Starting in the cold + Carb Questions

[indr]

So, last week coming from work at around 3AM, the temp was -5degC. I had full choke. Started up the bike. Bike ran. And 2 seconds later, died.

I started it up again. Again ran and died after 3 or so seconds.

Adding throttle made it die faster (I was sure the battery would die before the bike reached normal running condition).

I did this atleast 5 times before it finally started it up at very low RPM and VERY slowly climbed upto normal idle RPM.

Bike starts up fine when it's warmed up. Runs fine. Etc.

I posted the same topic on another forum and people say that it's because the mixture is too lean.

So, messing around with the carbs should fix this......?

Before I jump in, a few questions:

1) Is this a good simplified explanation of the CVK carbs on our bikes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUuVQfvWSnI ??

2) According to that and from what I've been reading here, there are two ways to enrichen the mixture. By getting a smaller needle. Or by raising the already existing needle by putting washers on it. Is this right?

3) The more washers I put on the main jet needle, the richer the mixture will get, right?

4) Any disadvantages of using washers over putting a smaller needle in?

5) Should I mess with the idle screws before or after adjusting the needle?

6) Is there anything else I should do before I adjust the needle?

7) Is it necessary to drain the float bowls to adjust the needle and the idle screws?

More to come.

[indr]

8) Is there a pilot needle too or is the idle mixture only adjusted with the screws?