Motorcycle Repair: Trouble starting 2004 CRF 250R, crf 250r, kick starter

Question
I recently bought a 2004 CRF 250r. The problem I have is it won't start with the kick starter either when it is hot or cold. I got it to start by kicking 1 time. However when I push start the bike it starts right up. When the bike is running it is excellent never hesitates and has plenty of power. I tried changing the spark plug but that didn't help. When I kick the bike it's almost like there is no spark at all.

Any help would be appreciated
John

Answer
My experience is with older pre-82 hondas so I can be too specific. It sounds like you have a weak mag coil.  When you push the bike the engine spins faster than when you try to kick start it so it puts out more voltage to the coils.  That's just a guess but that's where I'd start to look if it were sitting in my garage.

Good luck
Rich