Troubleshooting Guide: Electric Start Dirt Bike Issues

Electric start dirt bikes are a relatively new phenomenon, with manufacturers like Honda and Yamaha developing bikes with e-starters. Some people prefer electric starters because they are efficient and convenient, especially if you crash or stall on an incline. However, others argue that kick-starting systems are better because installing an e-starter can be time-consuming, costly, and adds weight to the bike. If you have an electric start dirt bike, there are a few simple steps to follow to get it going.

How to start an electric dirt bike

Electric starters are a more recent addition to dirt bikes, which have traditionally been kick-started. To start an electric dirt bike, follow these steps:

• Turn the key in the ignition to the "ON" position.
• Locate the electric start button on the handlebar controls.
• Ensure the bike is in neutral and the kill switch is in the "RUN" position.
• Press and hold the electric start button until the engine turns over and starts.

If the engine does not start after a few seconds, release the button and wait a few moments before trying again. It is also important to make sure the battery is fully charged.

If you want to add an electric start to your dirt bike, you can swap motors. This can be time-consuming, costly, and add weight to the bike, but it is possible.

The benefits of an electric starter

Electric starters are a relatively new addition to dirt bikes, but they have already proven to be a popular choice. One of the main benefits of an electric starter is its convenience and ease of use. With an electric starter, you can simply turn the key to the "ON" position, locate the electric start button on the handlebar controls, and press and hold the button until the engine starts. This is much simpler than the traditional kick-starting method, which can be time-consuming and physically demanding.

Electric starters are particularly useful if you crash or stall on an incline, as they allow you to get your bike started easily and continue with your journey without any complications. This is especially beneficial in busy traffic, where a quick and efficient restart is essential to keep the flow of traffic moving.

Another advantage of electric starters is their reliability. With a traditional kick-starter, there is always the risk of complications, especially if the bike is not properly maintained or serviced. Electric starters, on the other hand, are generally more reliable and consistent, provided that the battery is fully charged. This can give riders added peace of mind, knowing that their bike will start when they need it to.

Additionally, electric starters can be beneficial for street-legal bikes, as they make it easier to adhere to certain requirements. For example, street-legal bikes must have operational lighting systems, even when the bike is not running. Electric starters can keep the lights operable at all times, ensuring compliance with these regulations.

While there may be some drawbacks to electric starters, such as the potential added weight and installation costs, the benefits of convenience, ease of use, and reliability make them a popular choice for many dirt bike riders.

How to install an electric starter

Electric starters are favoured over kick-starts because they are more convenient and less tiresome, especially during races and competitions. However, installing an electric starter on a kick-start or non-electric start dirt bike can be time-consuming, costly, and add weight to the bike.

To install an electric starter, you will need a battery, rectifier/regulator, starter relay, updated wiring loom, and electric starter control. You will also need to work out how to hook the starter up to the engine.

One way to get an electric start is to swap motors. For example, you can buy a YX 140cc electric start motor for 400 to 600 and sell your old motor to recoup some of the costs.

It is important to note that without proper installation, you may face some complications.

Electric starters vs kick-starters

Electric starters are a more recent addition to the world of dirt bikes, and their introduction has sparked a debate about their effectiveness and convenience compared to kick-starters.

Electric starters are preferred for street-legal bikes due to their efficiency. If your bike stalls, an electric starter can get you going again quickly and easily, which is especially useful if you're stuck in traffic. In these situations, a kick-starter can cause complications. Electric starters also make it easier to adhere to street-legal requirements, as they can keep your lighting system operational at all times, even if the bike is broken down.

However, some people argue that installing an electric starter on a kick-start or non-electric start bike is time-consuming and costly. It can also add weight to the bike, which may be undesirable for some riders. Additionally, without proper installation, there may be complications.

If you're considering adding an electric starter to your dirt bike, you can buy a motor with an electric starter, such as the YX 140cc, and sell your old motor to recoup some of the costs.

To start a dirt bike with an electric starter, follow these steps:

• Turn the key in the ignition to the "ON" position.
• Locate the electric start button on the handlebar controls.
• Ensure the bike is in neutral and the kill switch is in the "RUN" position.
• Press and hold the electric start button until the engine turns over and starts. If the engine doesn't start after a few seconds, release the button and wait a few moments before trying again. Make sure the battery is fully charged for reliable starting.

Electric starters for street-legal bikes

Electric starters are a relatively new addition to the world of street-legal bikes. They are preferred due to their efficiency and ease of use. When your bike stalls, an electric starter can get your bike started again quickly and easily, allowing you to continue your journey without any complications. This is especially useful if you are stuck in traffic or if your bike stalls on an incline.

Electric starters are also beneficial for adhering to street-legal requirements. For example, a street-legal bike's lighting system must be operational, even if the bike is broken down or not running. Electric starters can keep your lights operable at all times, which is not always possible with a kick-starter.

However, there are some drawbacks to electric starters. Some people argue that installing an electric starter on a kick-start or non-electric start bike is time-consuming, costly, and adds weight to the bike. Additionally, without proper installation, complications may arise.

If you are considering adding an electric starter to your street-legal bike, it is important to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks. Electric starters can be a great addition to your bike, providing efficiency and convenience, but they may also come with some installation challenges and costs.

Frequently asked questions