78 XS400 Cold Start Problems

[Luke M]

Hi everyone, I have a quick questions regarding a 78 XS400. When cold the bike takes multiple hard kicks with the choke fully out to get it started. When fully warmed up the bike is easy to kick over, but whenever it is cold it truly takes an effort to get it going. I cleaned the carbs, changed the oil and got a new battery. I didn't mess with the idle air mixture screws and they still have the plastic caps on them. I haven't synced the carbs yet, but I plan to this weekend. Any advice on what could be causing the bike to be such a burden to kick over when cold?

Also, is there any way to reach the sync screw with the bike idling?

Thanks

 

[drewpy]

Any advice on what could be causing the bike to be such a burden to kick over when cold?

prob just needs a tune up

Also, is there any way to reach the sync screw with the bike idling?

Thanks

yes, take the tank off

 

[Luke M]

prob just needs a tune up

I changed the plugs and have new filters on order. Anything else?

yes, take the tank off

Is it just the two screws by where you sit that hold the tank?

 

[drewpy]

I changed the plugs and have new filters on order. Anything else?

Is it just the two screws by where you sit that hold the tank?

A tune up is,

1) check contacts, renew if pitted
2) adjust contacts
3) adjust valves
4) check compression circa 140psi
5) strobe ignition timing
6) balance carbs
7) if running E10 fuel, 3 turns anti clockwise on the carb pilot screw to increase fuel mix (yellow in picture)

tank is just 1 or two bolts front of seat and the 2 tubes to the fuel tap.