Electric Start Kits for Dirt Bikes - A Game Changer for Riders

Electric Start Kits - Game Changers for Dirt Bike Riders

If you've ever had to kickstart your dirt bike to life repeatedly before a long day of riding, you know how annoying and tiring it can be. Thankfully, electric start kits provide an easy solution to bring the convenience of push-button starting to your manual start dirt bike. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about choosing, installing, and using an electric start system for your 2-stroke or 4-stroke dirt bike.

Benefits of Electric Start Kits

Electric start kits offer a number of advantages over kickstarting:

• Convenience - Just push a button to fire up your bike instead of kicking repeatedly.
• Reliability - Electric starters provide more consistent starts compared to kicking.
• Preserve Energy - Save your leg strength for the trails instead of kick starting.
• Resale Value - Electric start kits can increase the resale value of your dirt bike.

For trail riders, not having to exert effort kickstarting can mean saving energy for the long day ahead. Electric start also makes it easier to start your bike on very cold days or at high altitudes where kick starters can struggle.

Types of Electric Start Kits

There are two main types of electric start systems for dirt bikes:

• Complete Kits - Include all necessary components in one package - starter motor, battery, wiring harness, and buttons.
• Universal Fit Kits - Starter motor and minimal wiring to connect to your existing battery and buttons.

Complete kits provide the quickest and easiest installation since everything is included. However, universal kits give you more flexibility if you want to use an existing high-performance battery. Both types typically include detailed installation instructions.

Matching The Right Kit For Your Bike

The most important factor in choosing an electric start kit is ensuring it's made specifically for your make and model dirt bike. Kits are usually designed for either 2-stroke or 4-stroke bikes. Within those categories, you'll want the correct fitment for your bike's engine size, mounting points, and other specifications.

Trustworthy brands like Dynojet, Tusk, and Shorai engineer their kits for precise fits across popular dirt bike models from Honda, Yamaha, KTM, Kawasaki, and more. Carefully check manufacturer's fitment guides when shopping for your electric start kit.

Installation Tips

While each kit includes unique directions, here are some general tips for properly installing your electric start on your dirt bike:

• Read instructions fully before starting
• Remove necessary bodywork to access mounting points
• Follow torque specs for all bolts
• Use threadlocker compound on fasteners
• Route wiring cleanly avoiding hot or rotating parts
• Reinstall body panels removed
• Test starter operation before riding

Allow 2-3 hours for installation. Taking your time to install the kit correctly will ensure proper operation and longevity. Don't be afraid to consult a local dealer if you need help with the install.

Using Your New Electric Starter

Once installed, using your dirt bike's electric start kit is very straightforward. Here are some tips for use:

• Make sure bike is in neutral before starting
• Avoid running battery dead by excessive starting attempts
• Start engine before riding off, not while riding
• Recharge or swap battery after each ride
• Maintain starter components per mfr instructions
• Carry a backup kick start tool in case of electrical failure

Electric starters are very convenient but it's smart to still have backup plans like a kick start tool in case of dead battery or starter issues on the trail. Treated properly though, your electric start kit should deliver years of reliable firing up of your dirt bike.

Conclusion

Adding push button electric start to your kick start dirt bike is one of the best upgrades you can make. The kits are designed for straightforward installation and provide awesome convenience. Just make sure to get the proper kit for your specific bike's make, model, and engine. Follow the installation directions closely and you'll be pushing to start in no time.

FAQs

Do electric start kits void the factory warranty?

Generally no, installing an electric start kit does not automatically void your OEM factory warranty. However, any part damaged during installation would not be covered.

Can I leave the electric start attached when transporting my dirt bike?

It's recommended to remove complete electric start kits when transporting your dirt bike. The weight of the starter and battery could damage mounting points during loading/unloading.

How much maintenance does an electric starter require?

Electric starter motors are very low maintenance. Just keep connections clean/tight and motor exterior free of dirt. Brushes may need replacement after heavy long-term use.

What happens if my battery dies while riding?

If your starter battery dies mid-ride, you'll need to use the manual kick starter. This is why carrying a backup kick start tool is recommended.

Can I install an electric start on any dirt bike?

Not all dirt bikes can accept electric start kits. The engine case must have the proper mounting points and provisions. Consult kit manufacturers' fitment guides.