The good news- I decided to give it one last go. Took the carbs off, cleaned everything (but I can't say it looked too bad, blasted the jets and passages, put it all together, 3 count tickle, 3 kicks key out, 2 kicks key in, and success!
What's more, it continued to start with one or two kicks!
But here's the asterisk. Huge oil leak from the riders right base gasket, and I think I know why. Flat bottom on the cylinder, and I'm using the metal gasket. The other side has the ridges, so it's oil tight. I guess I have to get the paper gasket...
Thanks to everyone with the advice!
What's more, it continued to start with one or two kicks!
But here's the asterisk. Huge oil leak from the riders right base gasket, and I think I know why. Flat bottom on the cylinder, and I'm using the metal gasket. The other side has the ridges, so it's oil tight. I guess I have to get the paper gasket...
Thanks to everyone with the advice!