Motorcycle Repair: Idles fine cuts out with throttle or in gear, bike tune, new oil

Question
Hey Chris thanks for being out there for guys like me. Just picked up a 99 Intruder that hasn't been run in 1yr. I put new oil in, changed the plugs and charged the battery. And the bike started up fine, idles fine but when I throttle back it dies and when I try to put it in gear it dies. Also I was wondering, is there any reason that the oil should not stay in the engine for 6 months (just wondering if the previous owner might have run it out of oil because it was pretty dry)? I was about to check the carb and then I realized I have no idea how to properly clean it. Thanks Bro.

Answer
Hi Bob.
 There is no reason that it should have been out of oil, that I can think of.
 As far as the carbs, they do need to be cleaned properly as well as the tank may need resealing to prevent repeat contamination of the fuel system.

 On the dieing issue, it sounds like you have a bad sidestand cutoff relay.  Either replace it or bypass it.

To properly maintain the bike, you should get yourself a repiar manual for it.  They are full of tons of very valuable information regarding the bike, tune-up specs, etc., and so are worth their weight in gold.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON