Motorcycle Repair: smelling gas, fuel leaks, exhaust pipes

Question
2001 Yamaha V Star
I Smell exhaust or gas very strong when at traffic light or stopped while engine is running, maybe something is loose or problem with carb Or exhaust pipes need some sort of gasket , I  

Answer
Hi Greg.
 Well, there is a very distinct difference between the smell of exhaust and the smell of fuel.

Here are a few things to do to find the problem and eliminate it;

1)  Insure that all exhaust seals are tight and all exhaust system bolts are seated and torqued correctly.

2)  While the bike is running and on the centerstand, look at the fuel system, carbs and airbox.  See if the is any fuel dripping down from any of the system.

3)  Make sure that there is no fuel that has been sucked into the airbox.  This would account for a fuel smell with no outward fuel leaks.

Start with those and let me know what you find.
Good luck.
FALCON