Motorcycle Repair: 1986 Honda Elite 80 Carb, honda elite 80, honda tech

Question
My 1986 Honda Elite 80 starts very hard.  If the engine is cold, I have to put
my hand over the carb to "choke it" and get it started. Once it is started, it
idles rough.  I have to set the idle adjustment very high to keep it running.  
Once the engine is warm, I can turn the idle adjustment back down to normal
but the idle is not steady.  It will idle steady...speed up a little...then go back
to normal on its own.  I have replaced the carb and electric choke but no
changes.  I have cleaned the plastic filter in the bottom of the fuel tank. I have
put fresh gas in the tank.  I have been told that whatever tells the electric
choke to operate is not working. I am out of ideas.  Any suggestions you have
would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Kevin,

I agree that the choke is not working properly.

Visit "www.bikebandit.com" to view parts microfiche. You'll be able to see the carburetor and related parts.

I recommend that you get a copy of the service manual and learn about troubleshooting and maintaining you Elite. The manual will pay for itself with the first work you perform. You may find a copy at your local library.

Otherwise, I recommend that you have a local Honda tech inspect this problem for you.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively