Motorcycle Repair: Starting, honda nx650, float bowls

Question
Hi Mark,
   I'll try not to take up to much of your time. I'm new to riding and just bought a "89" Honda NX650 with 6000 miles on it. It's a salvage but fully repaired minus the rearview mirrors, and when it's running it's smooth and no problems. Now that spring is here trying to get it started is nothing but a hassle, it doesn't have a kick start only electric and I kill the batt. before it starts. Which results in me jumping it off my car Batt. With the cables hooked up I can run the starter long enough to get it going, but I'm afraid I might burn out the starter. I'm no mechanic but was wondering if there anything I can do to get it to start without all this hassle. Any info would be greatly appreciated.  

Thanks for your time,
     Tyler

Answer
Hi Tyler,

I suspect the carburetors need cleaned as a result of the fuel in the float bowls have varnished (turned to gel). The pilot jets become obstructed with this gel and the engine will not start easily. An indication of this common condition is they usually start on choke, but stall when choke is turnned off.

Cleaning carbs can be a task if you're not much of a mechanic. I have files on the procedure if you wanna review them. Otherwise, I recommend a pro shop do the work. A typical carb cleaning costs about $200 to 250 in my area.

Buy the service manual for your MC and visit www.bikebandit.com to view michrofiche parts on line. Click "OEM Parts" and select your MC from the menus.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively