Z550 chugging/ white smoke from engine

I have a 1980 z550. On the first run it's hard to get her past 40 mph and maybe 60 max on the second ride of the day. After about 30 minutes I'll notice small amounts of white smoke while at a red light. Also I can barely turn the throttle a quarter turn before she starts chugging. Any one know where to start on this?

White smoke usually indicates water getting in somewhere. You could have water mixed with the gas or a blown head gasket. Flush the tank and carbs.

Sounds like carb problems.

So trying anything, I tried a ride with the choke full on for shits and giggles. Solved every problem I had. What does this indicate and is it safe to ride like this?

TonytheKid wrote: So trying anything, I tried a ride with the choke full on for shits and giggles. Solved every problem I had. What does this indicate and is it safe to ride like this?

It indicates that the carbs need attention big time. Ed

Need to clean the pilots.
Steve

But as of right now is it safe to ride with the choke full on

I would not do that with my bike. Running the engine with the choke full on could result in excess fuel being drawn into the cylinders and washing away the protective oil film from the cylinder walls, but I don't know how one might measure or control that. Ed

TonytheKid wrote: But as of right now is it safe to ride with the choke full on

Not permanently. There is no real metering of fuel with the choke on. It can still be lean or it can be rich depending on throttle position etc.. The choke just has spring-loaded flaps (if they are not broken) and that's not really a way to meter air/fuel.

If this bike is new to you, you will want to assess things in a more logical manner, starting with the motor.
Compression test.
Valve-lash check.
Then ignition.
Check the advancer and timing.
Then you will have to open the carbs and clean them.

There are a bunch of manuals if you follow my signature links.
You should also read the valve train warning.
There is also a link to a site for the carbs on your bike.