ensure that it is in good working order.

Find a suitable location with enough space for you to roll your bike and avoid any obstacles.

Once you are ready, get your bike rolling and engage the clutch to start the engine.

Practice makes perfect, so take the time to refine your technique and become more proficient at bump-starting your dirt bike.

Remember to always wear protective gear and exercise caution when operating your bike.

With these tips and techniques, you can confidently bump-start your dirt bike and get back to riding in no time.

Happy riding!

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Written By Eric Miles

I am Eric Miles. I help riders of all ages and beginners understand how to improve their bike riding experience. I enjoy solving people’s problems.