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How to Push Start a Motorcycle

Posted on March 19th, 2009 by Paul
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People ride motorcycles since it moves continually, even in heavy traffic. With careful turns, you can fit into tight spots and run on the sidewalks, passing by piles of vehicles caught behind the stop sign. Such movement is one of the distinct advantages of the motorcycle, but what would you do if that movement is halted by engine failure? Simple, just push start your motorcycle.

Push Start Overview

A push start or compression start can be performed on all types of motor vehicles, including motorcycles. The key is to apply the right settings on your bike before pushing it, preferably downhill or down an inclined area. If you have trouble jerking the bike forward, you can ask a friend to help you until you reach the optimum speed. Once the engine sputters to life, you’re in business.

Procedure:

  1. Switch on your motorcycle. Leave it on even if it does not start.

    2. push start a motorcycle

  2. Set the gear to neutral, which prompts the bike for the push start.
  3. Check if fuel is supplied to the engine. Even if your fuel meter shows an empty gas tank, sometimes some fuel is retained, enough to power the engine.
  4. Push the bike until you find a downhill area. If you can’t find one, ask a friend to help you push the motorcycle. Your target is to travel at nearly 10 mph, which is enough to start the engine.
  5. Ride the bike then set it to first gear. Remember, you should release the clutch abruptly. The engine will start if you pull this step of correctly.
  6. When the engine starts, hold the clutch and hit the gas to keep the motorcycle from jerking forward.
  7. Return the gear to neutral, so you can stabilize the running motor.
  8. Slip into first gear and ride the motorcycle home, to a gas station or to the nearest repair shop.

When doing a push start, don’t forget to wear a helmet. There is a chance for the motorcycle to suddenly move forward, which may throw the rider off the motorcycle. If you’re not adept at riding, you’re better off having your motorcycle towed. It may be convenient, but it guarantees your safety. Riders, unlike their motorcycles, can’t be revived by a push start, once their biological motor stops running.

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    Comments

    1. Marc Madson said,

      on March 28th, 2009 at 7:04 am

      Not very helpful. Motorcycles don’t move continually. I have four that are just sitting still on their kickstands. You can’t ride on sidewalks; it is illegal. And most important; if your motorcycle’s forward movement is halted by engine failure you can’t push start the bike, you can only push. Compression starting only works if there is battery/ wiring or starter failure. All the other systems must be in working order. Because most motorcycles have high compression engines it’s better to bump start in second gear, not first. This will help you to overcome the tire’s tendency to slide by choosing a higher gear. It is also helpful to jump on the bike/ put extra down force pressure on the seat at the same time you are popping the clutch to add extra down force to also prevent tire slippage.

    2. Mark said,

      on March 27th, 2009 at 1:19 am

      very helpful site !
      many thanks