An odd kick start lever

[Michael Moore]

I have a very vague recollection of having read an article on a VMX/Vinduro bike, quite possibly a European factory prototype of the 1970/80s, that had a novel kick lever.

Instead of having a pivot at the base or at the top, the main shaft had a cross hole at the top and the foot pedal would slide in/out perpendicular to the center plane of the bike as needed, with a detent holding it in position.

I've looked though some of my books that have a lot of period photos but I can't spot anything like that and my memory which is usually pretty good for odd bits of trivia is failing me on this.

Does this strike a familiar chord for anyone?

cheers,
Michael

[b490]

 I did own a  Montesa Cota 25  trials bike which had this type of kick starter.

  Steve

[Michael Moore]

Thanks Steve, that may be it.  The vague memory included a canted-forward lever and this high-res photo of a 25 shows exactly that.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/49/Montesa_Cota_25_1974.JPG

I had been thinking with the forward lean on the lever that it was a last gasp Bultaco/Montesa open-class prototype MXer.  I guess the Cota 25 would qualify as that if it had another 40-45 hp.



cheers,
Michael

[David Lahey]

Cota 172 had this kickstart too

[Moto]

The Bultaco Chispa 50 also had this kickstarter.

[Michael Moore]

It seems like it could work OK, even on bigger bikes.  Kick levers often get worn and sloppy and there might be enough bearing area with the Cota 25 arrangement to slow down the wear.