I started syncing the carbs using a Carbtune Pro device. Had some issues to find a stable idle and had to readjust the idle screw several times during the process. I also had issues when tightening the lock nuts on the adjuster screws as it sometimes sent the carbs out of tune again. The Haynes manual says the tune must be in the 16 - 24 cmhg range and no more than 3 cmhg difference between the carbs. I just about got them aligned at 16-18. I also found that when I restarted the engine it needed a quick blast of full choke, even when hot. I have the fuel/air mix at 2 turns out. I also noticed what looked like condensation tripping out of the joint between the downpipes and silencer.
Most of what you mentioned is common, getting them evened out and keeping the idle adjustment screw in the middle of its range is the important part. The adjusters can be and are sensitive when snugging down, just remember they don't require as much tension as you might imagine. Doing the sync with the bike fully up to operating temp is essential.
The mixture screws are set at 2 turns out +/- 1/2 a turn as per the manual. So while you can try turning in the mixture screw in a 1/4 of a turn (richer), you'll need to do it with the carbtune attached as it could (will) change your sync. That may or may not improve your hot start up.
Having to use the choke on start up isn't uncommon, as long as once its hot, it returns to idle without hanging and it doesn't stumble on take off or when changing gears. If you haven't, ride it around a bit and see what ya have.
