Michael, I would disagree that these engines are designed to start with a few flips. Most of these engines are industrial engines converted to use in planes. Those engines are not hand started but employ a pull rope starter (in most cases). This isnt to say that most engines can't be hand started because most can. Still using a starter is a completely proper alternative. A cold engine likes to be wet for starting. Choke until fuel is obvious then open the choke, add a few clicks of throttle and start. If its very cold you may need to partial choke, start and release the choke. When warm its not usually necessary to choke but warm applies to the engine and not the ambient temp. Transition and midrange can sometimes be a problem for smooth operation because most industrial engines are run at or near full throttle. So this sometimes translates into our Plane use, but not always. Depends on how much extra work has been done with regard to timing, porting etc.
Regards BobH.