How To Convert An Electric Start Dirt Bike To A Kick Start

Are you tired of being dependent on an electric start for your dirt bike? Yearning for the old-school charm and simplicity of a kick start? Well, look no further!

In this article, I’ll show you how to convert your electric start dirt bike into a kick start powerhouse. Get ready to relish the freedom of manual ignition as we delve into the precise steps, tools, and adjustments required to complete this technical transformation.

Let’s kick it up a notch!

Key Takeaways

• Assess the bike’s compatibility for kick start conversion, considering the engine, transmission system, and available space on the frame.
• Disconnect and remove the electric start system, including the battery and associated components.
• Carefully install the kick start mechanism, securely attaching the kick start lever to the engine’s kick start shaft.
• Adjust, test, and fine-tune the kick start system, ensuring proper timing, carburetor adjustment, and smooth engagement of the kick start gear.

Assess Your Bike’s Compatibility

You’ll need to assess if your bike is compatible for a kick start conversion.

There are several compatibility factors to consider before proceeding with the conversion.

Firstly, check if your bike’s engine has a kick start mechanism already installed. Some electric start dirt bikes may not have this feature, making it difficult to convert.

Additionally, examine the transmission system to ensure it can accommodate a kick start. The clutch assembly and gears need to be compatible with the kick start mechanism.

Another important factor is the space available on your bike’s frame. The kick start lever requires a certain amount of clearance to function properly.

Once you have assessed the compatibility of your bike, you can move on to gathering the necessary tools and parts for the conversion process.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts

To complete this task, make sure you have all the required tools and parts.

Converting an electric start dirt bike to a kick start can be a rewarding but challenging project. Before diving in, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of kick starting a dirt bike.

One advantage is that kick starting eliminates the need for a battery, making the bike lighter and more maneuverable. However, kick starting requires physical effort and can be difficult for some riders, especially in cold weather. Additionally, kick start issues can arise, so it’s essential to have some troubleshooting tips up your sleeve.

Now that you understand the advantages and potential challenges, let’s move on to preparing your bike for conversion.

Prepare Your Bike for Conversion

In preparing my bike for conversion, the first step is to disconnect the electric start system. This involves carefully disconnecting the wiring and removing any connections related to the electric start.

Once the system is disconnected, I proceed to remove any electric start components, such as the starter motor and the starter relay.

Disconnect the Electric Start System

First, disconnect the electric start system by removing the battery and disconnecting any wires connected to the starter motor. This is the first step to remove the electric start and replace it with a kick start on your dirt bike.

Start by locating the battery, usually located under the seat or in a side compartment. Remove the battery by unscrewing the terminals and lifting it out of its housing.

Next, locate the wires connected to the starter motor. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nuts or bolts holding the wires in place, and carefully disconnect them.

Once the battery and wires are disconnected, you can proceed to remove any electric start components. This will ensure a smooth transition to the kick start system.

Remove any Electric Start Components

After disconnecting the electric start system, proceed to remove any components related to it. This step is crucial to ensure a successful conversion from electric start to kick start. Here are three items to consider when removing these components:

1. Assessing compatibility: Before removing any components, it is important to check if the dirt bike is compatible with a kick start mechanism. Some dirt bikes may not have the necessary mounting points or space for a kick start assembly.

2. Troubleshooting kick start issues: Take this opportunity to inspect the kick start mechanism for any issues or damage. Make sure all the necessary parts, such as the kick start lever and gears, are in good working condition.

3. Removing electric start components: Carefully remove the electric start components, such as the starter motor, battery, and wiring harness. Be sure to label and organize all removed parts for future reference or in case you decide to revert back to electric start.

With the electric start components removed, we can now move on to the next step of installing the kick start mechanism.

Install the Kick Start Mechanism

To install the kick start mechanism, you’ll need to carefully remove the electric start components. This process may present potential challenges, such as locating and disconnecting the wiring harness, removing the starter motor, and uninstalling the electric start button. It is important to exercise caution when handling electrical components and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you encounter any difficulties, refer to the dirt bike’s service manual or seek assistance from a professional mechanic.

Once you have successfully removed the electric start components, you can proceed with installing the kick start mechanism. This involves attaching the kick start lever to the engine’s kick start shaft and ensuring it is securely fastened.

After completing this step, you can move on to adjusting the timing and compression for optimal performance.

Adjust the Timing and Compression

You’ll need to make sure the timing and compression are properly adjusted for optimal performance. Adjusting the timing is crucial to ensure that the spark plug fires at the right moment, allowing for efficient combustion. This can be done by loosening the magneto stator plate and rotating it slightly in the desired direction. It’s important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the correct timing settings for your specific dirt bike model.

In addition to timing, adjusting the carburetor is essential for smooth and consistent engine operation. The carburetor regulates the air-fuel mixture, and if it’s not properly adjusted, it can cause issues such as poor acceleration, stalling, or excessive fuel consumption. Troubleshooting common carburetor issues, such as clogged jets or incorrect idle speed, can help ensure optimal performance.

Once the timing and carburetor adjustments are complete, you can proceed to test the kick start system.

Test the Kick Start System

Testing the kick start system is essential to ensure its proper functioning. To troubleshoot common kick start issues, start by checking the kick start lever for any damage or signs of wear. Make sure it moves smoothly without any resistance.

Next, inspect the kick start gear and make sure it engages with the engine’s gear properly. If there are any issues, such as teeth missing or misalignment, they should be addressed immediately. Additionally, check the kick start spring to ensure it’s not worn out or stretched.

Finally, test the kick start by giving it a firm kick and observing if the engine starts smoothly. It’s important to note the benefits of kick starting over electric start, including the reliability in remote areas and the reduced reliance on electrical components.

In the next section, we will discuss how to fine-tune the kick start system for optimal performance.

