I just purchased a 98 XCR 700 with 2000 miles on it. This is the triple "big block".

Starts on 2nd pull, compression is 117 cold across all 3.

Once I turn off the choke I have to feather the throttle to keep running, then I will get a backfire or it will just die. If I can flip the choke fast enough it will keep running. All plugs are damp.

I tore off the carbs and cleaned them, they were not to bad. Installed new plugs, pumped out all the gas and poured in fresh.

I did not have High Oct fuel so I just use 87 for now.

Still have same results.

Am I looking at crank seal or crank problem?

almost sounds like a plugged up pilot jet, but seeing as you said you already cleaned the carbs im out of ideas...

Turn the air screws in a 1/8 turn till it runs better.

Sounds like seats and needles to me. Thats what was going on with my XCR