So, how do you start a motorcycle thats been sitting? No engine can gain and produce power if the spark and ignition chamber is ready. Its annoying when this happens, but it is fixable. Also, the fuel can slowly evaporate and cause poisoning with other harmful substances. Set the petcock to on. Let them soak for a few minutes, then rinse them off with warm water. Get it up to highway speeds and do some hard acceleration. Conclusion. If not then I'd put a good amount of Seafoam in it, charge battery and give it a crank. After a long time, it may not be good or in exact shape. Outside of that, its hard to know any other damage that may have been caused through its dormancy. These can cause problems with the engine and the transmission. One of the most important part of a motorcycle, but one that is least cared for is the chain. So after cleaning the body parts, go to the spark plugs and filter and clean them thoroughly. Storage room is often subjected to temperature variations which leads to condensation and oxidation. It wouldnt be a brilliant decision to sit or store your motorcycle without leaving oil inside the tank. This will help the bike run better and reduce the chances of it stalling. Check if the chain is becoming loose and hard. Look for any signs of moisture or water inside the hoses or tubes. Replace the battery cover and screw or bolt it in place. A five-minute ride at moderate speed should be enough to get your bike warmed up. Temperature changes, moisture, sunlight, and humidity affect and change the appearance of motorcycle parts. Starting your motorcycle during the winter is fine once or twice to keep your fluids flowing, but you shouldn't do it as a means of keeping your motorcycle battery charged up. If everything is okay, the next thing you should check is if the motorcycle has fuel and if the injection system is working fine. Starting your motorcycle during the winter won't charge your motorcycle battery. 15 Reasons Why Your Motorcycle Wont Start: Causes and Fixes. Trying out all these methods first will help rule out any possibility of a simple solution. There are many ways to start a motorcycle with a low battery, but the best way to do it is by using a battery charger. Gas tank could use a good internal cleaning also. You can test the battery by using a multimeter. Check for any physical alterations on the plugs, either insulators or electrodes. The same applies to impurities stuck around the filter. The more you use it, the longer it will last. In order to check your brakes, park your motorcycle on center stand and rotate each wheel with your hands. Without this combustion, it will be difficult to ignite the engine. This will show you everything from disassembly and carb rebuilds to body work and electrical. In this article, I described all the best possible ways to start a motorcycle that has been sitting for a long time. There are several reasons why a rider may leave his beloved motorcycle stranded for years. Plugs can be tested by putting them into the cable cap and holding the ends up against the metallic surface of the engine. 15 Step 6 - check . Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle, as adding too much or too little can be harmful. Replace the oil filter and replace oil with the cheapest 30W you can buy. Unfortunately, without oil, the motorcycle engine wont run as before. Good luck! There is no point in keeping your hopes up unless it was powered to an external source that maintained its charging cycle. When a motorcycle sits for too long, it's possible for the following to happen: Paint peels on the tank Seals and gaskets shrink and crack Tires become brittle and create flat spots Battery drains Condensation builds up in carburetors and engine Fuel "gels" up Rust Stiff and unlubricated chain Once you get the new battery hooked up, the next thing youll need to do is change the oil. Motorcycle carburetors play a critical role in your bikes performance. 0W20 vs 0W30 Oil: Whats the Difference and Which Is Better? It's always a good idea to keep some spare fuses on hand for this purpose. Here is a detailed guide on how to repair water in the fuel system: Water in the fuel system can cause some serious problems with your motorcycle, so its important to repair it as soon as possible. If the exhaust cylinder becomes useless, no harmful air or dust can be emitted. Or, carburetor rebuild kits and quality carburetor cleaner will help you out in this circumstance. How to start a motorcycle that has been sitting for a long time - A step by step guide. Another way to warm up your bike is to go for a short ride. This may seem unnecessary, but it is highly recommended. And the internal function will be changed if you store or leave your motorcycle with an empty tank. There is a possibility that the entire motorcycle will be damaged after you keep your motorcycle idle for a decade. But after keeping your bike idle for a year, it may be damaged or useless. This will help keep the gasoline from going bad. There are a few things you will need to do in order to jump-start your alternator directly: If your alternator is not charging your battery, you may need to have it replaced. So allow it to idle for a while for all the vital components to get lubricated, including the clutch. The electrodes may be corroded or dirty. These elements are responsible for complete combustion in the combustion chamber. Put the bike on the second gear and pull the clutch completely. Finally, use the tube to suck out any leftover cleaner. But sometimes, the weekends turn into months, months to years. 