Motorcycle Repair: 2001 Suzuki Marauder, float bowls, electric ignition

Question
Hi Mark,My name is Bob Conklin I own a 2001 Suzuki Marauder which I purchased April of 2003,it was a leftover model and had 2/10 of a mile on it.
My question:The bike is hard to start lately and requires at least six tries on the electric ignition before she kicks over,I've also been having trouble with the bike stalling at traffic lights and it not getting power when I give it the throttle.I've been told it could be the carburetor.Is this something I can take care of myself inexpensively or will it require service because I really don't want to lose any riding time. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Bob,

The symptoms described is common with varnishing of the carbs. Gasoline in the float bowls gums or gels (varnishes) with time and obstructs carb passageways and jets.

A good indication of this is the engine starts and idles with choke, but stalls when choke is released.

Send me your emaila s requested. I'll return carb cleaning files. Review the information and decide if you can perform the work at home. Send to: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively