Won't Start

[Nikoru]

I just purchased a used '05 zx50, and while it worked fine when I got it, I can't seem to get it to start on my own.  I follow the instructions in the manual and how I was shown:  I turn the key to on, hold onto the rear break pedal while pressing the start button...and then it fizzles out.  I was able to start it only a few times, which was incredibly difficult; as soon as I went to rotate the throttle, it would most always fizzle out.  The same happens if I try to start with the kick start.
I'm pretty sure all the buttons are in the correct positions.  My headlight and turn signal switches are off.
Could it just be that I was starting and trying to start it too many times in a short period?
Any recommendations?  Thanks for any help.

[zombie]

If it starts is a good sign. Have you tried the choke? you didn't mention it. It's on the side of the carb . Mine won't start w/out it. Could also be starved for fuel?

[chubbyrockstar]

Could be a dirty fuel filter, Dirty Carb Jet, Fuel lines collapsing or somethin easy like that.

also make sure you dont wear the batery down too much trying the electric start. if you havent started it in a while the bendix in the starter and the kickstart might be in need of a greasejob while your at it

[benhogan73]

I just got mine running today.

1.  Pulled the plug and set the gap.
2.  Drained the old gas and put in new.
3.  Drained the bowl.  There is a screw at the bottom edge of the carburetor.
4.  Used the kick start.
5.  Adjusted the air screw on the carb.

I think the old gas and spark plug gap had the largest effect on operation.

Good luck.

Tim