Motorcycle Repair: Carburetor problems, honda nighthawk, air jets

Question
Shortly after toping off fuel the engine died at stop light And when re started only would run at relatively high throttle settings. My thought was bad fuel was purchased and idle jets were clogged Draining fuel later produced only clean fuel with no trace of water. I checked air filter and found filter out of place with retaining clip loose in air filter.  After cooling  engine refused to start except with starting fluid. I don't think carburetor is clogged any Ideas as to what is wrong?
           Thanks           Earl Whiteley
Bike is CB250  Honda nighthawk 1993 30 000 miles

Answer
Earl,

if the bike runs on starting fluid then
you must have a fuel or air problem.

-Check the fuel petcock valve and
see if fuel is getting to the carbs.

-Check for any air leaks around intake.

-If all else fails you may have to
clean the idle/air jets.
-With the air filter loose, it could
have plugged an air passage in the carbs.

-Check your spark plugs for fouling also
because of the loose air filter.
-Check compression.