Suzuki intruder’s kick start mystery solved: unlocking the secrets of the ignition

The Suzuki Intruder, a legendary cruiser motorcycle, has captured the hearts of riders worldwide with its classic styling and unwavering performance. However, one lingering question has often perplexed motorcycle enthusiasts: does the Suzuki Intruder feature a kick start mechanism? In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the depths of this enigmatic topic, exploring the various models and their unique starting systems.

Kick Start: A History of Reliability

Traditionally, kick starters were commonplace in motorcycles, providing a manual means of engine ignition. This method involved physically rotating the engine’s crankshaft by kicking a lever, requiring significant effort and skill. However, with the advent of electric starters, kick starters gradually faded into obscurity, becoming a relic of the past.

Suzuki Intruder: A Modern Classic

The Suzuki Intruder, first introduced in 1985, has evolved over the years, embracing modern advancements while retaining its classic cruiser aesthetic. To cater to the diverse needs of riders, the Intruder family encompasses various models, each boasting its own distinct features and specifications.

Electric Start: The Standard Choice

The vast majority of Suzuki Intruder models, including the VL800, VL1200, and VZR1800, rely solely on electric starters. This convenient and effortless starting method has become the industry standard, eliminating the need for manual kicking. Electric starters utilize a battery to power a small electric motor, which engages with the engine’s flywheel, effortlessly rotating the crankshaft and initiating combustion.

Exceptions to the Rule

While electric starters dominate the Intruder lineup, there are a few notable exceptions. The Suzuki Intruder C1500, produced from 1998 to 2005, was equipped with a unique kick start mechanism in addition to its electric starter. This hybrid approach provided riders with the flexibility of using either method, depending on their preference or circumstances.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Kick Start

The kick start mechanism offers several advantages:

• Reliability: Kick starters are mechanically simple and less prone to failure compared to electric starters, which can be affected by electrical issues or battery depletion.
• Independence: Kick starters eliminate the reliance on a battery, allowing riders to start their motorcycles even in the event of a dead battery or electrical malfunction.
• Nostalgia: For some riders, kick starters evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to the traditional motorcycle experience.

However, kick starters also come with certain drawbacks:

• Physical Effort: Kicking a motorcycle engine requires significant physical exertion, which can be challenging for some riders, especially in cold or wet conditions.
• Skill Requirement: Operating a kick starter effectively requires practice and skill, as improper technique can damage the engine or cause injury to the rider.
• Limited Use: Kick starters are primarily suitable for low-displacement motorcycles. Larger engines, such as those found in modern cruisers, are generally too difficult to start manually.

Wrap-Up: Embracing Progress with a Nod to Tradition

Through its evolution, the Suzuki Intruder has embraced the convenience and reliability of electric starters while preserving the heritage of kick starters in select models. Whether you prefer the effortless simplicity of electric starting or the nostalgic charm of manual kick starting, the Intruder family offers a motorcycle to suit your needs and preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Do all Suzuki Intruder models have kick start?
A: No, the majority of Intruder models feature electric start only. The C1500 model is the only exception, offering both electric and kick start.

Q: Can I add a kick start to an electric-start Intruder?
A: It is generally not recommended to retrofit a kick start to an electric-start Intruder. The necessary modifications can be complex and may compromise the integrity of the engine.

Q: Is it difficult to kick start a Suzuki Intruder?
A: Kicking a large cruiser motorcycle like the Intruder requires significant physical effort. It is important to master the proper technique to avoid injury or engine damage.

Q: What are the advantages of electric start over kick start?
A: Electric starters offer convenience, ease of use, and reliability, especially in cold or wet conditions.

Q: What are the advantages of kick start over electric start?
A: Kick starters provide independence from batteries, increased reliability, and a nostalgic connection to the traditional motorcycle experience.