Motorcycle Repair: Carb problems, speed jets, honda shadow

Question
Hi Rich  I have a 1985 Honda Shadow VT750C That seems to run lean.  I have to drive with the choke on slightly or the bike backfires whenever I let off the throttle.  I figure that cleaning the carbs would be first to do but how can I dial them in after.  (the bike has sat quite alot)  is there anywhere I can get info more detailed than in the Clymer book?  Any advise would be great
Thanks

Pat


Answer
You are right Pat.  You'll need to clean the carbs.  Be sure to use a copper wire to poke through the low speed jets to make sure they are clean.  Just soaking them won't get them clean.  You will need a set of gages to balance the carbs.  Theres' no way I know of by trial and error to get them adjusted with out gages.

Regards
Rich