Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians performing maintenance, repairs, and restoration on Yamaha XV750SE Special models.
Competitors 1981 1983:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan, Suzuki GSX cruisers.
Engine Configuration:
Distinctive 750cc 70-degree V-twin engine providing strong low-end torque and a unique character.
Manual Advantage:
Provides essential, often hard-to-find, technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic Japanese motorcycle.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the 748cc V-twin engine, including disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and component specifications.
Fuel System:
Comprehensive information on carburetion (likely Mikuni CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, and troubleshooting fuel delivery issues.
Ignition System:
Details on the electronic ignition system, including timing, components, and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission:
Coverage of the 5-speed gearbox, clutch operation, disassembly, assembly, and lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Information on the shaft drive system, including maintenance and troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front fork (likely telescopic) and rear shock absorber maintenance, adjustments, and specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system details, including hydraulic systems, caliper maintenance, disc specifications, and fluid replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, and starting system.
Frame And Bodywork:
Information on frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, and associated hardware.
Wheels And Tires:
Specifications for wheel bearings, tire pressure recommendations, and wheel removal/installation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain/shaft drive adjustment, brake fluid checks, and tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common issues, symptoms, and potential causes across all major systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, internal component inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Carburetor Service:
Cleaning, adjustment, and synchronization of the carburetor(s).
Clutch Replacement:
Procedures for clutch plate inspection and replacement.
Brake System Overhaul:
Master cylinder, caliper, and line servicing, including bleeding procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing components, and diagnosing charging system issues.
Suspension Fork Rebuild:
Fork seal replacement, oil changes, and component inspection.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds, with detailed specifications and diagnostic routines.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, 70-degree V-twin
Displacement:
748 cc (45.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 69.2 mm (estimated, typical for this era V-twins)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (estimated)
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder (pushrod actuated)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 62 hp @ 7,000 rpm (estimated)
Torque Est:
Approx. 60 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm (estimated)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni BS36 VM-type constant velocity carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 12 Liters (3.2 US gallons) (typical for model)
Oil Capacity With Filter Change:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (3.7 US quarts) (estimated)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in) (estimated)
Width:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in) (estimated)
Height:
Approx. 1,230 mm (48.4 in) (estimated)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,510 mm (59.4 in) (estimated)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 194 kg (428 lbs) (estimated)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 214 kg (472 lbs) (estimated)
Engine Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 km (2,000-3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Service:
Inspect every 5,000-8,000 km (3,000-5,000 miles), replace as needed.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean every 5,000 km (3,000 miles), replace as needed.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA certified) SAE 20W-40 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA certified) SAE 20W-40 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (shared with engine in some configurations, check manual).
Carburetor Issues:
Varnish buildup, clogged jets, and diaphragm tears due to age and fuel degradation. Synchronization issues can lead to rough idling.
Electrical Component Failure:
Aging regulator/rectifiers and stators can lead to charging system problems. Corroded connections are also common.
Suspension Leaks:
Fork seals and rear shock seals can degrade with age, leading to oil leaks.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Requires periodic lubrication of the final drive gear oil and universal joint. Neglect can lead to wear.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance across various segments.
Virago Line:
The XV750SE Special was part of Yamaha's Virago line, introduced to compete in the growing cruiser market with a focus on style, V-twin power, and shaft drive.
Xv750Se Special Significance:
The 'Special' designation often indicated specific styling cues or equipment upgrades over the standard XV750 model, making it a desirable variant.
Production Years:
1981-1983 for the XV750SE Special model.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (typical for Yamaha models of this era)