A mate of mine is looking for a reliable trail bike for not too much cash. I think an XR400 would fit the bill but he's worried about kick starting a 4-stroke. Anyone on here had any experience? Is it a pain or not really so bad?

With a decompressor it's not too bad but there is a knack to it,

Agree with rallycol.

I can show you my scar if you like (Husky SM570R) :D

You get used to it, I prefer a kickstart on a trail bike anyway. Keeps it simple.

Screwd.

Keep the throttle SHUT. Don't even look at it.

Bring it up to compression and nudge it over compression with the decompressor (if fitted).

Let kickstarter come to the top of the stroke.

Deep breath.

Give it a LONG kick, firmly.

I used to be able to start my uncle's BSA 441 Shooting Star first time, nearly every time with that technique. It did bite my leg once though and it foooking hurt :eek:

Keep the throttle SHUT. Don't even look at it.

Bring it up to compression and nudge it over compression with the decompressor (if fitted).

Let kickstarter come to the top of the stroke.

Deep breath.

Give it a LONG kick, firmly.

I used to be able to start my uncle's BSA 441 Shooting Star first time, nearly every time with that technique. It did bite my leg once though and it foooking hurt :eek:

Spot on when cold or hot (+ choak when cold), bit different after they have been upside down!!!

If you're having problems starting a hot engine (particularly if it's been upside down or on it's side), just hold decompressor in, throttle fully open & give 10 or so kicks to clear it. Then just restart using brickboy's procedure.

Also if leaving bike for a few weeks, run bike with petrol off to empty the carb (otherwise can be difficult again to start).

Generally, a well set up XR400 is easy to start as long as you don't give it any throttle. CR500 with old petrol is a different matter - put my father into hospital after the thing spat back putting the kickstart through his boot, leathers & into his calf!!!!

An XR400 is not a particularly high compression motor, compared to Husqvarna and Husaberg competition bikes. The above sounds like good advice but the best person to tell you will be the previous owner. Each bike will have a slightly different technique. Having said that "zero throttle" is pretty much a universal standard for big singles.

Here's one other universal tip: wear proper boots. Always.

Screwd.

husaberg 600 left hand kick , xr650 { mega compression ! } , and every cr500 from 89 - 2000 , and crf450 . had em all and had no probs kicking em over , there is another secret dont be scared of them ie ; kickback . there is a knack obviously but abit of practice and he will get there . only prob is when you get known for being able to kickstart anything people bug ya to start there bikes , lost count of other peoples stuff ive started including dodgy old maico 490,s .
as above tho , a good boot is a must and piston position { tdc } and of you go .
yeeharrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Dont mention the xr650r borrowed one in the Isle of Man for a week of off roading ,what bugger to start when you're hot and the bike is stinking hot,didn't have the strength to pick the bike up nevermind kick it over.

Why not look for a Suzuki DRZ400E bullet proof, elec start & now you can pick one up really cheap.