Motorcycle Repair: Engine cuts off during idol, air mixture, fuel mixture

Question
I have a 1977 Honda 550four. I love my bike and everything has been okay so far, but recently sometimes my bike will shut off when I am in idol or when I disengage the engine via the clutch. I want to learn how to fix my bike myself. Do you know what is or what could be wrong with my beauty? Any and all help will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Ken, it could be timing or it could be a poor idle fuel mixture.  I'd start by giving the bike a tune up, adjust valves, cam chain, replace plugs, points, condensor, set ignition timing, sync carbs and adjust the idle air mixture.  Make sure the air filter is clean.  This will usually take care of most common causes of poor idling.

Regards
Rich