Kick Starting injuries!

[LJ.]

I've got a bad foot! Did not think it would happen, always thought I was strong enough to handle kick starting. So what's happened?

Well I think it was down to wearing carpet slippers! stupid? yeah.. not backfiring or anything but just heavy turning the B33 engine over a few times resulting in straining the instep of my right foot. It turns out to be what is called 'Plantar Fasciitis' and can happen to almost anyone. Basically reading a medical website it shows that we guys are probably the most at risk. Interesting reading to make you take extra care, no doubt a good strong pair of boots, which I normally do wear, is what's best.

http://www.patient.co.uk/printer.asp?doc=23068803 [You might get a print document box come up, just cancel it]

[terryk]

Hi LJ, I have had this many times in the past so I feel your pain we call it heel spur in OZ. It lasted for 8 months sometimes more for me so I hope yours goes quicker than mine did. I dont know if its really from just kicking a BSA but more likely wearing flat shoes with no arch support over months etc. I was told by a doctor they called it Bobbys feet (policeman walking the streets in hard flat shoes for long periods). If you get shoe inserts with arch support it will help over time. Take care. Here's a little youtube clip that may help.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9dfdou0hYo

[terryk]

Hey LJ, get Emma to kick your bikes she should have it really sorted by now.
Years ago I used to kick my single BSA without the decompressor lever I thought it was only to find compression and to kill the engine. I learnt way back then its best use is to hold it in until its third way thru the down kick then let it go. This makes it easy to kick. But I'm sure you should know that from your M20 maybe others dont. cheers Terry

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FztFORtfaIk

[LJ.]

Thanks for those tips and comments Terry! I checked out my shoes and carpet slippers and must admit they could do with replacing. Seems that I've been spending most money on bike luxuries rather than self body necessities, I'll be getting new footwear with the supports that you suggest. I dunno which is worst? The foot pains or Tennis Elbow that I've had in the past. I dread to think of having this foot problem in both feet! 

Just looked at Emma's bike starting video, gosh its well over 37,000 views now and with one 'dislike' 

its best use is to hold it in until its third way thru the down kick then let it go.

This indeed is a very good tip and I do start this way, its also a good time saver, literally it is kick n' go! But still a very heavy flywheel that needs momentum build up. Watching this guy on YouTube says it all, but he's not doing what you suggest...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTnSlnJ48s0

[chaterlea25]

Hi LJ,
Sorry to hear of your injury!
at least you didnt wind up like this bloke??
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGV3VPoR79I&NR=1

The "Art" of kickstarting is a long and protracted subject???

Happy new year
John O R

[MG]

Get well soon, man!

FYI: This is NOT how to do it:   
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGTPc3SLHW8&feature=related

Must be the best way to an injury such as yours....

[Caw!]

Whatever ya do............Don't get old!    Happy New Year!  Richard

[muskrat]

G'day LJ,
            know how you feel. Just had a mates Highly Dangerous over for some (lots) work. Over extended BOTH knees.
BTW congrats on 1K posts.
Cheers