[blackj]

I have a 07 CRF150R with
#42 pilot jet
1 3/4 turns out on the fuel screw
Red marked needle in the #5 from top clip position ands a #145 main jet.
As its gotten colder its taken a couple more kicks to start it, not too unusal. But after a couple of weeks of not riding I tried to start it and I'm get nothing. Not even it firing up but failing to stay running.
I though maybe the spark plug was fouled so I pulled it. it looks a little bad but is still was sparking, but I swapped it out for a new one but there was no change.
I didnt have time yesterday but next on the list is to pull the carb and make sure the jets are clear.
Anybody got any other suggestions on what I should look for?
One other thing. In neutral the bike runs free. But in gear with the clutch pulled you can push the bike but there seems to be a lot of resistance. I dont believe this was always the case and it certainly isnt on my street bike. I havent adjusted the clutch cable but I'm wondering what could be the cause of this? and could it be related to the starting issue?
thanks

[riddler9]

You need to check the valves. Classic symptoms for the R intake being tight.

As far as the clutch goes, it does not sound like anything extreme. I would guess the cable either needs to be adjusted, is binding somewhere, or flat out needs to be replaced.

You can always pull the clutch and measure the springs.

[blackj]

I was afraid it might be the valves, Oh well guess its time to learn how to check the clearence!