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All the new generation 4 strokes kick start easy...................... when they are new. The problem (with CRFs, YZ450Fs, etc) is that as you put time on the motors they become harder and harder to start. With valve clearences flexing, rings wearing, etc the motor simply is not as good as it was when it was new. And, it shouldn't. They become more of a pain in the arse to start, especially when hot.
Even still, if you take care of your motor and keep the engine maintenance up, it will be relatively reliable.
The biggest problem I have with the kick start is this. I ride MX, and only MX. When you stall a kick start only quad in a race, you are screwed. Now, it is not the quad's fault you stalled it, but still, if you do in a MX race by the time you get the kicker out, and kick it over, you have lost positions. Even worse if your clutch is slightly worne and you have to find neutral. Ever be in a race and stall and try to find neutral with you heart racing a mile a minute and with arm pump? Not fun.
I wouldn't let the kicker keep me from buying a TRX, but I sure would be a lot happier if it came with e start and a kicker back up. To me, that is the logical choice. Yamaha was close, but should have put the kicker on from the factory.
Scott
You Yami guys will do anything to put down the Honda!!! My 250r is over 16 years old!!! It has been sitting all winter long, I put the choke on, a gave it 1 solid kick and it started!!! What makes the 450r soo easy to start is the compression release. My buddies 350x is 16years old and still starts with one or 2 kicks cold. If you maintain your bike its going to start! I haven't had a problem yet starting this bike! The freakin kickstart option on the YFZ is over $400!! I'm sure for that price someone will make an estart option in the future for my girlfriends who have problems starting the 450R. :macho