Maintaining a motorcycle is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. However, many riders overlook small components during routine check-ups, which can lead to persistent issues and reduced service life. In this article, we delve into two often-neglected aspects of motorcycle maintenance that are vital for keeping your ride in top condition: the ignition system and the importance of proper gap settings.
The ignition system is the heart of your motorcycle's engine, responsible for starting the bike and keeping it running smoothly. A common oversight during maintenance is the minimum ignition speed—the lowest engine speed at which the ignition system can produce a high-voltage spark. For instance, the Honda CH125 water-cooled scooter has a minimum ignition speed of 300 revolutions per minute (rpm). If the ignition performance deteriorates, this speed can increase, sometimes requiring more than 400 rpm to ignite.
Many mechanics rely on simple arcing tests, removing the spark plug and checking for a spark at the high-pressure damping cap. However, this method can be misleading. Without the spark plug, there's no compression resistance in the cylinder, and the starting speed can exceed 400 rpm, which is higher than the speed with the spark plug installed. This can result in a false diagnosis.
To accurately assess the ignition system, it's essential to:
Motorcycle engines typically use a flywheel rotor type ignition system. The flywheel, united with magnets, rotates to create a magnetic field, inducing current in the fixed coil. This system stores and releases mechanical energy and, in four-stroke engines, uses a non-contact ignition system.
To ensure a strong ignition trigger signal without interference, a trigger gap of about 0.40 mm to 0.80 mm is maintained between the trigger pole and the flywheel rotor. Additionally, the air gap between the cylindrical stator and the flywheel magnet should not exceed 0.75 mm to guarantee normal operation of the magneto ignition and charging system.
Consider a 125cc motorcycle with over 43,000 kilometers on the odometer. After replacing the stator component due to a magneto fault, the electric start failed, although pedal start functioned correctly. Upon inspection, the trigger gap was found to be around 2.0 mm—far exceeding the standard 0.50 mm. After realigning the trigger to the correct gap and reassembling the parts, the electric start operated successfully.
This example illustrates the consequences of not adjusting the trigger gap according to specifications. A large gap can weaken the pulse signal, resulting in insufficient spark strength for starting the engine, especially when using the electric start.
When troubleshooting ignition system failures, never overlook the ignition trigger gap and air gap. Proper maintenance of these aspects can significantly enhance your motorcycle's performance and reliability.
For more detailed information on motorcycle maintenance, you can refer to authoritative sources such as Cycle World and Motorcyclist. These platforms offer a wealth of knowledge on motorcycle care and troubleshooting.
Thank you for your attention, and may these tips lead to more effective maintenance practices and a deeper understanding of your motorcycle's intricacies.
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