Expert: Rich Johnston - 11/26/2008

Question
I recently bought a Honda Rebel CMX 450 and got a machanic to clean the carburetors. After a few days, the symtoms are, engine won't start cold and when I get it to start, it won't idle unless I have the choke fully open. And when I ride with the choke open half way, the bike can't maintain consistent power. It loses power and then revs really high and loses power and then revs back up. So, I tried sea foam and carburetor cleaners...but result is the same. whats really going on ?? Seems like it needs the throttle open in order to stay idle.

Answer
Kren, the low speed jets in the carb are plugged again.  If it ran well when you got it back from mechanic, something is continuing to plug the low speed circuit.  It could be rust in the gas tank getting down into the carbs and plugging the jets.

I'd recommend you go back to the mechanic and explain what's happened.

Regards
Rich