CRF250r 2006, Problems (leaks/steam)

[Zimbeck]

I've always had problems with this bike ever since I bought it. It's always been a pain to start the bike and some people have told me the following:

-Somethings wrong with carburetor (clean it, buy new one)
-Intake valves are messed up (buy new one)
-You don't ride enough (riiiiiide)!!!

I don't ride as often as I would like to, but I try every summer and spring to do so. Whenever my bike DOES start, I start it up for 5 minutes every other day (I hear its good to just let it run for awhile).

Here's the deal: I cleaned my carburetor and everything around it (I took the bike apart) and I put it all back together. I finally got the bike to start but ANOTHER problem came about. The radiator started steaming and the coolant started to leak out. I was wondering if anyone know what I should do?

I've had a lot of problems with mechanics trying to fix the bike, always comes back worse so I feel as though only I can really do the job right, if I know what to do. It's been about 3 months now that I haven't touched the bike because I've been busy with work and school and I've been trying to find someone who knows the ins and outs.

If anyone can help, it would be GREATLY appreciated! Also, any tips on how to regularly keep the bike away from abruptly stopping and maintaing good health would help too! Thanks in advance!

[Mainjet2001]

Generally speaking, if it starts hard, you need to check the valve gaps.
Have you done that?

Do you have a manual?

[AgentSmith]

In addition to Mainjet's recommendation, if the bike starts hard, sits for long periods of time between running, and runs hot, I would look at the pilot jet.

It may be partially clogged causing a lean condition.

How long are you running it? Do you just start it and let it idle or are you riding it?

These bikes will overheat in a minute or two if they aren't moving. They need air being forced through the rads to cool. There is no fan moving air.

[Zimbeck]

I'm not sure what you mean by "start hard." Do you mean is it difficult to start the bike? Sorry!

@ Mainjet: Yes I do have the manual. No I have not checked the valve gaps. I'll make a note of it.

@AgentSmith: Where I live I can't ride around. When I do start the bike, I pull the throttle a few times. I can see how overheating could cause problems to the bike, but when I initially start the bike, the radiator started to steam almost immediately. I'll make note of the pilot jets too.