So, I just purchased my first bike (96 CBR 600 smokin joes) and recently finished my rider's class to receive my endorsement and I'm absolutely stoked to get out and ride. So my question is, When I was looking at the bike that I eventually bought, the guy started it right up, I don't know if it was warm or not cause I showed up followed him the the garage and he started it for me. So I've had it a couple of days and it takes about ten or so tries to get it started. I mean the outside temps are around 34-40 degrees. Is that normal? Do you think getting it a tune up will most likely solve this problem? If not what are some simple fixes that might help? (oil change, coolant drain etc...) The bikes runs strong and smooth as hell Im just hoping this isn't a big deal. It's my first bike so i'm not knowledgable in proper cold start behavior. So please help a new guy out and fellow rider out with your comments. Thanks.

 

Well, heres the deal. Since you really dont know when the last PMs were done, it's good practice that whenever you buy a used vehicle you do ALL the maintenance. (plugs, oil, filters, brakes, chain and sprockets, coolant flush, carb cleaning and synced, ect.) Now you KNOW they were done, and when to do them again. I'm guessing plugs will fix your problem.

 

Are you using the choke?

 

Yeah, I'm using the choke. And the gas may or may not be old. So that might have something to do with it too maybe?

 

Skoobydoobie said it; anytime you purchase a used vehicle it's always a good idea to do a complete tune-up.
If you suspect it's the gas (or even if you don't), put some Sea Foam Motor Treatment in it and when it gets nice out, run the tank dry (riding the bike). Can't hurt.
Another thing to consider is, he had it in a garage, wereas it sounds like you've got it outside. 34-40 degrees is fairly cold. Cold engines don't like to start.

 

On my F3, Choke only, I don't turn on the petrol, I don't touch the throttle, hit the starter button. Since it started up ok for the previous owner, get in touch with him & ask him wot his start up protocol was. BTW I agree with the others about getting your bike serviced as you never know how long its been since the last one.

 

what do you mean you don't turn on the (gas)? It wouldnt start without the gas switch clicked to on right? Unless I have the wrong idea about what you mean by not "turning on the petrol" can you elaborate? Thanks.

 

I think he means he doesn't twist the throttle.

I got the same issue. I need to play with throttle with choke on to be able to start the bike after 6-7 tries.

I changed the plugs, oil, and oil filter, and soon air filter.

I've been told the starting issue is caused by dirty carbs/clogged jets. Once I find a good How To, I will take the carbs out and clean everything.

 

No, I mean that I don't turn on the petrol, there is enough petrol in the carbies to start the bike, once it starts up I turn on the petrol. And it fires up 1st jab of the starter button.
I guess what I'm saying here, is that all individual bikes have their own peculiarities for start up.
I found that my bike does not like the gas being turned on, sure it would eventually start, but took a few goes, just took me a little while to work it out.
I'm sure that you will figure out wot it takes to get your bike fired up 1st go.

 

Everyone thinks they need to pull their carbs apart first thing. Don't. It is a pain in the ***. Run a couple tanks of carb cleaner or seafoam first.