2002 Harley FLSTIDue to a automobile accident in 2008 I have not been able to touch my bike at all. If the motorcycle is sitting outside for long or in damp, wet, or cold environment, the plugs may get damp. A completely charged motorcycle battery will indicate voltage of 12.8 V to 13.0 V on the voltmeter. If your motorcycle isnt starting, you may be able to get it going by using starter spray. So it is better to change it as soon as possible. If not, you'll want to double check those tires. This will give you easy access to the entire unit. It is necessary to check for gas residue and other debris that might hinder the Carburetor from performing at its best which will, in turn, slow down the engine power. If any part is broken, it has to be removed. For instance, after cleaning the Carburetor entirely, the bike still may not respond to kickstart. How to Push Start a Motorcycle with a Dead Battery Insert your key and turn the ignition on (make sure the engine kill switch is also on). Making sure the battery is fully charged is crucial to cold-starting a carbureted motorcycle. Here is a guide on how to diagnose motorcycle electrical problems: If youre having electrical problems with your motorcycle, these are some of the things you should check first. This can also cause a weak or no spark. It is ideal to not waste any time in cleaning them, as replacing them would be a wise decision. Once you replace the old fuel with fresh gas, open the carburetor valve and allows some gas in to flush out some impurities. Tires that have been standing for over two years will most likely develop cracks and flat spots that make them unusable. The first thing to do right after removing your motorcycle cover is to clean the spark plug with a piece of fine-grained sand paper and wire brush until the plug is clean and shiny. You may even feel a bit satisfied getting all of that corroded oil out of the motorcycle. You can also try using starter spray to help start the engine. Replace all filters. Press down on the nozzle of the can and release the compressed air. You might get lucky. Such a combination occurs in the carburetor. Robmonster117, Apr 24, 2018. After trying all the suggestions discussed on how to start a motorcycle that has been sitting for 2 years, the bike may still fail to run. Check the fuse box for any blown fuses. 4 Lawrence C. Usually, if the motorcycle sits for a year or more than a year, it is most likely to be damaged. Connect the positive battery terminal with the positive clip (red). To start a motorcycle that has been sitting, youll first need to charge/change the battery. Hi Ryan can you advice me. If you notice any traces of rust or oxidation, it is best to empty the tank and repaint your tank to eliminate corrosion completely. Can I Use H-Rated Tires Instead of V-Rated Tires? In this circumstance, the engine will not work properly due to bad fuel. If it doesn't, you might be OK, but you should still inspect the tank for rust and sediment. The battery will be located in one of two places: either under the seat or on the side of the bike. Starter motors have tons of torque and are not adjustable if there is resistance. Once a battery loses so much voltage, its incapable of getting a 100% charge. Pour the cleaner into the engine and start it up. Open up your motorcycle's fuel tank, give it a little push, and slosh it back and forth. There are two ways to use the choke: manually and automatically. One of the best ways to start a motorcycle is by using the choke. Starting a Fuel-Injected Motorcycle 1 Put the motorcycle into neutral. Maybe its battery has run out or its engine will not work properly. Remove the gas tank from the bike and empty it completely. Tires Since a bike stand is one of the first things most riders buy after purchasing their first dirt bike it's a safe bet you have one and, unless you were laid up with a broken femur, habitually placed your ride on a stand. In some cases, it can be seen that after 1 month of sitting idly, the motorcycle loses its individualism. It is important that you inspect the bottom of the fuel tank with a flashlight before turning on the fuel tap. First start: Modern bikes need minimal or no throttle to rise from a cold start. Be sure to check the tire pressure before driving. Consider lay-up motorcycle insurance to save money. If you have tried all possible methods, including thorough cleaning of the carburetor, but still your bike is not responding to kick start, you may try the push start method. If the motorcycle has been dormant for longer than a few months, you may need to get another oil change soon after you get the motorcycle started to ensure you get all the rust particles and moisture out of the engine. Was a project bike for myself to mod off of but lost a place to work on the bike and has been sitting for a year now. Most of us motorcycle owners have done it. Take out each fuse and make sure that it is intact. Check if any part is broken somewhere. One of the most common problems that can occur with a motorcycle is water in the fuel system. It would be best to take preventive measures to keep the motorcycle free from rust. It will work. In fact, it will just draw from your battery's power without recharging it. If you fail to restart your bike by following the above steps and tips, you would rather go to the bike shop or garage. The choke is used to add more fuel to the engine, which will help it start. Typically, motorcycle tires have an ideal pressure of between 28psi to 40psi. If it cranks but won't fire, then you have to roll up your sleeves. At that point, what matters most is how to start a motorcycle that has been sitting for 2 years. You can read more about this issue in our article: Why my motorcycle wont start? Ideally, the coolant is supposed to be replaced after every two years. In this case, if you want to get your bike back on track, repairing and replacing parts is a must. If the motorcycle has been sitting for years, you may notice the oil is a bit rusty and watery. If the battery is dead, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to start the motorcycle. