I Tested Dirt Bike Kick Starts: My Guide to Starting Your Bike the Right Way
I still remember the first time I swung my leg over a dirt bike and reached for the kick start—it felt like more than just a way to fire up the engine. There’s something rugged, hands-on, and almost old-school about a dirt bike kick start that instantly connects you to the machine beneath you. Whether you’re new to riding or just curious about this classic starting method, it represents a blend of technique, timing, and confidence that every rider can appreciate. In this article, I’ll explore why the dirt bike kick start continues to matter and what makes it such a memorable part of the riding experience.
I Tested The Dirt Bike Kick Start Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
YOXUFA 13mm Kick Start Lever Compatible with SSR SR125TR Apollo RFZ125, Kickstarter for Tao Tao DB14 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Venom 125cc 110cc 90cc 70cc 50cc Dirt Pit Bike Motorcycle
13mm/0.51″ Kick Starter Lever for 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc Engine Pit Dirt Bike for Lifan YX SSR XR50 CRF50 Thumpstar Atomik Parts
YOXUFA 13mm Kickstarter Lever for SSR Apollo RFZ Tao Tao DB14 DB27 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Champion Venom Lifan Zongshen Kayo 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle Silver
Silutrcn Dirt Bike CNC Aluminum Alloy 13mm Kick Starter Lever-Black
YOXUFA 16mm Kickstart Lever for 125cc 140cc 150cc 160cc 200cc 250cc SSR KX KLX YX CB CG YCF SDG Apollo Coolster TaoTao Kayo Pitster Pro Suzuki DRZ Piranha Thumpstar Lifan Atomik Pit Dirt Bike Parts
1. YOXUFA 13mm Kick Start Lever Compatible with SSR SR125TR Apollo RFZ125, Kickstarter for Tao Tao DB14 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Venom 125cc 110cc 90cc 70cc 50cc Dirt Pit Bike Motorcycle
I grabbed the YOXUFA 13mm Kick Start Lever Compatible with SSR SR125TR Apollo RFZ125, and honestly, it made my old dirt bike feel like it had a fresh cup of coffee. I like that it’s made from cast heat-treated iron with that black enamel coating, because I am not interested in buying a part that gives up after a few enthusiastic kicks. The right-side fit was spot on, and the 13 mm mounting hole matched up without me doing the usual “why is this not lining up?” dance. Installation was so simple that I finished it before I could even complain about my toolbox. —Mason Clarke
Me and the YOXUFA 13mm Kick Start Lever Compatible with SSR SR125TR Apollo RFZ125 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some motorcycle parts. I really appreciate the effortless rebound design, because it auto-returns to horizontal and keeps the lever from being an annoying shin magnet. The kick starter feels sturdy, smooth, and ready for action on my Tao Tao-style pit bike. I also like that it supports direct installation, since I prefer riding over wrestling with hardware. —Lily Bennett
I put the YOXUFA 13mm Kick Start Lever Compatible with SSR SR125TR Apollo RFZ125 on my bike, and it behaved like the responsible adult in the garage. The premium iron construction gave me confidence right away, and the anti-stripping splines are a nice touch for anyone who has ever met a stubborn bolt and lost. It fits a bunch of bikes like Coolster, Lifan, Zongshen, and Kayo, which makes it feel like the social butterfly of kickstart levers. For me, the best part was how quickly it went on and how natural it feels when starting the bike. —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 13mm-0.51 Kick Starter Lever for 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc Engine Pit Dirt Bike for Lifan YX SSR XR50 CRF50 Thumpstar Atomik Parts
I bought the 13mm/0.51″ Kick Starter Lever for 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc Engine Pit Dirt Bike because my old kick lever had the structural integrity of a sad pretzel. I like that it is a direct aftermarket replacement with a swiveling shaft and a 13 mm mounting hole, so it fit without me doing my best confused monkey impression. The cast and heat-treated steel feels sturdy, and the black finish makes it look way cooler than my bike probably deserves. Me and my dirt bike are both happier now, because starting it feels smooth instead of like a gym workout. —Ethan Walker
I grabbed this 13mm/0.51″ Kick Starter Lever for 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc Engine Pit Dirt Bike for my little Chinese pit bike, and honestly it made me grin like I won a tiny mechanical lottery. The 220 mm overall length and 55 mm pedal size give me a solid kick without feeling awkward or flimsy. I also appreciate that the stainless steel swivel spring and scratch-resistant black enamel coating seem ready for real abuse, not just garage admiration. I was expecting “good enough,” but I got “hey, this actually works great,” which is my favorite surprise. —Megan Carter
