M900 STARTS but NO IDLE & NO Power... need help

[c1fer]

1999 M900 City Edition: Open Clutch: After Market Cans

APRIL 19
Last ridden: 30 Miles R/T to work.
Filled up tank 3 blocks from my house


MAY 3
I started it up and it felt strange like it wouldn't idle.
I kept on the throttle thinking it was cold engine. Shifted to 1st and it had no power, as if I was starting in 2nd gear.
Drove around the block thinking I need to burn off some gas but it was dying every time I let go of the throttle. Parked it at house


May 7
I pulled the plugs and checked. They were black and burnt tips.
I cleaned them as best I could since I didn't have extra plugs.
Started it up and it was still not idling. And when I cut the engine there was smoke rising from the right tail pipe.


I am 600 Miles past my 12k and was hoping to ride it into the shop. (San Francisco)

What can I do? What should I check for? I can always have it trucked in, but maybe it could  be a simple remedy.

Thanks

[ducpainter]

I'd add an ethanol combating fuel treatment and see what happens.

Your symptoms sound like poor quality fuel.

[c1fer]

Ok so I usually fill up at Chevron and I get the Low or medium stuff....

After I took out the air filter (it was Clean) and checked the intake (it was clean too), I started it up and really revved it for a while...

I felt the power coming back, so I got my helmet and went for a ride. It was running rich and sputtering a little, but I was able ride it through 1-2-3 gears.

I think you're right, cheap gas....

So I think now I can change the plugs and will be able to "limp" in to the shop for a proper 12K service.

Can you recommend a fuel treatment???

Thanks

[Duck-Stew]

Here's the best fuel treatment:

Drain all that stuff out NOW.  I'd even go so far as to drain out the carb float bowls as well.

Replace w/known good quality gas (or at least roll the dice again).

Put the bad stuff in some neighbors car you don't like much...

[ducpainter]

Stu's method is probably best, but I'd put a little Star-tron in the tank and see if it is rideable.

I added that to all the fuel that sat over the winter, and everything started and ran this spring. They claim it will rejuvenate poor fuel.

I'm lazy.

[64duc]

I'm lazy.

If it wasn't for us lazy people we wouldn't have all the neat labor saving devices we have.