CBG Workshop Back to basics
STARTING A MOTORCYCLE IS obvious, isn’t it? No. Getting used to your motorcycle is essential, as they are all different beasts depending on whether they rolled out of Bracebridge Street, England or Bologna, Italy, but the principles of their engine operation are essentially the same. Here, then, is a quick troubleshooting guide to things you might experience when approaching a bike, particularly for the first time, from cold. Let’s start with the obvious...
■ Is there petrol in the tank? Take off the cap and have a look. Rock the bike around a bit and see if it sloshes about. Does it smell bad? If in doubt, drain it and refill with fresh petrol. Modern ethanol-rich fuel can start to go off in just a couple of months.
■ Many is the time I’ve got