The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word RECOILS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "kicks" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case kicks = recoils.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does RECOILS mean?
RECOILS noun- A starting or falling back; a rebound; a shrinking.
- The state or condition of having recoiled.
- The energy transmitted back to the shooter from a firearm which has fired. Recoil is a function of the weight of the weapon, the weight of the projectile, and the speed at which it leaves the muzzle.
- An escapement in which, after each beat, the scape-wheel recoils slightly.