käynnistyspoljin

Käynnistyspoljin, often referred to as a kickstarter or kick pedal, is a lever mechanism used to manually start an internal combustion engine, most commonly found on motorcycles, mopeds, and some older types of cars. It operates by engaging a starter gear attached to the engine's crankshaft. When the rider or operator pushes down on the pedal, it rotates a shaft connected to a gear that meshes with a ring gear on the crankshaft or flywheel. This rotation turns the engine over, drawing in fuel and air, and initiating the combustion cycle.

The use of käynnistyspoljin has largely been superseded by electric starters in modern vehicles due to their convenience and ease of use. However, kickstarters are still found on many smaller displacement motorcycles, off-road bikes, and vintage models. They are favored in some off-road racing applications as they are typically lighter and more reliable than electric starters, and can still be operated even with a dead battery. Learning to use a käynnistyspoljin effectively can require some practice, as the technique involves a coordinated push and sometimes specific foot placement to ensure proper engagement and a strong enough rotation to start the engine. The feeling of starting an engine with a käynnistyspoljin is often considered a more visceral and connected experience by enthusiasts.