Red Seal Motorcycle Technician Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a motorcycle's kickstarter?

1. To improve fuel economy

2. To manually start the engine

3. To adjust the throttle position

4. To charge the battery

The correct answer is: To manually start the engine

The primary purpose of a motorcycle's kickstarter is to manually start the engine. This mechanical device allows the rider to engage the engine's flywheel directly, generating the necessary rotation to initiate combustion within the engine's cylinders. When the kicker is pressed down, it transfers energy in a way that cranks the engine, allowing it to start even without the use of an electric starter system. Kickstarters are particularly common in older motorcycle models and certain off-road or lightweight bikes, where weight considerations and simplicity of design are significant. While many modern motorcycles rely on electric starters for convenience, the kickstarter serves as a backup method to start the engine when the battery is dead or if there is a failure in the electric starting system. This aspect of the kickstarter is crucial for riders, particularly those who might find themselves in remote locations where relying solely on an electric starter could lead to difficulties. Understanding the function of the kickstarter enhances a motorcycle technician's ability to troubleshoot and address starting issues that may arise in various motorcycle models.