I think the words, "Runs but carbs need cleaning.", should be banned from CL ads. Especially for thumpers. Any of us on here know what it means when a bike has been setting up awhile, but many bikes will crank and idle good and even run through the gears. But many times it is the stator that causes stuttering and rough running at increased throttle. I won't mention a brand because it wouldn't be fair, but most are guilty sometimes. Knock $200-400 off the price and buy it or tell them to clean the carb(s). Also I looked at a nice Rebel last year with an eye toward selling it for about $200 profit in this area. Cranked and immediately died. No more crank. Guy swore he had carbs cleaned. Opened gas tank and used rust to give myself a nice manicure. offered him what it was worth, then told him how to fix it and where to buy the stuff. He rolled it into the garage and I left. My opinion.  

My theory is everything is sh!t.
If it worked perfectly they wouldn't be selling it.
That's about how I enter every situation.


--Steve

I have been wondering what "actual miles" means, too.

houstonbofh wrote on 01/23/13 at 10:44:35:


Yep! Seems the carb,along with the battery,chain and clutch cable,serves as the scapegoat to cover many MAJOR problems with bikes for sale.  I know it's a scam when I offer to bring my toolbox,spare battery,air pig and a few other supplies to a tire-kicking and the owner comes off with a very speedy"NO".

gone fishing