exhaust smoke

[Apee]

I have dreamed of owning a Valkyrie since they came on to the scene in 97 and last Friday my dream came true!    Needless to say, it is much different from my 05 Suzuki Boulevard and I have a question or 2.  When I start my bike I seem to have a lot of smoke from the exhaust.  It clears up eventually but I was wondering if this is normal.

[Jess from VA]

Welcome.

White (not dark) smoke (vapor) on start-up/choke is very common, esp on the left (low) side.  No worries.

You do know that you have to really mash the choke lever down (that last quarter inch) for it to really be choked at all?  Over the years, this is probably the most common first issue with new owners.

[Michvalk]

Yep, Hot exhaust, cold pipes-water vapor. If it is clearing up after warmup, I wouldn't worry. Welcome to the board, and enjoy!

[gordonv]

Welcome.

As already said, most common is water vapour.

So the next questions would be; color, smell (water, antifreeze, oil)?

+1 on Jess response about the chock. Most common issue with a new owner (and sometimes old timers too). You're moving the enrichers for 6 carbs, it turns free enough, then stops. Turn it another 1/4" or so. There is pictures from others, something about below the lower half of the left side switch mount.

[john]

nature of the beast ... no worries