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The Bike Won’t Start without Choke - What is the Issue?

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A motorcycle has many crucial components in it, all of which come together to make the vehicle function properly. However, at times, as the rider, you noticed some discrepancies in the riding pattern. One such discrepancy is the need to keep the choke of the bike on for it to move forward. This is unusual, as commonly you do not need to keep the choke on for the bike to run. Why does this happen and what is the remedy? Is sending the bike for some expensive repairs by using the policy of insurance for bike the only solution? Thankfully, not. There are some other ways in which you can fix this issue. Let’s find out more about it in the article below.

What is a bike choke?

Before we begin, let us understand what a bike choke is. It is a valve that allows airflow within the carburetor in a proper and restricted manner. The fuel gets into the carburetor and this helps the bike to move forward. But if there is some blockage in the way, this cannot happen. Opening the choke allows the fuel to get in and this pushes the vehicle forward.

When does the bike run only with a choke?

This mainly happens when there is dirt in and around the parts of the carburetor. The areas of concern here include fuel lines, petcock, pilot jets, or fuel filters. The dirt blocks the fuel passage and it cannot reach the carburetor properly. And since the fuel is needed to get a throttle, the bike doesn't move forward unless the choke is left on.

 

With the choke on, the fuel blasts its way in and provides the carburetor with the fuel it needs. While this is relatively safe and doesn't harm any of the internal parts of the bike, it does lead to higher consumption of fuel. This is why you need to address the issue and not just rely on riding the vehicle with the choke always on.

What is the solution?

The solution to the problem is a rather simple one! All you have to do is clean the insides of the carburetor. Identify the areas where the dirt has accumulated. As stated, the vulnerable areas are often the fuel lines, petcock, pilot jets, or fuel filters. If you can spot a dirt pocket that visibly blocks the fuel passage, then clean it out yourself. Else, send your vehicle to the service station and get a thorough clean-up done. If you have insurance for bike you can even make a claim, so check with the service station beforehand.

Identifying the main cause

As stated, clogs in the carburetor cause this issue. However, weather conditions also play a role. When it is very cold, and the bike sits idle for a long time, starting it up may be a problem. Leaving the choke on till the airflow regulates can help the situation too. Hence, there are two main reasons why the choke may be needed to start the bike:

1. To regulate the flow of air

For the engine to work smoothly, a proper air-fuel balance needs to be maintained. If there is an imbalance and the engine does not receive the correct amount of airflow, the bike will not start. This can be frustrating and leave you stranded. Also, the bike may splutter and come to a halt midway through the journey if the airflow is blocked. A common cause for this is dirt accumulation in the air filters. If you have been encountering this problem, take a good look at the air filters. Clean them out and you may find a quick solution to this problem.

If the problem is not addressed, you may need to keep the choke on in order to allow the air to flow into the carburetor and manage the air-fuel balance.

2. To regulate the flow of fuel

Just like the correct flow of air is needed, the correct and proper inflow of fuel is also crucial. As stated, certain parts of the bike get clogged by dirt and this prevents the fuel from reaching the carburetor. If the fuel flow is stopped, the choke will be needed to clear the passage and allow the fuel to rush in. Clean the parts and solve the problem.

Identify the correct cause and then look to address the issue. Doing so will help you to arrive at the correct solution.

Easy tips to fix the issue

Here are some easy tips to help you deal with the problem at hand:

1. Clean the air filter

This is an easy solution that actually works. Take out the air filter and clean it extensively. Make sure it is completely clean and no dirty particles are stuck to it.

2. Replace the air filter

While cleaning the air filter if you notice that it is damaged or cannot be cleaned beyond a point, do not hesitate to get it changed. Replacing the parts of the bike from time to time is crucial and maintaining the proper health of the vehicle.

3. Clean the carburetor

The carburetor and its parts are largely responsible for this issue. So you need to identify the spots where the dirt has accumulated and clean them out rigorously.

Always be prepared for the job at hand. Have a cleaning kit ready with you so that you do not miss out on the key items needed to complete the cleaning task. If you are unsure, ask an experienced friend to help you. Or, send the bike to a professional cleaning service and get the job done.

Conclusion

The bike is a very precious asset that you own. Just like you buy insurance for bike to keep it safe, you should also run some checks from time to time to ensure the bike and its parts are in mint condition. This will help you to spot any flaws or defects and address them. Cleaning the air filters and carburettor regularly will also go a long way in improving the health of your bike. Once that is ensured, you don't have to worry about the vehicle running with the choke on.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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