I am new here and just purchased a 2004 Sporstman 500. I have two questions. One, what is normal when it comes to starting it? It has been warm enough that the choke is not needed but it seems that I have to turn it over more than I feel I should for it to start.
Second, is it normal to hear a small clunk when I start to take off. I know this is engagement but is it normal?

Thanks for all your help and look forward to learning some things...

 

clunk is probably helix in secondary clutch

 

welcome to the world of wheelin! sorry no help on the questions

 

Yep, welcome. Your bike is probably set up to run a little rich from the factory for all around conditions. If you can get to the fuel/air screw (some models have a tamper proof plug that has to be drilled out) then you could make a slight adjustment to it and starting would probably improve a little. The sound you hear is normal with the EBS system, it is something to get used to. Kblazk had it right with the helix in the clutches. There are rollers in there that shift between the helix and make the clunk, if you do a search on this site, you will find many posts about the noise and I have given full explanation in a few of them. The klunk is most notable at slow speeds and take-offs. Also, when starting the motor, do not give it gas while trying to crank it, it can cause flooding and hard starts, alot of people have a habit of giving the thumb throttle a few raps when starting and that will cause problems. Hope I have answered your questions.

 

Thanks for the replies....