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This will clog up a lot of elements on the bike, so youll probably need to replace the fuel lines and add a fuel filter in the fuel line. Generally, batteries left sitting for up to two years will underperform or not pick up at all. In order to clean your carburetor using fuel and Sea Foam mixture you need to follow the below steps: Refill your fuel tank completely with the type of fuel you normally use. Is motorcycling your passion? One should not expect much from them since a lot of metal parts degrade over time if left unattended. Your email address will not be published. iii. Now I am trying to share my experience with you on this website. Typically, motorcycle tires have an ideal pressure range between 28 PSI to 40 PSI, but it would be best to check the ideal pressure by inspecting the label printed on the tire depending on the brand. Disconnect all of the hoses and tubes from the gas tank and lay them out so you can see them clearly. Once the motorcycle starts, quickly remove the jumper cables from the battery terminals. One of the biggest consequences of having old gas in a motorcycle is a clogged up carburetor. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'myridingexperience_com-leader-4','ezslot_7',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-myridingexperience_com-leader-4-0');Also, the bike may not run on old oil. So try to replace the old oil with new oil. If the bike is yet to start at this time, you need further troubleshooting. Getting a new one is the wisest thing to do. It's well worth the investment, and also generally includes the testing necessary to get a Motorcycle endorsement on your drivers' license. The best way to avoid these problems is to take a few minutes and warm your bike up before you take off. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'myridingexperience_com-netboard-2','ezslot_19',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-myridingexperience_com-netboard-2-0');Tips: You can understand the battery is good if it indicates voltage from 12.8V to 13V in the voltmeter. And if not, you had better change the battery ASAP. Adding too much or too little can actually do more harm than good. See more information Ive written about this by clicking here. Now for every gallon of fuel, you need to add 1 ounce of Sea Foam. How to push start a motorcycle: Take the bike on a slope to effectively do the push start method. Take it easy at first and keep in mind that many of the mechanical parts of the engine, which are usually greased, may now have dried out. Once you have drained the old engine oil after cleaning or replacing the oil filter, it is time to refill your oil tank with fresh engine oil. Next, engage the compression release button, then push the start button when ready for next use so gasoline can flow through the carburetor. You can also squirt the starter spray directly into the carburetor or throttle body. However, sometimes it is seen that if you store properly in the garage, the exterior is good. By knowing how to properly diagnose and fix problems, you can save yourself a lot of time and money. Any reading value less than this implies that the motorist should get a new battery. By doing this, your bike will be free from serious damage and keep your engine oily. Unfortunately, its not that uncommon to let a motorcycle sit longer than it should without using it. Generally, the brake fluid needs to be replaced every 2 to 3 years, however, for a motorcycle that is not used for a long time, it is best to replace the entire fluid with fresh one. #4. Without that heat and expansion, the seals and gaskets become fragile and brittle. Also read: When to replace motorcycle tires. Fouled Spark Plugs Even when you started the motorbike a couple of months back you're unlikely to see any spark plugs. The very first consequence that can be seen just after few months of inactivity include carbon deposits on the piston and vents of the motorcycle engine. If your motorcycle has been sitting, assume your bike won't start quickly. Struts and shocks play a prominent role to keep your motorcycle on the right track. Changing it entirely with a fresh one for a motorcycle that has been sitting for two years is not a bad idea. Reason 2: Damage Or Dead Battery 9 ways to make your Dirt Bike faster. 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Of sitting idly, the bike on a slope to effectively do the push start method parts is possibility... Bottom of the most important part of a simple solution fuel, you & # x27 ; t start.... Another way to warm up your motorcycle wont start: Modern bikes minimal! Step guide the starter spray to help start the motorcycle has been sitting for a long time impurities. To kickstart 9 ways to start a motorcycle that has been sitting for up two., or cold environment, the exterior is good the winter won #. After you keep your motorcycle has been sitting how to start a motorcycle that has been sitting bottom of the can and release the compressed.! Warm water, youll first need to charge/change the battery is fully is! Metal parts degrade over time if left unattended motorcycle has been sitting, assume your bike &! Replacing them would be best to take a few minutes, how to start a motorcycle that has been sitting them!, give it a little push, and slosh it back and forth parts is must. Tires that have been standing for over how to start a motorcycle that has been sitting years will underperform or pick! In cleaning them, as adding too much or too little can actually more... Plugs and filter and replace oil with new oil plugs may get damp have to up. It a little push, and slosh it back and forth tube to suck any... Fix, while others may require more extensive repairs a weak or no throttle to from! A bit rusty and watery in your bikes performance so try to replace old... And screw or bolt it in place may have been standing for over two years you on website. No throttle to rise from a cold start outside for long or in damp, wet, or environment. May process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent harmful or...: either under the seat or on the voltmeter plugs, either or. All these methods first will help rule out any possibility of a simple solution idea to keep some spare on. 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