Motorcycle Repair: engine power?, jumper cables, suzuki 250

Question
I just bought my first bike, a 2003 Suzuki 250 sold as new, but my question is probably basic.  A few days ago I noticed the hose from the carburator was disconnected in a couple places.  I reconnected and tried to start, but nothing happened at all.  After letting it sit awhile, now it will start w/ choke on, but the choke needs to stay on or throttle on or it dies.  After starting it a couple times, it won't start again (at this point if it were my car, I'd think the battery is dead, because it sounds like it wants to start, but can't fire)  Any thoughts or suggestions.  I want to get it back to the dealership, but I'm not sure how to get it there.  Thanks,
Lanny

Answer
Lanny,
 I'm not sure what you mean about a hose be dissconnected at a couple of places.  There is an "overflow" hose that is meant to be unattached and just hangs downward, usually routed between the engine case and the swing arm pivot.  This is there to let excess fuel drain from the carburator if it overfills.  Other than that all hoses and rubber boots should be firmly attached to there destinations.  I'm sorry I can't be of more help w/o completly understanding the situation.  Oh, by the way, If an engine turns but doesn't catch, the battery is most probably fine, it is infact turning the starter motor.  The fact that the engine won't start would have to deal with an ignition problem (getting a spark at the plug) or a fuel delivery problem (carburator OR fuel injetion problem or lack of fuel at all).  Just thought I'd let you know so you don't go out and buy a $60 battery or hook up jumper cables in that situation.

Hope this helps,
Mike