I'm working on getting a 2002 savage I picked up the other day running. So far I got it to crank, so I checked compression. Is 90 psi OK for a cold engine? The compession solinoid activates for a couple cranks then deactivates. is that normal?

I assume your engine has not run in a long time.  Is that correct?

Your current compression is pretty low (90 psi).  It really should be up around 140 to 150 psi.  As Verslagen suggested, your throttle must be held wide open when you are cranking the engine for the compression check.  

I personally have never had a problem achieving a good compression check with the decomp solenoid hooked up, but it wouldn't hurt to try it both ways (with solenoid connected & with solenoid disconnected).

If it's still only 90 psi after trying with the throttle wide open, oil in cylinder, solenoid connected/disconnected, check your valve clearance to make sure you don't have a valve being held off the seat.  

If the valve clearance is OK, I suggest you try to get it running.  If it will run, warm it up a bit and see if it improves.  Might just be a layer of crud on the cylinder wall and valves.  That will most likely scuff off after a few minutes of gentle operation.  

If the compression remains at 90 psi after you run it a bit, I think you have a pretty tired engine.  

Doing a compression check with the carb removed will give you the best possible result. Your compression appears to be poor. After you get the bike started and ride it for 25 or more miles, recheck the compression. My guess is it will have improved. If not, a leak-down compression check is in order.