Motorcycle Repair: Carb stabiltiy, yamaha 650 xs, petcocks

Question
I have a '75 Yamaha 650 XS.  What is the best way to handle prevention of old fuel accumulating in the carb?  I was told that one way is when you are ready to stop the engine for the day,to close off the petcocks and let the fuel pass through the carb until the engine dies. I ride only occassionally and the bike sits for a few weeks at a time. I want to eliminate 'bad gas' problems. Advice please.

Answer
Hi Harold.
 Since the bike sits for weeks at a time, if it is for more than 3 or 4 weeks at a time, I would drain the excess gas (and use it in the car) then refuel just prior to going out.  Also, burn up the fuel that's in the floats by running the engine till it dies.
 If it is only for 3 or 4 weeks, then just shut of the fuel and when you next start up the bike use a fuel treatment (that has jet fuel as a base or additive).

 In addition to that, you should pull and properly clean the carbs once a year.

Good luck.
FALCON