bike wont run without choke

[afaciane]

I have a 2007 GZ250 which only has 962 miles on it. The oil and filter have been changed, as well as the spark plugs and the carb was cleaned about a year ago. I deploy a lot so I haven't had time to really ride the bike much since I bought it. When I start the bike, it takes about 5 to 6 starts with the choke fully engaged to keep the bike from dying after running it for a minute. When riding the bike, it dies every time you slow down for a turn or at a stop sign. It also sounds very loud and it sputters a lot during the ride. Also, the choke cannot be completely taken off during the ride at any point. Any help is always greatly appreciated and I am looking to find a good starting point to get my bike up and running solid.