Yes, the KO carbs can be a pain...but that is just getting them dialed in. At least that was the result on the KO's I have done. Once I get the carbs cleaned and synced they last long with minimal problems on my end. Of course that is doing everything else first like plugs & caps, adjusting the valves, cam chain, points, condensers, timing, etc. And that means using OEM parts and quality diagnostic tools. I have had my ruby red KO since 2007 very happy with how it runs. Recently considered selling it and keeping my candy gold K1 only because of the upgraded carbs in the K1. Then I realized I've had no carb issues on the KO and sold the K1. My point is paying attention to detail and not taking shortcuts on any of these bikes is how to have a fine runner for the long run.