this happens as i let off throttle/pull in the clutch lever, and more pronounced when cold.

also i notice sometimes when stopped at a light, its idling fine but occasionally i hear a little blip in the idle.

anyone know what this might be a sign of?

Perfectly normal, the Savage is basically an oversized Briggs and Stratton mower engine.

Other than the mower engine has a more reliable ignition system, yes. Something to be said for primitive engines, and in today's market, the Savage is pretty primitive. That's a very good thing.

And mine is getting more primitive, front drum conversion.