Hi ,the Yamaha sr 500 is an awesome bike!I would like to add to the starting procedure.....I find that the kick is a bit of a dance..up to comp then a swift kick down not a jab but a forceful motion,then a quick release. a faster return,1/8-1/4 throttle when warm and like they said above hook your thumb on the mirror.If it doesn't start 1st or 2nd kick then something is wrong.I also recomend premium fuel if you can get it.