Fine-tune the Kick Start System

Fine-tuning the kick start system involves making small adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Troubleshooting common issues is an important part of this process. One common issue is the kick start lever not engaging smoothly. To address this, check for any obstructions or misalignment in the kick start mechanism. Additionally, ensure that the kick start spring is properly tensioned. Another issue could be the kick start lever not returning to its starting position after use. This can be resolved by lubricating the kick start pivot and ensuring it moves freely.

The advantages of a kick start system are its simplicity and reliability. Unlike an electric start system, a kick start requires no battery or electrical components, reducing the risk of failure. Additionally, a kick start can be used in situations where the battery is dead or the electrical system is malfunctioning.

Next, we will practice using the kick start to start the dirt bike without relying on the electric start system.

Practice Using the Kick Start

To practice using the kick start, simply follow these steps:

• Ensure that the bike is in neutral and the ignition is turned on.
• Firmly place your left foot on the ground for stability.
• With your right foot, push down on the kick start lever with a smooth and controlled motion.

If the kick start doesn’t engage, try giving it a harder kick or adjusting the position of your foot.

• Once the engine starts, quickly pull your foot off the kick start to avoid any potential injuries.
• To improve your kick start technique, practice using different amounts of force and experimenting with the angle of your foot.
• If you encounter any issues, such as the kick start getting stuck or the engine not starting, refer to the troubleshooting section.

Now, let’s move on to how to maintain and care for your kick start system.

Maintain and Care for Your Kick Start System

To maintain and care for my kick start system, I make sure to regularly clean and lubricate the mechanism. This helps prevent dirt or debris from interfering with smooth operation.

Additionally, I inspect the mechanism for signs of wear or damage, such as worn teeth or loose components. These issues can affect performance and reliability.

By staying vigilant and addressing any issues promptly, I can ensure that my kick start system remains in optimal condition for efficient starting of my dirt bike.

Regularly Clean and Lubricate the Kick Start Mechanism

Make sure you regularly clean and lubricate the kick start mechanism to keep it functioning smoothly. Cleaning techniques for the kick start mechanism involve removing any dirt, debris, or grime that may have accumulated over time. Use a soft brush or compressed air to gently clean the mechanism, ensuring that all parts are free from any obstructions. Lubrication methods for the kick start mechanism include applying a high-quality lubricant to the moving parts. This helps to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Be sure to use a lubricant specifically designed for motorcycle kick start mechanisms. After cleaning and lubricating, carefully inspect the mechanism for any signs of wear or damage. This will help you identify any issues that may require further attention. Transitioning into the next section, it is important to regularly inspect the kick start mechanism for optimal performance.

Inspect for Any Signs of Wear or Damage

Check for any indications of wear or damage in the kick start mechanism to ensure optimal performance. When inspecting for wear and damage, it is important to ask yourself, ‘Is my bike safe to convert?’

Here are some key points to consider:

• Inspecting for wear, damage: Check the kick start lever for any cracks or bends, as these can affect its functionality.
• Checking for signs of wear and tear: Look for any excessive play or looseness in the kick start mechanism, as this can indicate worn-out components.
• Ensuring a smooth kick start transition: Examine the kick start gears and springs for any signs of damage or excessive wear.

By thoroughly examining your kick start mechanism, you can address any potential issues before converting your electric start dirt bike. Enjoy the freedom of kick starting your dirt bike and experience the thrill of a manual start.

Enjoy the Freedom of Kick Starting Your Dirt Bike

Start enjoying the freedom of kick starting your dirt bike.

There are several advantages to kick starting compared to electric starting. First, kick starting eliminates the need for a battery or electrical system, making it more reliable in off-road conditions. Additionally, kick starting allows for quick and easy starting, without the need to wait for a battery to charge.

However, it is important to be aware of common issues that may arise with kick start systems. Some troubleshooting tips include ensuring the kick start lever is properly engaged, checking for any loose or damaged components, and verifying that the engine is in neutral.

By following these steps, you can confidently kick start your dirt bike and enjoy the freedom it brings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert any electric start dirt bike to a kick start?

Converting an electric start dirt bike to a kick start is possible for some models, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons. Kick start offers simplicity and reliability, but lacks convenience. Determining if it’s worth the conversion depends on personal preference and the specific bike.

How long does it usually take to convert an electric start dirt bike to a kick start?

Converting an electric start dirt bike to a kick start typically takes around 4-6 hours. Tools needed include a kick start lever, a kick start shaft, a kick start idler gear, and basic hand tools for disassembling and reassembling the bike.

What are some common challenges or difficulties encountered during the conversion process?

Common challenges and difficulties during the conversion process include: proper alignment of the kick start mechanism, potential issues with the clutch, and ensuring the engine timing is correct. Troubleshooting tips, necessary tools and equipment, and safety precautions are also important.

Can I still use the electric start feature after converting my dirt bike to a kick start?

Using a kick start on a dirt bike has both pros and cons. It offers a sense of control and reliability, but can be physically demanding. Proper maintenance includes lubricating and checking the kick start mechanism regularly to ensure smooth operation.

Are there any specific safety precautions or considerations I should keep in mind when using the kick start system?

When using the kick start system, it is important to follow proper technique to avoid injury. Ensure the bike is in neutral, stand with both feet on the ground, and use a swift, firm kick. Always wear appropriate safety gear and keep bystanders clear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting my electric start dirt bike to a kick start has been a challenging but rewarding process.

By assessing my bike’s compatibility and gathering the necessary tools and parts, I was able to successfully install the kick start mechanism.

Adjusting the timing and compression, as well as fine-tuning the kick start system, ensured optimal performance.

Now, I can enjoy the freedom of kick starting my dirt bike, evoking a sense of nostalgia and excitement every time I hit the trails.