Motorcycle Repair: 1986 RM125, axle arrangement, oil seals

Question
Hi, I have just rebuilt the bottom end of my 1986 RM125 (new bearings, oil seals, gaskets, big and small end bearing) and it now runs for the first time since I’ve had it. However, it is very hard to start when cold. Once been started once its fine and starts first kick but when it’s cold it’s hard to start again. If I squirt a bit of fuel down the spark plug hole it starts after a few kicks. Why is this?
Also, I’m confused about the front axle arrangement. The axle goes through the clamp on the right fork and is supposed to screw into the left. I cannot install it this way as the right fork is pointing away from the wheel and needs to be pulled inwards in order for the axle to touch the thread on the left fork. Are both forks supposed to be in the correct position and not require to be pulled into alignment for the wheel to be tightened up?
Thanks very much, John

Answer
John,You have two dilemmas so lets tackle the first one.The choke circuit may not be working correctly. Take the carb bowl off and unscrew the choke plunger blow carb cleaner through it then air. The bowl has a tiny orifice in the choke passage that can get plugged up. Its in the bottom of the bowl off to the side and there is a passage in the wall of the bowl so that the choke pick up tube can get fuel. Use a small wire or needle and make sure the hole is open the shoot some carb cleaner through it and air,make sure its open then reistall everything. Also the forks do twist and get out of alignment without the axle holding it in place.They do spin around and get misaligned easily.Pull everything back into place and feed the axle through. Make sure you use a wheel brg grease on the axle tube so it will be easier to remove the next time.