Yes, the earliest motorcycles did rely on push starting, also known as pedal starting or bump starting. In the early days of motorcycles, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many motorcycles were equipped with single-cylinder engines. These engines did not have electric starters like modern motorcycles do.
To start the motorcycle, the rider would typically push the motorcycle forward while in gear (usually first or second gear) with the clutch engaged. As the motorcycle gained momentum from the pushing, the rider would release the clutch suddenly, which would engage the engine and turn the crankshaft. This sudden engagement would create the rotational force required to start the engine.
Push starting was a common method used to start motorcycles during this era. It required physical effort from the rider to get the motorcycle rolling and the timing of releasing the clutch had to be precise. It was not always an easy task, especially if the motorcycle had a large or stubborn engine.
As technology advanced, electric starters were introduced, eliminating the need for push starting. Electric starters made starting motorcycles much easier and more convenient for riders, as they could simply press a button to start the engine. Today, almost all motorcycles are equipped with electric starters, making push starting a rarity except in certain situations, such as a dead battery or mechanical failure of the starter system.