Motorcycle Repair: engine fades on opening throttle, triumph tiger 900, grey powder

Question
Hi Chris - ref triumph tiger 900 1998 - was running ok at high revs 8000 - then decided to fade, thought it was ignigtion coil - have replaced one - also cleaned air filter and float bowels of carbs - lots of pink grey powder. also cleaned top part of carbs - new plugs as well.runs ok to 40 mph then when opening throttle, engine dies and nearly stalls.  

Answer
Hi Martin.

 The pink-grey powder concerns me.  There is probably a huge contamination of it in the carbs.  It may require a complete cleaning of the carbs and check throughout the fuel system.

 In addition, if the carbs haven't been synchronized in more than a year, then they are probably due.

Start with that and let me know what you find.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON