.
My 1999 600 Triple would "pop" (backfire) during start up as well. One day, it popped so big it actually made 2 muffler springs let go. Definitely, don't want to do that again...
For it, I simply:
- Cleaned all 3 of its carbs using carb cleaner, fine wire strand and air can with small straw blowing.
- Changed oil to Amsoil 2-stroke oil (for snowmobiles) and adjusted its flow rate until their spark plugs are a dark chocolate brown.
- Start and let it warm up 3-5 minutes - before reving it above 3,200 RPM. Now, I start it, put my make up on (LOL!), put my helmet on, adjust its mirrors, plug in my helmet's cord, check my blind spots before revving it up above 3,200 RPMs.
- Before shut-off, let it idle down for 20 seconds as well. Never shut it off when RPM is above 1,800.
Did all of above and it never "popped" (back fired) again.
This might work for your sled as well...