With the engine off, ensure the bike is in neutral. In most cases, the clutch must be let out, or the kickstarter will not spin the engine. Sometimes, it can be helpful to give the kickstart lever a couple of kicks with the clutch engaged to ensure it's not jammed and to free sticky clutch plates. Turn on the fuel petcock. On some bikes you may need to close a choke and/or tickle (prime) the carburetor(s). Don't rest the bike on the sidestand while starting - sidestands aren't meant to take the punishment. If you don't feel comfortable both balancing and kicking, and your bike is equipped with a center stand, you can place it on that as centerstands are centrally placed and can take the abuse. (Just don't roll it off the stand while starting.). And, if your bike has an ignition switch, turn it on. Place your foot on the kickstarter. Use body weight rather than leg muscles to deliver a smart, rapid kick. If the lever is placed too high, you may want to engage the clutch and lower it a little before releasing and kicking. Generally speaking, a cold motorcycle should take no more than three kicks to start, a warm bike should take no more than two. More than that, it likely needs some sort of adjustment. End of copy paste......
I need to work on this! My weight is not in my favor.
Good luck
