Last few mornings since I replaced my spark plugs- its really hard to start.

Choke on all the way, no gas. Maybe its cuz I bought the cheap champion spark plugs. When it runs- it runs great.

Ended up putting it on prime and then starting. It could just be because temps are in the 40's and 50's now.

Is this normal?

Sounds like you may have a fuel petcock issue.If it works on prime.
-CS

Check connection to spark plugs.
Possible gas leaking/evaporating from carbs so prime is needed to fill them back up.

(And people wonder why I pay for Brisk spark plugs so I usually start without choke and just got 67 mpg!)

At least you admitted to being cheap. At least get NGK or iridium plugs. Buck or two more. Never heard people going cheap for Champion. Maybe not gaped right. maybe not right plug length or temperature rating.

Could be the plug. It starts eaiser on prime.

If i'm holding on the starter it sometimes screeches. is that normal?

Edit: Is it normal the colder it gets the harder to start?

QuoteEdit: Is it normal the colder it gets the harder to start?

for pretty much every carbureted vehicle since ever.

Quote from: BassWoW on September 11, 2012, 02:13:39 PM
Could be the plug. It starts easier on prime.

If I'm holding on the starter it sometimes screeches. is that normal?

Edit: Is it normal the colder it gets the harder to start?

Agree with Funderb.  Most carb bikes are cold blodded, especially air cooled ones.  It's like having a car with the thermostat stuck open.  Takes FOREVER to warm up.  You may also be slightly lean, but my bet are the plugs.  Go with NGK...it's OEM.

I have a Mazda Protege.  Went with cheap AC-Delco plugs, and it ran like hell.  Took to a shop.  The guy charged me $40 (got off easy), and said "buy NGK for most asian engines".  He changed the plugs back, and it ran like a dream.

when was the last valve check? hard cold starting is a telltale sign of exhaust valves getting tight.......

A few jobs ago back when I was an auto engineer, I worked with the Champion guys over in Europe. These guys are top-notch and the other premium spark plug makers (NGK, Bosch, etc.) have nothing on them. Did you pick a thermal index for your Champion plugs that corresponds to the stock NGKs'? Also, did you gap your plugs to spec? These two things will make a difference, especially on a cold start.