New GS'r with a couple questions

[1929fordtudor]

I just bought an 83 GS1100GLD last tuesday. I'm real excited, because my dad had an 80 GS1000G that he was in love with back in the day and I can't wait to get it running really well and surprise him with an afternoon back in the saddle. (I haven't told him about the bike yet.) My bike has 17,452 miles and is in pretty good shape. I went for my first ride today and at about 1/8 to 1/4 throttle it was popping and sputtering, kind of bogging. When I twist the throttle more it would clear up. I rode for about an hour and by the end it wasn't popping but was still had that bog at 1/8 to 1/4 throttle. Does this sound like a carb issue? Should I go completely through the carbs? I was going to buy the oring kit from cycleorings, but I assume I would need the kits that have the bowl gaskets, needles, and jets as well. Any suggestions on where to purchase those if needed?
Also, when I go to start it, the starter cranks fine, but after a couple of times turning the engine over the starter backs out and I have to let off the starter button and try again. Any suggestions?
I have already gleaned quite a bit of info from you guys on this site and can't tell you how thankful I am for everyone's wisdom and help. It makes it much easier for a newbie like me to get my bike in tip top shape.
One last thing, I could really use a manual if someone could point me in the right direction. Thanks

[scout127]

For the manual check out Basscliff's website.

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

I've picked up lots of great info there. I'm sure more experienced GS'rs will be along soon with advice about the other stuff, but Basscliff's site will give you something to check out until then. Good luck!

[SqDancerLynn1]

Welcome to the site!! If you are careful you can reused the float bowl gasket, only parts need are the O rings. You do NOT need to buy kits.
BaseCliff's sit has an accumulation of information needed for every GS owner

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

[Sandy]

You didn't mention whether the bike had stock airbox and exhaust or had aftermarket pipes and filters. It makes difference. If it's stock the carbs should not need the hard parts (jets, needles, etc) replaced, only the soft parts like gaskets and o-rings and a good cleaning. Remember to replace the intake manifold o-rings if your bike has them, it mostly likely does. Do the valves before you do the carb sync. All this stuff can be found on Basscliff's site or the "in the garage" section of this site. If the exhaust and filters are not stock it's also possible that the carbs are not jetted properly in which case just post what you think you have and somebody else will know the closest jet configuration you should have. Oh yeah, welcome to the nuthouse.

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. 29fordtudor,

Let me roll out the welcome mat for you too...

Please click here for your mega-welcome, chock full of tips, suggestions, links to vendors, and other information. Then feel free to visit my little BikeCliff website where I've been collecting the wisdom of this generous community. Don't forget, we like pictures! Not you, your bike!

Thanks for joining us. Keep us informed.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[1929fordtudor]

Thank you for the generous welcome! I already feel a part of the GS family. The bike is completely stock so I figure I will go ahead and order the orings from cycleorings today. I really do appreciate all of your help and the wealth of knowledge that is available here. I will post some pics soon and let you know how things progress.

[rustybronco]

May I suggest you look at the condition of side air box cover seals and the seal from the air filter cage to the top of the air box, before you go any further.

what is the condition of the air filter element?

[1929fordtudor]

I have to admit that I have not pulled anything apart yet, but I should have an opportunity today and will pay close attention to these things you have listed. Thankyou for the suggestions.