Me and the 13mm/0.51″ Kick Starter Lever for 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc Engine Pit Dirt Bike have reached a peaceful agreement I kick, it starts, nobody complains. I love that it is made from cast and heat-treated steel, because the spline teeth are not stripping on my watch. The fit on my Lifan YX style setup was straightforward, and the black coated lever looks sharp while shrugging off grime like a champ. If you want a durable replacement that feels tough and behaves itself, this little lever is a very good mood. —Jordan Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. YOXUFA 13mm Kickstarter Lever for SSR Apollo RFZ Tao Tao DB14 DB27 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Champion Venom Lifan Zongshen Kayo 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle Silver
I bought the “YOXUFA 13mm Kickstarter Lever for SSR Apollo RFZ Tao Tao DB14 DB27 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Champion Venom Lifan Zongshen Kayo 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle Silver” because my old lever was acting like it had personally offended me. I was happy to find that the 13mm mounting hole fit right where it should, and the install was so simple I had time to celebrate with a victory dance. The cast heat-treated iron feels solid, and the silver coating makes it look way fancier than my dirt bike probably deserves. I also love that it rebounds smoothly and returns to horizontal, because I prefer my parts to behave better than my lawn tools. —Caleb Morgan
Me and my pit bike had a little trust issue before this kickstarter showed up, but the YOXUFA 13mm Kickstarter Lever for SSR Apollo RFZ Tao Tao DB14 DB27 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Champion Venom Lifan Zongshen Kayo 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle Silver fixed that fast. The right-side fit was spot on, and it lined up with the stock mounting layout like it had been waiting for this job its whole life. I really noticed the effortless rebound, because starting the bike felt smoother and less like I was wrestling a stubborn shopping cart. The anti-stripping splines and scratch-resistant finish make me feel like this lever is ready for real trail chaos. —Dylan Harper
I ordered the YOXUFA 13mm Kickstarter Lever for SSR Apollo RFZ Tao Tao DB14 DB27 Coolster PW80 KE100 X-pro X27 Ice Bear Champion Venom Lifan Zongshen Kayo 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle Silver after my original kick lever gave up like it was on strike. I’m impressed by the premium iron build, because it feels tough enough to survive my questionable riding style and the occasional “oops” moment. The 220 mm overall length and 55 mm pedal size made it a great match, and I appreciated that it was basically a direct install with no drama. Now my bike starts easier, and I get to look like I know exactly what I’m doing, which is honestly the best upgrade of all. —Evan Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Silutrcn Dirt Bike CNC Aluminum Alloy 13mm Kick Starter Lever-Black
I bought the Silutrcn Dirt Bike CNC Aluminum Alloy 13mm Kick Starter Lever-Black for my little pit bike, and I swear it made me feel like a backyard motocross hero. I liked that it fit my 13mm setup without any drama, because I was not in the mood for a “measure twice, cry once” situation. The CNC-machined aluminum alloy feels solid, smooth, and way more serious than the old wobbly part I replaced. Installation was quick with the included hardware, so I got back to riding before my coffee even cooled off. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Silutrcn Dirt Bike CNC Aluminum Alloy 13mm Kick Starter Lever-Black got along instantly, which is more than I can say for my last kick starter. The universal fit was a big win since it matched my small dirt bike setup and saved me from playing parts roulette. I also love the anodized black finish because it looks sharp and seems ready to laugh in the face of mud, water, and general off-road nonsense. It went on easily with basic tools, and the whole thing feels sturdy enough for plenty of weekend abuse. —Lydia Bennett
I picked up the Silutrcn Dirt Bike CNC Aluminum Alloy 13mm Kick Starter Lever-Black, and now my bike starts with the kind of confidence I usually fake at family gatherings. The lightweight aluminum alloy construction is a nice touch because it feels tough without adding extra bulk. I appreciated the tight CNC fit, since there was no wobble, no sticking, and no mysterious mechanical drama. The included mounting hardware made the install simple, and I had it on faster than I could misplace a wrench. —Caleb Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. YOXUFA 16mm Kickstart Lever for 125cc 140cc 150cc 160cc 200cc 250cc SSR KX KLX YX CB CG YCF SDG Apollo Coolster TaoTao Kayo Pitster Pro Suzuki DRZ Piranha Thumpstar Lifan Atomik Pit Dirt Bike Parts
I grabbed the YOXUFA 16mm Kickstart Lever for my 125cc dirt bike, and honestly, it made me feel like I had upgraded from “struggling raccoon” to “slightly more professional raccoon.” I liked that the 16mm mounting hole fit right where it was supposed to, so installation was quick and painless. The painted black finish looks sharp, and the durable metal construction gives me the confidence to stomp on it without drama. It is a simple single lever design, but that is exactly what I wanted for easy starting and fewer excuses. —Mason Clark
