Cold start trouble on 2006 650 V2

[The hive]

I just picked up a 2006 650 V2 and live in northern Minnesota, it's tough to start in cold temps (low 20s °F) when stored in an unheated garage. Once warm, it runs great, the dealer says no engine heater exists for this model but suggested a bigger battery. Any tips for cold starts or checking choke function?

 

[Truckislife]

Have you tried replacing the battery with a bigger one? That can help a lot, since the cold thickens the oil and makes the starter work harder. Another thing that comes to mind is to add fuel stabilizer or a splash of ethanol-free premium.

 

[outrage juice]

I'm with @Truckislife. A powerful battery and good fuel are the foundation for cold starts. About the choke, the only way to be certain on that V-twin is to pull the cable plungers out of both carburetors and watch them as you operate the lever. A more important tip for a Minnesota winter, though, is to run 0W-40 full synthetic oil. It makes a difference when the engine is trying to turn over in the cold.

 

[marie_xx]

If you dont got a engine heater, upgrading to a high capacity battery with good cold cranking amps is definitely a smart move and yeah, using a fuel stabilizer and fresh winter grade fuel can help

 

[newcat1987]

I'm with @Truckislife. A powerful battery and good fuel are the foundation for cold starts. About the choke, the only way to be certain on that V-twin is to pull the cable plungers out of both carburetors and watch them as you operate the lever. A more important tip for a Minnesota winter, though, is to run 0W-40 full synthetic oil. It makes a difference when the engine is trying to turn over in the cold.

Great tip! I picked up a used '96 Arctic Cat 454 and I have a question, I've been using 10W-30 so far, does switching to 0W-40 really help that much in deep cold, or just in extreme cases? Trying to get it ready for some chilly mountain rides soon!