Total Motorcycle Community Forums

I'm having starting problems with an 86 Honda xl 600 r that had been sitting for 12 years.

I cleaned the carburetors and changed the oil. It seem to run good after I pull start it and it will kick start after it has been running, but I can't kick start it when it's cold.

I think the choke works, because the engine will stall if I pull it when it's running.

I have not checked the spark plug yet because I had to get a special socket. Also the air box is missing some broken off pieces.

I'm going to start on these problems. I was wondering what else I should look for, also what maintenance it needs after sitting so long.

Thanks

Once you get the plugs out, do a compression test.... low compression can make for hard starting, especially on a cold motor. Wouldn't hurt to check the valve lash too, tight(recessed) valves can also make starting hard. A new plug mat be all it needs, too. Missing airbox pieces is probably not too big an issue as long as the filter-to-intake path is sealed.

Thanks for the help, I think it's compression related. I noticed that the kick start decompressor cable does not have slack as far as I can adjust it. So I'm thinking the valve adjustments are off.

Would there be another reason for this?

A bad/stuck decompression cable or actuator could be holding a valve slightly open, but it sounds more like yours is not working at all. This makes kicking it over less effective. And a real P.I.A when it's cold. I'd dig into that system right after you have a peek at your plug.