Carb sync

[Polishpower77]

Might be a stupid question but I don't know the answer so thought I'd ask here because you all are always helpful.

I want to sync my carbs, '81 GS850 either by myself (not likely) as I do not have that vacuum tool, or have them done at a local shop by my house, question is, do they need to be on the bike to be synced or can they be off?

Thanks.

[Agemax]

you can mechanically bench synch them but they need to be fitted on a running bike to have them vacuum synched.

[Polishpower77]

Thanks AgeMax, appreciate it.

[Agemax]

before you get them synched, you must make sure the rest of the engine is in good order as well. the carbs must be nice and clean internally, good plugs and ignition timing set correctly and most importantly, the valve shims have been set and all clearances are within spec.
there is little gain to be had in synching the carbs unless these other tasks have been addressed first

[Polishpower77]

Thanks, I'll make sure to check those aspects prior to syncing.