What does it mean when smoke comes out of my exhaust when I first start my motorcycle?

Question

it's a 1993 yamaha secs II and only a little bit of whitish smelly smoke... I guess the smoke has a tiny bit of a dark tint to it... Only happens when I first start it and lasts for about 3 or 4 seconds

Answer 1

sounds like oil leaking past the valve guides into the cylinder when the bike isn't running. then when you crank the bike, the oil is burned off as the cylinder is fired. its common on older motors, whether its a car or bike. not really much to worry about. valve job would fix the problem. or just live with it.

Answer 2

Yup, valve guides leaking is right on, cheaper to live with it. Its really not a serious problem, just start your bike behind a tree until the smoke clears, and keep your oil clear and not over filled in the crank.

Answer 3

Try thicker motor oil..