Motorcycle Repair: VFR400 no power under load, air fuel ratio, vfr400 nc30

Question
Hi Rich,

I have a Honda VFR400 NC30, that used to run perfectly then I started having problems when trying to go anywhere. If the bike is in neutral/clutch in I can rev it all the way to the red line with no problem. However, as soon as I put it into gear and try and pull away there is almost no power. I've also noticed that the fuel consumption is pretty bad, but not sure if this is related.

Thanks in advance,
Brad

Answer
Brad, it sounds like the bike is running out of fuel.  With no load on the engine it doesn't take much fuel to get the engine to the redline.  Under load the air fuel ratio has to be spot on to deliver the power you expect. I'd start with a good carb cleaning.  If you pull the choke out and it improves some, it's definately the carbs.

Regards
Rich