Hi Im Ed-I have a 2007 vstar 650 on the way back from work my bike started to loose power. If you give it a little throttle its ok 1/2 throttle or more it cuts out and sounds like a cylinder isn't firing all the way. After the trip home one exhaust pipe was glowing inside and the other one wasn't. I though it was bad gas(water) should I open the carbs and clean the jets? What side of the carbs, I don't want parts flying out. Help I have no money now and Im missing my bike real bad! Thanks!-Ed

the clutch might be dragging, tighten the clutch cable a little and see if that helps

Definite misfire. Does not sound fuel related. Check for bad plugs or wires. Ignition module and crank sensor.

I think you need to get a proper factory service manual for this. I found a manual for your bike here - http://myxmanuals.com/downloadview-details-550-Yamaha_Dragstar_VStar_XVS650_K_KC_97_Owners_Manual.html

It sounds to me that your carbs might be a little gunked up - you mentioned the gas may have been old, so it's possible that the smaller (idle) jets are slightly plugged up. Fresh fuel might do the trick and/or you could try using a fuel system cleaner and water remover. This problem might 'solve itself' with a little time.

As far as the backfire - this might be either from the carb issue or it could be related to that rattle you mentioned - you could have a loose connection at or near the head - this can **** air and cause a backfire.

I hope this helped!

idle cable out of adjustment and or throttle cable needs adjusting also and they always need to be lubed at 5000 miles adjust throttle cable with wheel striaght forward idle cable to all the way right lock and 2-3mm free play on throttle grip

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