Vintage Dirt Bike Q & A

I have a '78 TT500 that is hard to start. I've used the window to find TDC, and even held the decompression lever to kick it. The latter seems to be a little better, but it still requires more kick than I've got. I even lay it on its side to flood the carb. It seems more difficult when warm.

Any help with a proven starting drill would be most welcome. If not, an offer to buy it?

Thanks in advance.

I would pull the points cover and run a small torch tip file or emory board across the point to ensure they are making good contact. I had a 73 xl 350 that would give me fits about 3 times a year with dirty points. The surface wears on them and they get burnt spots after time, cheap and easy place to start. If that doesnt work, give us a little more info as to how the bike has ran in the past, if this has been a long time problem, black smoke, popping, or stuff that might give some ideas to your problem,

Hope this helps,

_________________
C Bly

74 CR 250M
74 CRF 175
75 XR 75
77 ProFab Aberg HL500
97 Montesa Cota 315R
2003 CR500 AF
2004 CRF 450

Thanks, C. I'll give it a try.

Bob

To start mine,
Pull the choke, find TDC, tiny bit of throttle, stand on the pegs, launch upwards and bring everything you got down hard but make sure you get your foot off the kick starter ASAP or you will end up with your right leg shorter than the left if she kicks back and it will occasionally. get the choke off and ride away. No warm up just putter along for a few minutes then when she is up to temp, HOLD HER FLAT!!!!