GuitarMan

Hi!

My bike have been sitting in the shed for a week. When I started it, I didn't put the choke on and it started right on!

I think it's pretty cool for a 1983 bike but I'm wondering if the reason for this would be running a bit to rich.

What do you think about that?

Thanks

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Buickguy

There are a number of reasons it could start without the choke. The ambient temperature is one factor. Did you turn the gas on for a while or leave it in the on position? That could give and extrat bit of fuel if some seeped past the float valve.
Does your carb have the accelerator pump and did you twist the throttle before starting? that could give an extra shot of fuel.
I'd check the plugs before I concluded that the bike is running rich.

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1987 CMX250C Rebel

2002 FSC600 SilverWing

1983 Yamaha Midnight Virago XV920MK

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GuitarMan

Thank you Brickguy!

All I did was to turn on the petcock, turn on the switch, turn on the key, and press the ignition button.

I guess I'll have to check the plug...

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PhilipJ

... so does this series of posts mean I shouldn't worry if my '09 Rebel (1850 miles) always needs a bit of choke to stay started for the first few minutes?

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flitecontrol

^ Yes, some bikes are colder natured than others. If you have to leave the choke on for it to run, something's not right.

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I'm keepin' all the left over parts. I'm gonna use 'em to build another bike!

2001 Rebel 250, 1989 Vulcan 750
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KDReeves

That having been said, Flitecontrol, am I correct in remembering that the mid-eighties Rebels often need a longer-than-you-might-think choke period after a cold start? I thought I remember reading that my '87 450 was a prime candidate for needing a good solid couple of minutes at moderate choke, which you gradually back off, if you're riding after a few days of sitting. I generally back down to no choke and toodle along after a couple miles, but if that still seems much, I'd be interested to have my incorrect assumption fixed!

( I fully admit I'm a noobocycle! )

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'87 Rebel 450 / www.KDReeves.com

Guba

Choke is one of those things that can vary from bike to bike and is influenced a lot by ambient temperatures. I only run the choke to warm up the engine to the point where it will stay running after the choke is turned off. There is no set time period! If you run it on choke for a minute and turn it off and the bike stays running, then you've accomplished the goal. It's not so much of a "year of bike" setting. It's more of a "whatever it takes for my bike", setting. You have to learn what your bike requires by experimentation.

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Some days beer tastes good...other days beer tastes better!

'07 Rebel 250 26,000 miles

M00SEnSquirrel

my i have an '07 250 and when i lived in AZ i never touched the choke and sense i moved back to NY if i start it once a week i dont need the choke but if it sits it gets a little temperamental at times

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KnoXouT

I have an 87 CMX450 that never needs any choke. I don't even have my choke cable connected right now.

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dcarpkc

Quick thought on the choke. I have came across several carbs with seized enrichening valves. I cycle my choke often even if I do not use it to start. Bike starts fine without it. Remember the old addage "use it or lose it". Also, if you come accross a seized valve boil the carb body in water for several minutes. easiest way I have found to get them out.

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