anyone had any probs with the ds650 starting in the colder weather? Here in wisconsin it has been starting hard anywher under about 40 degrees. Today it was -10 with wwind chill and it wouldnt start at all..not even almost start. I read that the 00' ds's had a bad carb so they put new ones on the newer modles. if this is true, can i get one for my 00' ds650? Was there ever a recall on the 00 carbs?

00' ds650

 

As I was told, they didn't change the carb. It's a problem with the gas slushing around when jumping(kinda like in a race car's oil pan), they installed a baffle in the carb. That's the only difference between 00 & 01, and a $700 markup also. You can buy this baffle at your local dealer about 15 bucks I think. As for the cold starting, I have the same problem. I don't know the fix yet for I have only owned it for 6 weeks now. I'll have to twick it alittle here and there and see if I can get it.....

 

It's 20 degrees right now and I just went and started my bike, actually I was doing some work on it, but any way it started up on the 3rd attempt. If I just sit there and crank & crank & crank it never starts, but if I pause for 10-15 secs between attempts it fires right up everytime.
Try it and let me know

 

mine started the other day at 12 degrees.it took about 15 attempts,but it did start.

 

300exSTER,
There is one other thing that is different from the 2000 model carb to the 2001 model carb. There is a long spring that is too short in the 2000 carb. The dealer can stretch it to the right lenght. Since I put a Woods Stage II kit with there 45mm pressure carb, It starts great in cold weather. But I had the same problem with the smaller carb un til they fixed that spring and then it wasnt quite as bad. But them other guys are right, only crank it for about 10 seconds then wait a few seconds before trying it again. Good luck

 

so your saying that the spring did make a noticable difference in the cold weather starting?

 

chop,

Yes , It did help but it was still hard to start , but not nearly as bad . The spring needs to be fixed regardless. When I had mine stretched the 2001 models were not out yet but now you can order the spring and get the correct length. By the way, how do you like your 15 tooth sprocket? I ordered one from Sprocket Specialists but have'nt got it yet.

 

I have the same problem with starting in cold weather, but mine just don't started at all. I'm going to try to wait a few seconds before starting. The main question i have is what is the easiest way I can soup up my DS650, when your dealing with zero mechanic skills?

 

Shamen555, One of the best things to do to a DS is a new exhaust system and the CDI ignition box. That rev-limiter has to go!! Thats about $700. worth of easy bolt on mods.

 

i have stage 1 with the k&n filter on the carb and i have to squirt just a little starting fluid on the filter when its below freezing outside or it wont start