So today I didn't make it all the way up a long steep climb. I ended up most of the way down the climb so the bike was on its side for a couple minutes before I got back to it. It didn't want to start right away so I had to crank it a bit and then open the throttle and crank. It fired and all was fine. I know that it flooded, but why? And then what is the best way to deal with it? Just interested. I have the pumper carb. Thanks!

 

You generally can start a flooded engine by opening the throttle fully open while cranking...or kicking. More air to mix with the already fuel rich condition. The engine floods because the fuel in the float bowl is now trying to flow up the needle jet while the bike is/was on its side...or upside down. The usually added temperature at the time of a crash only aggravates the issue caused by flooding. Even with a CV carb, a flooded engine benefits from opening the throttle plate as the cranking engine will still lift the vacuum operated slide, allowing more air.

 

1+ on what TNC says, I've started more flooded bikes and 4 wheelers (usually other peoples) by simply holding the throttle open for a few cranks. If you have a pumper carb don't flog just hold it open.