New Motorcycle Owner Need Help With Mechanical Problem

[LukeGustafson]

Hi everyone,
I bought a gl1200i that needed a bit of work, it is my first motorcycle and I need some help diagnosing a problem. The seller I got it from said it ran poorly and needed a carb rebuild he had the parts to do so but not the time. Just to test I ran the bike for 10-20 seconds and it seemed like it was in somewhat working order. I took out the carbs, replaced all the jets, and attempted to do a general cleaning. After I reinstalled the carbs I turned on the starter motor only for it to barely turn the engine. At first, it would attempt to run for a few seconds, but after a couple of attempts in that manner, the starter only makes a clicking sound now. I have some fear that the engine has seized because of improper cleaning or reinstalling of the carbs preventing gas from entering the engine. Please let me know if this sounds about right or if it could be something else. I didn't know what to include in the post so if there are any other details that could help solve the problem just ask and I'd love to share them.

[winguyjo]

is the battery new, or is it a battery that you are 100% sure is good, or is it the battery that came with the bike ?

[LukeGustafson]

The battery that came with the bike is in bad shape. I did initially try to start the bike with that battery but then switched to jumping it. The same result the starter just clicks even with the extra power.

[winguyjo]

could just be me, but i have always found that these bikes don't respond well to being jump-started, even with good heavy cables and a car battery. i would buy a new battery right away since you need one anyway.

[Rambozo]

Not preventing gas from entering the engine, too much gas may have entered.
Pull the spark plugs out, then try to spin it over. CAUTION fuel may spray out of the spark plug holes.
If fuel comes out you have a float level problem, sticking or not adjusted properly. They can be a little tricky to get set right. Check the How-To section for more info.