Motorcycle Repair: honda shadow 600, honda shadow 600, honda dealer

Question
Falcon,
Just bought bike 2001 in storage 2 years with 84 miles on it starts fine won't stay running idles rough for less than 30-35 seconds giving it gas kills it. honda dealer says carbs need to be cleaned i'm 30 miles from that shop. any suggestions...

Answer
Hi Lisa.
 Well, the carbs definitely need to be properly cleaned.

Since the bike spent 2 years in storage, the fuel that was in it evaporated, leaving a residue that we call "varnish" throughout the fuel system, tank and carbs mostly.  It needs to be removed from the carbs and sealed out or removed from the tank.
 Hunt around for a more local shop.  One that does work on Hondas and get them to clean the carbs.  It will be cheaper than the dealership and probably quicker.  You will also need to reseal or clean the tank (resealing is easier) to keep the contaminant residue from getting into the new fuel.

Good luck.
FALCON