Roll Start a Motorcycle
Ever ride a problem bike that just can't seem to stay running, stranding you frequently? How about breaking down out of the blue, even when you thought the bike was in 'perfect' condition? Want to be able to get back on the road? Read on.
Contents
Steps
- Find an open stretch of road, downhill if possible but at a minimum length of {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 1.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 1-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Turn the ignition to the 'ON' position.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 2.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 2-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- If the bike is carbureted, and not warmed up, activate the choke.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 3.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 3-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Put the bike into second gear, and pull in the clutch.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 4.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 4-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Start moving the bike forward. Move as fast as you can. The faster you are moving before moving on to the next step, the more likely you will succeed. At minimum you should be jogging alongside the bike.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 5.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 5-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Jump onto the bike.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 6.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 6-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Drop all of your weight onto the seat, thereby temporarily giving more traction to the rear tire.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 7.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 7-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- Release the clutch as soon as you hit the seat.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 8.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 8-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- The engine should turn over.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 9.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 9-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- When/if combustion occurs, give and maintain a small amount of throttle so as to prevent a sudden death.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 10.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 10-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
- If the engine turns over but does not fire, retry using first gear.{{#whvid:Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 11.360p.mp4 | Roll Start a Motorcycle Step 11-preview.jpg | | | {{{giffirst}}} | }}
Tips
- Larger bikes typically require the aid of more people. In this case (and when available) sit on the bike while you are pushed, then skip to step 7.
- Remove all gear (armor, gloves) prior to roll starting your bike. These will only tire you out, making subsequent retries more painful. Leave helmet on. Even a short fall can kill.
- Ask for help!
Warnings
- Stay as far out of the way of moving vehicles as possible.
- If you are roll starting a street bike, do not attempt to do so on dirt or gravel. It will be a waste of time. Find pavement.
- Be wary of roadways.
- If you are not confident in your ability to run and jump onto the bike, do not attempt to do so as a fall can easily occur.
- Push with traffic.
