Doesn't run without choke

[foxrace8]

My 89 gs500 wont run unless the choke is on.  And if i try and rev it, it cuts out and dies.  I washed the bike and started it after i was done to make sure there wasn't any water anywhere that would stay there and rust and that is then the problem started.  Any ideas on what it could be? Vac leak? fuel problem?  Electrical prob?  I don't think it has to do with me washing it...Thanks

[scratch]

Welcome!

How long have you had the bike? How long has the bike been sitting? The reason I ask is because it sounds like the carbs are gummed up from old gas. The best way to fix that is to remove, disassemble and clean the carbs.

[foxrace8]

thank you for your quick response.  The bike hasn't been sitting at all.  Ive had it for about 7 months. i just rejetted the carbs (and cleaned) and put an exhaust on it. The air box is currently off also.  I have run with this set up for a month or so and i haven't had any problems like this at all.

[Roadstergal]

No airbox or air filter at all?  You got water in the carbs when you washed it...

[mjm]

... i just rejetted the carbs (and cleaned) and put an exhaust on it. The air box is currently off also. .l.

When you rejetted did you change the pilot jet?  If not, you will be very lean down low. That would be corrected (actually over-corrected) by turning the choke on.   If yes, you might have a plugged dirty pilot jet - or, the ever popular need for a valve adjustment.