Motorcycle Repair: Problem starting a 99 kawasaki ninja 600, kawasaki ninja 600, spark plug wires

Question
The weather has warmed up recently, and I went out to try and start my 99 kawasaki ninja 600 2 weeks ago.   After a lot of turning over, it started, but with backfires, and as soon as I let go of the throttle it dies.   I did this for a few minutes, but no improvement.   It was a little cold (45) that day, so I decided to wait to try it again when the weather was warmer.

So today, I tried to start it again, and it would not start at all, the starter motor is turning, but the engine will not kick in.   

My neighbor came out and helped me check a couple of things:
1) the fuses, and they are all fine.    
2) checked the spark plug wires with a tune up strobe light, and it appears that they are not getting spark.
3) opened up the timing rotor, and it looks fine on visual inspection

So my neighbor thinks it is either the pickup coil, or the IC Igniter.   Do you think it could be anything other than those 2?   If not, what is the best way to test them?

Thanks in advance for your help!
Neal

Answer
Hi Neal,

Was the MC stored over winter?

Any history of repairs?

When was last maintenance?

Any aftermarket modifications?

Describe the appearance of the spark plugs to me.

I return tech files via email. Please include your email address with question as requested. Answer the above questions in detail. I'll be able to better diagnose the problem. I doubt the CDI is defective.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively