Motorcycle Repair: Rough start and wont idle, routine maintainence, fuel issues

Question
I run an fj1200 and it won't start using the choke when cold and then it will only start with no choke and I give it some thottle, then I need to keep the RPMs up until it warms sufficiently then it will idle fine. I have cleaned the carbs and checked all fuel issues and new plugs. Any ideas?

Answer
Hi David.
 Here are some things to check;

1)  Choke mechanism, including cable.  Something could be sticking or the cable could be broken or hanging up.

2)  When was the last routine maintainence?  If the carbs are overdue for synchro or the bike needs other routine maintainence done, that could be part or all of the problem.

3)  Valve gap and timing.  When was that last done?  Is it due or overdue?  If you don't know when it was last done, it could be time to do it again.

Those are the things that come immediately to mind.
Good luck.
FALCON