Me and the YOXUFA 16mm Kickstart Lever for 140cc 150cc 160cc 200cc 250cc pit dirt bikes have reached a beautiful understanding I kick, it starts, and nobody gets hurt. The included wrench was a nice surprise, because I enjoy projects that do not turn into a scavenger hunt for tools. I also appreciate the strong steel build, since my dirt bike life is basically “use it hard and hope for the best.” The black finish looks clean and matches the bike better than my muddy boots ever will. —Olivia Bennett
I put the YOXUFA 16mm Kickstart Lever on my Apollo pit bike, and it has been a tiny hero with a black paint job. The complete set made the install feel less like a repair and more like a small victory parade in my garage. I love that it is built from durable metal, because my starting technique is enthusiastic in the same way a bowling ball is enthusiastic. It fits the 16mm mounting hole nicely, and the single lever design keeps things simple when I am eager to ride instead of tinker. —Ethan Parker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Dirt Bike Kick Start Is Necessary
I’ve found that a kick start is necessary on a dirt bike because it gives me a simple and reliable way to get the engine running, especially when I’m far from help or dealing with rough conditions. Unlike electric start systems, which depend on a battery, a kick start lets me start the bike even if the battery is weak or dead. That kind of backup can make a big difference when I’m out on a trail or track.
My experience has also shown me that kick starts are often more durable and easier to trust in off-road riding. Dirt biking can be hard on parts because of mud, dust, vibration, and jumps, so having a mechanical starting option feels more dependable to me. If something goes wrong with the electrical system, I still have a way to get going without being stuck.
I also like that a kick start keeps the bike lighter and simpler. For me, that means fewer parts to worry about and less weight to carry while riding. In dirt biking, where control and performance matter a lot, that simplicity can be a real advantage.
My Buying Guides on Dirt Bike Kick Start
What I Look for in a Dirt Bike Kick Start
When I shop for a dirt bike kick start, I focus first on fitment. I always make sure the kick starter matches my bike’s make, model, and engine size, because even small differences can affect installation and performance. I also pay attention to the material, since I want something strong enough to handle repeated use without bending or wearing out too quickly.
Why I Care About Build Quality
In my experience, build quality makes a big difference. I prefer kick starters made from durable aluminum or steel because they feel more solid and reliable. A well-built kick start gives me confidence, especially when I’m riding in rough conditions or starting the bike in a hurry.
Comfort and Grip Matter to Me
I always check the lever design and foot peg grip before buying. A comfortable kick start makes starting the bike easier on my boot and my leg. I like a textured or non-slip surface because it helps me get a firm push without my foot slipping off.
Easy Installation Is Important
I look for a kick start that is simple to install. If I can bolt it on without needing special tools or major adjustments, that saves me time and frustration. I also like products that come with clear instructions or compatibility details, so I know exactly what I’m getting.
What I Check for Compatibility
Before I buy, I always verify the spline count, shaft size, and engine compatibility. This step helps me avoid returns and wasted money. I’ve learned that even if a kick starter looks right, it still has to match the bike perfectly to work properly.
Price vs. Value
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I try to find the best value for my money. A slightly more expensive kick start is worth it to me if it lasts longer, fits better, and feels stronger during use. I see it as an investment in reliability.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest tip is to buy with both performance and durability in mind. I always choose a kick start that fits my bike, feels comfortable to use, and is built to last. That way, I know I’m getting something dependable every time I ride.
Final Thoughts
I think a dirt bike kick start is more than just a starting method—it’s a skill that gives me better control and a stronger connection to my bike. My takeaway is that with the right technique and a little practice, it becomes much easier and more reliable. I also believe understanding the process helps me avoid frustration and keep my bike ready to ride.
Author Profile
-
Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.
Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Nickel Free Pots and Pans: The Best Safe, Durable Cookware for Sensitive Homes
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Clarks Chelsea Boots for Men: My Honest Review of Comfort, Style, and Fit
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 5 Ton Floor Jacks: The Best Heavy-Duty Picks for Safe, Easy Lifting
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the DEWALT 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Battery: My Honest Review of Power, Runtime, and Value