I have a carb cbr 600. Typically, I'd get it serviced every 6 months, like clockwork, ex. oil change, new plugs, whatever the mechanic told me it needed. Really rough last 3+ years and it's been in storage. Got it out a few months ago, neighbor took the tank off and somewhat cleaned it and I bought a new battery. I nor the neighbor knows enough about bikes to do any more than that. I put in some fresh gas and it makes a clean attempt to start, just doesn't fully turn over. No weird sounds, no smoke, no nothing. It ran perfectly before storage. Just by listening to it, nothing off is happening to give any indication if its not fully turning over because of spark plugs or carbs. Spark plugs are pretty simple to change out and they are cheap. Carbs on the other hand, after getting quotes I'm told it could cost anywhere from $400-$600 and I just don't have that kind of extra money laying around. My question to you is, from what you know, could you possibly guess as to why its not fully turning over? Would you recommend putting some seafoam in the gas tank (and would that even matter since it can't yet turn all the way on)? I'm listening so anyone with any suggestions (except the customary smart mouth troll who has nothing better to do), I'd appreciate it. Thanks. Skye

 

Well if its having difficulty turning over, its not the carbs/plugs/fuel. Usually a hard turn over is either a low battery (if you just bought a new one and charged it, this is unlikely, but DOA batteries do exist) or bad contact/grounds. I'd start by cleaning the battery contacts, and those on the starter.

Usually for an engine that hasn't ran in a long time, I'll pull the plugs and put ~1 tbsp oil in each cylinder and crank by hand (or you can put it in gear and push the bike around a bit) to lube the cylinders, this may also help your cranking (think about it, no oil on the cylinders = lots of friction = more work for the starter). You will likely need the carbs cleaned, seafoam likely won't be enough to clean the crud that is likely in your carbs.

 

I know that with the F4 you can start it the same way you would if it was a flooded engine and it clears the carbs of all of the old spent gas. But I would recommend putting the oil on the cylinders, it will reduce wear on the walls and after you get it running than add a bit of techron for a few tanks. Maybe a video of whats happening can better aid us in helping you.