Starting a vintage Whizzer Bike, especially when it’s cold, has its own unique ritual. For my 2005 NE-5 Whizzer, which I affectionately call Oscar, getting him going is a process that’s become second nature. With just over 100 miles on the clock, Oscar is still relatively fresh, and here’s how I bring him to life.
The key to a successful cold start for my Whizzer bike is the choke and pedal positioning. I always ensure the choke is fully engaged right from the get-go. Equally important is the position of the right-hand pedal. I find that placing it at the 1 or 2 o’clock position, when viewed from the bike’s right side, is optimal.
With these preparations, a single, firm push on the right pedal is all it usually takes to start him up. However, initially, the engine’s rhythm sounds a bit off. It feels like it’s firing every fourth revolution instead of the usual second. This “cold start miss,” as I call it, gives a distinct putt……putt……putt……putt sound, quite different from the regular cadence.
As Oscar warms up, I gradually ease off the choke. You can hear the engine responding, picking up its normal, steady putt-putt-putt-putt rhythm. It’s a satisfying transition. It generally takes about a minute of fast idling before I can trust Oscar to idle on his own while I get ready for the ride – helmet on, gloves on, the usual pre-ride checks.
Once I’m set, I release the choke completely, push Oscar off the stand, and I’m off, four-stroking down Eyota Road. Even a short ride on this Whizzer bike is a treat. Today’s 4-mile jaunt was particularly enjoyable. I even managed to hit 26 MPH cresting Wadena Hill, a noticeable improvement from my previous 22-23 MPH.
I often wonder about pushing the speed limits on my Whizzer. If I really leaned into it, minimizing wind resistance on a level, windless stretch, could I hit 35 MPH? Maybe. But 45 MPH? That seems highly unlikely. Even with the intake and exhaust restrictions removed and the valve timing advanced – modifications I’ve already made – I doubt it would reach even 38 MPH. Still, the current performance is more than enough to enjoy the ride.
Cheers to the simple joys of Whizzer biking!
