My Rapide isn't the easiest to start but 3 kicks when cold is about normal...I have only been successful once when using the decompressor and I envy all who have mastered that technique. Any tips?
PS My bike loves it's chokes to start and run for about 2-3 minutes when cold. When hot it likes the chokes just to start, not needed to run
Watch the video in post #30 by Glenliman. If you click the settings "cog" at the bottom of the video window you can set the playback speed to 0.25. You can see how Glen co-ordinates the kick and decompressor lever release near the bottom of the kickstart swing.
Re chokes needed: Sounds as if you might have a too weak setting somewhere. (Pilot setting?) Or maybe you live in a very cold place.