I used to run the carb dry everytime I switched off the engine
 

...........The downside can be that the float stays down when you switch on the fuel next time: it happened to me quite regularly with a TTR carb - I never did get to find out what was the problem, but it sure ran some fuel out of the overflow and it was a bugger to get it to stop leaking.
If drained for a short time, like overnight, then it was often OK, but for a longer time......................

Hmm.

Is there a simple way of draining the float bowl just prior to starting it up then? That way you could leave it full, but draining the old petrol out just before starting it up after a long spell of inactivity.

Matt

there's a drain screw on the carb, hard to describe but sort of obvious if you look (check manual). unscrew a little and the fuel empties down the little tube that comes out under the bike. Make sure you switch the main fuel tap off first, or you'll empty all your fuel.

Don't think so on that particular carb, but some designs have a drain screw (I think!).

I was not knocking the idea of running the carb dry - personally, I thought it a great idea - just warning of the unintended consequences that can arise. It's worth a try, because the carb float should not stick in the down position of course.

I sometimes got my float free by bashing the handle of a hammer against the carb body and then again, sometimes I didn't!! :rolleyes2:

Bad memory
 

Yes, Dougie is right, there is a drain screw - that was another attempt to get the float to behave itself: opening and closing the screw, repeatedly.

its maybe not a bad idea to empty all the old fuel and start fresh after a long period laid up. I got my xt600e out from under the sheets in the garage last weekend. She took some persuasion to fire, but did in the end. Doesn't take much throttle to stall it even when warmed up. Im thinkin the fuel has gone a bit dead after 4 months parked up and the big single is particular about the fuel it uses? im gona empty it all this weekend and start fresh. Can't wait to get a good rip out on the big girl again

I use a fuel stabiliser if I am going to lay a bike up for a while.

Also, if you've got a metal tank, keep it brimmed to reduce condensation and thus water build up in the bottom of the tank.

Most bikes will be a bit "grumpy" to start if left for a long time but I find the stabiliser helps.

Seems to be two schools of thought on this.
Another good tip is