Why have kick starters gone extinct?

[LongRanger_imp]

Every review I've read about the SR400 suggests it's very easy to start with the kick starter -- you can even start it with your hand instead of your foot. But I agree, the lack of electric start caused me to look elsewhere when considering a lightweight bike for my lady.

Were they even sold in California? I've seen several around here, among the myriad and ubiquitous HD's and R1200GS's.