Motorcycle Repair: Yamaha 650 Twin timing, carb synchronizer, yamaha 650

Question
Chris,

I just picked up a 1980 Yamaha 650 Special II from my grandfather. Totally cleaned the carbs - its breathing real well. However, it pops quite a bit on low idle and decel. I think its the timing. I've timed all sorts of car engines but never a motorcycle. I see a "T" (TDC I presume) and "F" on a plate. At idle now (~1200 RPM) the flywheel mark sits just to the right of the "F". However, I have no clue where to go from here. HELP!

Answer
Hi Lanker.
 With bikes that have electronic ignition, generally, the timing will correct itself with the carbs being in synch.  You need a carb synchronizer and the repair manual.  You may also want to do the valves as well.  They could be in need of adjustment as well.  As a matter of fact, you may want to start with the valve adjustment and see what happens from there.

 If the backfiring continues, then the carbs may need to be synchronized, which needs doing every few months of riding, anyway.

 All of the specs and instructions for that bike (especially the specs) are in the repair manual, which can be gotten either at the dealership, any decent shop, or online.

Let me know what you find.
Good luck.
FALCON