What is your opinion on the float bowls on bikes/generators filled or not issue?
I generally keep mine filled (have through 30+ years, with never more than a partially clogged jet that cleaned itself quickly with no fuel. And that includes pre-stabilizer years).
If the bowl is not filled there is a greater chance the float valve o-ring will dry out.
But OTOH, I bought a used KE100 last February and the pilot jet clogged a month later with brand new non-ethanol gas!
I have an ‘82 XL250 with 2 year old old STABILized gas I need to change out this week or next. That is the one that starts up a little balky and needs extra choke until the pilot cleans out.
I recommend turning off the fuel and draining the bowl if something is going to be sitting for over 6 months or so. This is were most problems occur (in the carb), both from evaporation leaving behind "gunk" and from corrosion.
For equipment where this isn't possible, siphon/pour out as much fuel as possible and let it run dry. O-rings and vi-ton valves don't dry out and today's gasket materials are better able to withstand such.
You may have some sticking issues from evaporation but this usually fixes itself by allowing time for fuel to free things up or tapping on the side of the bowl. This is a whole lot easier than disassembling the carburetor and removing the gunk/corrosion.
Btw, I have a XL250 too. Needs work though (wrecked) lol I also have a Shadow 1100 and like most Hondas, needs a heavy application of choke but NOT TOO much. Grrr.... The Harley requires LOTS of choke and only push it in after you get about a mile down the road.