Kickstart covers

Kickstart Covers: Essential for Starting and Protecting Your Scooter

A kickstart cover is an important part of scooters, especially in models that are still equipped with a kickstart mechanism. This cover not only provides protection, but also ensures that the kickstart mechanism can function properly. In this article, we explain how a kickstart works and what the function of a carter cover on a scooter is, so you can better understand the parts of your vehicle.

How does a kickstart work?

A kickstart is a mechanism that you use manually to start the engine of a scooter or moped. This system is mainly used on older scooters or engines without an electric start, but it is still popular because of its simplicity and reliability. Here is how the kickstart process works:

1. Transferring power to the crankshaft: When you kick the kickstarter, power is transferred to the crankshaft through a series of gears. This sets the engine in motion by turning the crankshaft, causing the pistons in the cylinder to move.

2. Building compression: As the crankshaft turns, compression is built up in the engine's cylinder. The pistons compress the fuel-air mixture, creating enough pressure to start the engine.

3. Ignition: At the same time, the kickstart activates the ignition, which sends a spark to the spark plug. The spark ignites the compressed fuel-air mixture, bringing the engine to life. Once the ignition occurs, the engine starts to run, and keeps running as long as sufficient fuel and air are supplied.

The kickstart is a relatively simple mechanism that works reliably, especially when the electric start of a scooter is not functioning properly. It is important to use and maintain the kickstart regularly so that the system continues to run smoothly.

What is a scooter carter cover?

The carter cover on a scooter, also known as a kickstart cover, is a protective panel that covers various parts of the engine block, including the kickstart mechanism, the variator, and the drive belt. The carter cover has several functions:

1. Protection of internal components: The carter cover protects the sensitive internal parts of the scooter, such as the variator, clutch and drive belt, from dirt, dust and water. These parts are essential for the operation of the scooter, and exposure to dirt can cause wear and tear and malfunctions.

2. Support of the kickstart mechanism: In scooters with a kickstart, this mechanism is often located on the outside of the carter cover. The cover provides the necessary support and attachment points for the kickstart shaft and gears, so you can effectively start the engine when needed.

3. Heat dissipation: The carter cover also helps to dissipate heat from the engine. During riding, the internal parts of the engine can become very hot, and the carter cover ensures that the heat is dispersed and dissipated, which prevents overheating.

4. Aesthetics and aerodynamics: In addition to its functional role, the carter cover also contributes to the aesthetics of the scooter. It covers the parts of the drive, making the scooter look more streamlined and better protected from external damage. This also contributes to the aerodynamics of the scooter.