They should be at exactly the same height, and should be all the way down when the engine is not running or when the carbs are off the bike. Sounds like something is binding one. Gently push each one up, then let them fall. They should fall smoothly with a clunk when they bottom out. Dried fuel, corrosion, a bent needle, or maybe even a small bat colony could cause one to hang up,
1982 KZ1000 LTD parts donor
1981 KZ1000 LTD awaiting resurrection
2000 ZRX1100 not ridden enough
