Motorcycle Repair: carbs on a gsx-r, fuel line, fuel system

Question
hay falcon, I have a 1998 GSX-R and I didn't ride it for about 8 months. I just started to ride it again. The problem is that I need to have the choke on in order for the bike to run. I filled it up with gas and some fuel injecter cleaner and I drove it till the gas was gone and it still runs rough. I am thinking that the carbs need to be cleaned. I would really like some input on my situation. eddie

Answer
Hi Eddie.

You are thinking in the right direction on this one.  What has happened is that over the 8 months that you had the bike in storage, varnish built up in the entire fuel system.

Definitely get the carbs properly cleaned, but also replace the fuel line and reseal the tank.  The varnish will have infected the entire fuel system so needs to be either cleaned out or, in the case of your tank, sealed out of the system.  resealing the tank will accomplish the last part of that.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON