This method requires a running bike to begin with (!), but assuming that has happened:
- get your jetting close, especially the pilot (the ride around in circles with constant throttle method works well for me).
- once it's warm, set the idle adjust. No bog when twisting the throttle between thumb and finger, no bounce when it comes back down.
- set the idle speed so it runs smoothly (too low and it'll kind of struggle to stay running).
THen, for cold start:
- no throttle, full choke, 2 easy kicks and then kick it like you mean it once. Always starts for me - I've made the claim that this always works and now my riding buddies watch to make sure, just waiting for the chance to roost me if it fails.
for warm start:
- no choke, just the slightest 2 stroke throttle blip on the first kick, >90% of the time it will fire. If not on the first kick, try just a bit more of a blip. If it hasn't started by the 2nd kick, the idle adjust is off, I usually go an 1/8th turn leaner.
I've had the bike since '94, the first few rides it was a bear to start, but once I dialed in the jetting and the method I've had no problems. I used to giggle watching the 4stroke guys kicking themselves into oblivion, then kick mine once and roost them.
Every 1000 feet or so of altitude, or if it's a really hot dry day, I'll lean the idle adjust 1/8th turn for the 1st cold start.
Usually only have to tweak the idle once every few rides, so I have to remember to check how it's running BEFORE shutting down.
Interesting to read all of these different methods. If somebody smarter than me can come up with the common thread and explain it, that'd be pretty cool.
