> ... was wondering about whether it was possible
> to convert.. .. to chain drive... kick starter...

It could be done, the domestic Suzuki Tempter* version of the LS650 had chain.  You would need to find a source of parts in Japan.  The project would not be easy and certainly not inexpensive.

Regarding a kickstarter, I assume you have never tried to kickstart a big single?  Forget about it.

*http://www.srbikers.com/gordon.html

Why anyone would want to go from Belt to Chain is beyond me. Even if its for "looks"...

There is the option of changing the gearing.

Clive W

If I had an LS I'd be looking at higher gearing to make for a more relaxed ride.

Clive W

sunny wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:08:


Oh yeah, I've been to that other forum too....

I've read all the other replies on this topic.  I know where everyone is coming from on this one, but I don't know where it can go    I'll give it a shot anyway.

Chain drive?  I understand that it is possible to get a front sprocket to fit the engine off the shelf, but to convert the rear wheel will either take a different wheel or the resources of a machine shop.  There isn't any "off the shelf" conversion for that.

But as others have said, "why chain drive?"  Yes, it would be nice to swap ratios to change performance, but why do you want to buy new sprockets and chains each year?  They stretch and wear.  They are messy, too.  How often do you want to clean the rear wheel?  So, even though the belt does have an annoying squeak when it gets wet, I think it is also the next best alternative to a shaft drive.

Kick stater?  Yeah, I remember those and I miss them too.  However, "Thank God"! for the improvements in the electrical systems and batteries over the years because you don't want to kick start this engine (as AL said).  If you really have a problem, you'll kill yourself trying.  Plus, you'll need to convert the decompression system with a manual lever for it to work with the kick starter, anyway.  Kick starters were useful a long time ago with smaller engines...today, hardly any street bike has one, and you won't find a conversion.

Pop starting?  Have you tried that?  Luckily where we live there is usually a small slope somewhere (might be a challenge in Florida).  I have done a rolling pop start test on my Savage...the wife thought I was silly, of course.  If you still wish for a kick starter , then try doing this in 1st gear....you'll see what that 94 mm piston feels like.  Then, after you skid the rear tire, then try it in 2nd.  Get it rolling, key on, 2nd gear, clutch in, kill switch off, and let out the clutch quickly....pop start.  As long as your problem isn't related to fuel or ignition this solution is much easier than kick start, trust me.

I've tried bump starting my KLX and it didn't work, 100mm piston :'(

Clive W

> I've tried bump starting my KLX and it didn't work

With the key off and clutch 'out', put it in gear and back up the bike until it stops.  This rotates the crank about 340 degrees and brings the piston up.  Now, put it in 2nd or 3rd, turn the key on, and with clutch 'in' push like crazy.  When you get some speed jump on the bike and let out the clutch.  It should start.  If you just get wheel lock, select a taller gear.