Motorcycle Repair: backfiring, honda shadow spirit, drag pipes

Question
Hi Mark,
I have a 2004 Honda Shadow Spirit that has been backfiring on decel since the day I picked it up at the dealer in Aug 2003. The stock answer is that they are set lean at the factory to meet epa standards. The problem has only gotten worse to the point of running terrible until complete warm up and then still backfiring on decel. I have turned the mixture screws in to try and richen the mixture but it doesn't seem to help much. I have also checked all intake and exhaust fittings for tightness. Checked plugs, air filter, etc. (only 1700 miles). I am considering replacing the exhaust pipes with Cobra 2' drag pipes and re-jetting the carbs. Does this sound like a fix to you? Is there anything else I can do before putting out $350 to fix something that should have been done properly at the factory in the first place! My 1988 Shadow never gave me one ounce of trouble before I lost it in a fire in 2003. Thanks for any help and/or advice.
Don

Answer
Hi Don,

Some backfiring is considered normal with v-twin engines. The information about EPA's Clean Air Act and emmissions is accurate.

The backfiring may possibly be corrected with aftermarket parts and correct carburetor tuning. Again, some backfiring is expected. Excessive backfiring indicates a problem. An occasional pop is normal.

Keep in mind that drop in jet kits may require additional tuning to dial in the carbs.

Visit www.motorcycle-USA.com's Message Board and chat with other Shadow owners and their experiences with this problem. Friendly and helpful people there.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively