Hey guys, just joined the forum. I just returned from 2 weeks "vacation" with the Army and go to start my bike. At first, I have the choke all the way out, it dies instantly. Which I thought was weird. So, I tried again but this time gave it some throttle/gas. As soon as I let it off, it dies. I started to smell fuel while doing all this, and I look down and see a very large puddle of gas under my bike. Does anyone have any suggestions? It doesn't help I don't have a truck or trailer to take it to my nearest Harley dealer.

 

Oh, I forgot to add, my bike is 2005 Sportster 883 Custom.

 

Float bowl valve could be stuck open or your petcock (fuel valve) leaking? The one on my 02 went bad and leaked. Replaced it for $35. If it is, I'll bet it is sucking gas through the vacuum line. Try turning the fuel off and running the bike till it stalls (emptying the carb bowl) then turn the fuel on again, maybe it will clear out the dirt in the float valve.