Vehicle Type:
Dual-sport / Adventure motorcycle
Intended Use:
Versatile on-road and off-road capability
Historical Competitors:
BMW R80G/S, Yamaha XT600, Honda Africa Twin (later models), Cagiva Elefant
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level diagnostic and repair information for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, ensuring comprehensive maintenance and restoration capabilities.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive factory service, repair, and workshop procedures
Applicable Models:
Gilera Dakota 350, Gilera Dakota 500, Gilera Dakota ER 350, Gilera Dakota ER 500
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Implied by product description and common manual standards)
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, bottom-end assembly, valve train, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, starting system, exhaust system
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, assembly, clutch operation, shift mechanism
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear), final drive (chain/sprocket)
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, ignition system troubleshooting, starter motor
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, fuel tank, seat, fenders, body panel removal and installation
Fuel And Exhaust:
Fuel tank, petcock, fuel lines, carburetor, exhaust headers, muffler, emissions controls (if applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake pad replacement, tire pressure checks
Repair Procedures:
Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Diagnostic steps for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostic Procedures:
Fault finding guides for engine performance, electrical issues, starting problems, brake system malfunctions
Technical Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams, torque specifications, clearances, electrical schematics, component tolerances, rebuild procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Engine Configuration:
Single-cylinder, four-stroke (likely OHC or DOHC based on era)
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual (specific to 350cc and 500cc variants)
Compression Ratio:
Refer to manual (specific to variants)
Horsepower 350Cc:
Approx. 25-30 HP (Estimate, specific data required)
Horsepower 500Cc:
Approx. 30-35 HP (Estimate, specific data required)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (likely Mikuni or Dell'Orto, specific model dependent)
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled (typical for this era and style)
Oil Type Specification:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 20W-50, common for air-cooled motorcycles)
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific model and gap (e.g., NGK, Champion)
Safety Standards:
Adherence to relevant European motorcycle safety directives of the production era
Braking System:
Disc brakes (front and rear, likely single disc per wheel for standard models, potentially dual front on ER variants)
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, indicator lights (turn signal, neutral, oil pressure, high beam)
ABS:
Not typically fitted on standard models of this era; ER models might have had optional ABS in later production.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Analog systems)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual (typically every 3,000 - 5,000 km or annually)
Valve Clearance Check:
Refer to manual (typically every 6,000 - 12,000 km)
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Refer to manual (frequent checks recommended, especially under off-road use)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual (typically 1.5 - 2.5 liters)
Fork Oil Type And Level:
Refer to manual (specific viscosity and level critical for performance)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (typical for disc brake systems of this era)
Gearbox Oil Type:
Refer to manual (often a dedicated gear oil or engine oil depending on lubrication design)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, suspension seals, carburetor jets and diaphragms, electrical connectors (corrosion), wheel bearings
Potential Failures:
Voltage regulator failure (overcharging or undercharging), camshaft wear (in some early designs), carburetor synchronization issues
Manufacturer:
Gilera (Italian motorcycle manufacturer, part of Piaggio Group)
Dakota Development:
The Gilera Dakota was an early entrant in the adventure touring segment, designed for versatility and comfort on long-distance rides, both on and off-road. The ER (Enduro Replica) variants typically offered enhanced off-road capabilities.
Production Period:
Late 1980s to early 1990s (approximate)