Motorcycle Repair: 1999 yamaha r6 inconsistent idle, gas millage, intake leaks

Question
I have a 1999 yamaha r6 that will not idle evenly.  Occasionally the bike will run normal for a minute or so before idling inconsistently again.  What should I do? change plugs, fuel filter, etc.

Answer
Hi Tyler,

Does the bike run ok when not idling?
If the plugs haven't been changed in a while then its a good idea to change them (don't forget to gap them). Same with the fuel filter...change it if its been a while.

However I would make sure you have a new, clean air filter and also look for intake leaks around the carbs. If it is not an obvious intake leak, then when the bike is running, you can mist some water around the carbs and see if it gets sucked in anywhere.

I would try running a half bottle of "SeaFoam" engine treatment through the tank. This will clean the carbs out.

Lastly, do a carb sync.
A carb sync ensures that you are getting the same vacuum on all cylinders. If the sync is off, then it can cause poor performance, poor gas millage and inconsistent idling.