Jez, I have this problem too. I can start it astride but not consistently and in fact can also do it by hand if it's warm. I don't think that it's anything to do with how the bike is set up but the rider's body proportions may play a part.
The problem seems to be that the saddle is fairly well forward in relation to the kickstart position and quite wide at the back. As my leg pushes down, the rear edge of the saddle pushes the thigh outwards and seems to remove all of the 'snap' from the push downwards.
I have fairly damaged knees and I think that there is some sort of psychological 'brake' as soon as the knee joint starts to be pushed out of line sideways.
I don't know what to suggest though apart from practice.
Thanks Rik I didn't think it was me. I had an AJS 18 as sole transport for ten years then a SP400 twinshock for another seven. An ex SAS physio [ I live near their base] thought I'd had polio as my right calf was a lot bigger than my left, still was last time I looked.
I'm used to starting an 850 Commando off the stand with a pillion on the back (they soon learn to fold the footrest up !)It's not a matter of a lack of confidence, strength or balance but the 16H is awkward. A twin does of course fire twice as often but it seems to me that it is the need to sharply accelerate the flywheels which is difficult on the 16H.
If the oil has drained into the sump, it will be next to impossible due to the drag.
