Motorcycle Repair: 1986 Honda XL600, wont kick, stator

Question
My XL600 wont kick start. if I compression start it it will run but I have to keep the RPM up or it might shut off. It seems to have A very weak spark. I have replaced the coil, no change.
Could it have A bad pick-up or stator?
When it stops running, it is just like I turned the key off.   I would appreciate any help. THANK"S Lee

Answer
It's unlikely that it's a ignition problem.  Those usually are related to temperature, run time or engine load.  It sounds more like a carburator problem.  Will it run better with a little choke applied.  If it does, it confirms the carburation diagnosis.  It's possible that the magnets in the flywheel have weakened.  I've see that before.

Regards
Rich