Motorcycle Repair: 1983 Yamaha Virago, yamaha virago, consistent problem

Question
Thanks for taking the time to answer my question Collin.  I have an '83 Virago that I bought from a co-worker a few weeks ago.  It has less than 5000 actual miles on it but I'm already having problems with it.  Main problem, it won't start.  The starter turns but the engine doesn't catch and start.  This has been a pretty consistent problem though I have been able to get it going a few times.  Problem 2 I checked the spark plugs earlier today to see if that was the problem with the engine not starting and now the bike is backfiring when I try to start it.  I'm wondering if I did something to the plugs that causing this, it has never happened before.  

Answer
U have a carb issue bro.  Remove em', don't seperate them from each other though, and clean thoroughly!  Make sure the jets r not pluged or plugging.  Good luck and let me know!  We may need to further our investigation, but for now that's a good start.