My choke seems to come fitted with a spring. When I pull it out it springs back in. Meaning if I want to start bike from cold I'm holding choke out manually. Is this normal or has someone done this as an extra? Its a bit of a pain in the arse tbh. 

I don't think they should have a spring return - Mine doesn't.

It is relatively stiff, as though there is some sort of friction in the system.  I think there also may be notches on the small bit of 'bar' that pulls out. It only comes out just over an inch.

 

Hope this helps

Mine doesn't seem to have a spring either, friction seems to hold it out and there are notches that you can feel as you pull it out.

Easier to push back in than to pull out.

Maybe something needs tightening up to re-gain the friction.

Both of mine would spring back in. I would pull and then twist the choke grip, which usually held it in place long enough to get the bike warm.