Motorcycle Repair: Backfiring, rough throttle, honda cr 125, air fuel mixture

Question
1996 honda cr 125, As I was riding the bike back home, it began to make all kinds of funny popping and backfiring noises.  I cleaned the bike off let it set a day and returned to start it only to have it pop a couple of times and die.  Can't restart it now.  I've only ridden the bike for about an hour after getting it back from the shop because it wouldn't start.  Collin

Answer
Collin,

It would have helped me to know why the MC was in the shop, and any other history of repairs as requested. Please review my instructions where you originally typed your question.

Why was the MC cleaned off? What was on it?

Can you remove the spark plug and describe its appearance? Try cleaning the plug and starting the engine.

If the MC just left the shop, return it and explain what happened. It wasn't ready to leave the shop, or your engine starting/riding habits fouled the plug. In any case, they will either become defensive and blow you off, or make things right.

Backfiring and popping could be something minor such as an ignition problem, fouled plug, or other. Hopefully the air-fuel mixture is not too lean and causing the symptoms. This could lead to crank/piston seizure in severe cases.

Let me know...

Respectfully,
Mark Shively