1981 KZ 305 Hard to start

Hello All,
This may have been covered before, although I can't find the thread. I have a 1981 KZ 305 CSR running stock airbox and exhaust. Carbs rebuilt 2 seasons ago. It will start, after warming up it runs fine. However it's somewhat hard to start whether it's cold or warm (engine and air temp). There is never a time when I just hit the starter and it starts right up. When cold I have to start to crank with the choke on half way, then as soon as it starts to fire fully choke. Generally after doing this 2 or 3 times it starts, and after warmup runs fine. After riding, if it cools down for more than 10-15 minutes it takes the same procedure. Has anyone else out there had this issue? Any idea what might need fixed/adjusted? I appreciate the help.

Mike

You are not touching the throttle when you start it, are you? Also, when the engine is warm don't use choke. How old is the battery? Ed

Not touching the throttle. New battery.