newguy76

Thanks! So far I only understand recommendation #4...so I'll try that one first...most likely I'll have to do some research to find options 1 thru 3 in laymans terms or drawn out in crayon. (yes, I am that new to the motorcycle game)

Hey guys, I'm back with a new question... After trying to sell this bike and having it not start after 2 million kicks, I decided to remove the carburetor and clean it out. I didn't do anything special, just got rid of any gunk and polished it up. I put it back on the bike and made sure everything was tightened up. I then gave it one good kick and HOLY MACKEREL!!!! It turned on but that little sucker was at RPM 4000 and LOUD! Not like an obnoxious loud, but a totally powerful loud. I don't know anything about bikes and I pretty much used common sense to do this project. (I'm sort of proud of me), but I know that there is too much power here. Any tips? Also, I was thinking about trying to get the electric starter to work, but alas...I am a novice.

Hello all, A few months ago I wrote on this forum about some early issues I was having with my bike. Following some of the tips I got, life was good....for a bit. Now, after giving it approximately 5 kicks, it will start with a nice purr, BUT the minute I stop giving it gas it just fizzles out. All of my electrical works though I've since changed out my battery, installed brand new spark plugs, filled it with gas... I now want to throw the bike into the ocean. What should a guy with a dwindling bank account do now? Any help is welcomed!

Hey everyone, I just wanted to thank you guys for the advice. As it turned out it was only the battery. I removed it and cleaned it and now my little red rocket purrs. Thanks to all! I'm sure I'll be asking about more stuff like the newbie that I am.

Thanks fellas! You guys are really cool. I'll try these suggestions this week.

If you mean the little switch that says Engine run? Yeah, and I have had it switched to "run" This is so frustrating. Thanks for the help guys. PS. I should mention the bike is a 1977 Yamaha xs400.

Dude, I have been trying to start my motorcycle all freakin morning. I don't know what I'm doing wrong? I'm pulling the choke, twisting the petcock, squeezing the clutch, giving it throttle, but when I turn the ignition key I'm not getting any lights on my dash. Is it the battery? The only thing I haven't done is kickstart. Help! I bought this used from a guy two months ago and had it shipped to Los Angeles where I just arrived to be with the bike. So I've only had it in my actual possession for a day. My buddy who checked it out for me took a ride and said it started easy. WHat am I doing wrong? I should also add that I've never been on a bike before today.