Need choke on to run

I have a 1988 venture royal 1300, have been working on for several years. when trying to get it started this year it will only run with the choke on full and can only get it to about 2000 rpm.

If i try to take the choke off it dies, if i try to give it more rpm it dies.

Carbs need cleaned

:sign yeah that: right there with Corporal Newkirk!!

How long since you last had it running Mill? Also,, maybe turn the key on with kill switch off,, now flip the kill switch on to run while standing on the left side of the bike (clutch side) while bending down near the passenger foot peg listening for the fuel pump to cycle.. It should run for a couple seconds.. Making sure the pump is working.. Now flip the switch back off and on again.. Keep doing this until you hear the pump slowly stop cycling so you know your bowls are full and try starting it..

Put a can of seafoam or gumout with PEA in the gas for a starter. There is a "shotgun" method to partially clean the carbs that some use. Do a search for details.

If you've been messing with the carbs the first thing I'd do is 'sync 'm Danno'.. You could be trying to run on #2 only?? My 2¢