'79 KZ650SR Carb Issues

kgkomm wrote: Hey everyone.

So I've got a '79 KZ650SR that I've been working on for a while now. I just did the valve clearances a couple of nights ago and also replaced the contact points/condensers. I believe the final problems lie with the carbs. I have replaced the gaskets in the carbs and the intake boots/carb holders.

I'm running pods and shorter straight piped exhaust (it came with them; I replaced the pods with new ones). My current main jets are 105's. I have tried riding it a few times and the acceleration is pretty sluggish from a stop. Also, the exhaust pops pretty bad several times when I shift into 2nd and start to accelerate, and the same with 3rd (haven't even tried 4th or 5th), but not in 1st. It also pops really bad sometimes while trying to start it.

The spark plugs are pretty dark and sooty, which is usually a sign of running rich, right?

Finally, I live in Utah. Could elevation (4700 ft) be playing a part? Any tips or help you guys can give would be super awesome.