Historical Context:
The Honda CR480R was a significant model in Honda's motocross lineup during the early 1980s, known for its powerful 480cc two-stroke engine, aimed at experienced riders and competitors.
Competitors:
Competed directly with other 500cc class motocross bikes from manufacturers like Yamaha (YZ490/465), Suzuki (RM465/400), and Kawasaki (KX420/400).
Engine Power:
Large displacement two-stroke engine offering significant torque and horsepower for its era.
Suspension:
Pro-Link rear suspension (common on Honda MX bikes of this era) for improved handling and a significant advantage over older twin-shock designs.
Manual Value:
Essential resource for owners looking to maintain, repair, or restore these vintage motocross machines, which are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Rebuild
Component Coverage:
Engine, Transmission, Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Swingarm/Struts), Brakes, Fuel System (Carburetor), Electrical System, Chassis, Bodywork
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete teardown and rebuild, internal components (piston, conrod, crankshaft, cylinder, head), lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), exhaust system
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series typically), main jet, slow jet, mixture screw, air filter, fuel pump (if applicable, though unlikely for this model), fuel lines
Ignition System:
Magneto ignition, stator, CDI unit, spark plug, troubleshooting 'no spark' conditions
Transmission:
Clutch (wet multi-plate), gearshift mechanism, primary reduction gear, transmission gears, lubrication
Suspension:
Front forks (damping, seals, oil), rear shock absorber(s) or struts, swingarm, linkage, bushings, bearings
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum or early disc brakes depending on specific sub-model), brake pads/shoes, rotors, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring harnesses, lights (headlight, taillight), switches (handlebar controls), battery (if applicable, though kickstart only likely), charging system (magneto)
Chassis Body:
Frame, handlebars, seat, fenders, plastics, footpegs, kickstart mechanism
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, fork oil), filter cleaning/replacement, chain maintenance, brake adjustment, spark plug service
Repair:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension service, brake system repairs, carburetor tuning and repair, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems (e.g., starting issues, poor performance, no spark, electrical faults, clutch slippage)
Installation:
Installation of new parts, accessories, or components
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds, including detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Detail Level:
Includes specific torque specifications, part numbers (implied by diagrams), and detailed step-by-step instructions.
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 89mm x 75mm (specifics may vary slightly by year, consult manual)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Induction:
Carburetor (likely Mikuni VM34 or VM36)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 6.8:1 to 7.0:1 (specifics may vary, consult manual)
Horsepower:
Estimated 40-45 HP at peak RPM (specific figures often not officially published for MX bikes of this era, but indicative)
Torque:
Significant low-end and mid-range torque characteristic of larger displacement two-strokes.
Carburetor Size:
Likely 34mm or 36mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline mixed with two-stroke oil (e.g., 20:1 to 40:1 ratio, consult manual for exact recommendation)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 - 3.0 Gallons (typical for MX bikes of the era)
Overall Length:
Varies, specific dimensions in manual.
Overall Width:
Varies, specific dimensions in manual.
Seat Height:
Varies, specific dimensions in manual.
Dry Weight:
Approx. 235 - 240 lbs (107 - 109 kg) (specifics in manual)
Wet Weight:
Varies with fuel and fluids, not typically a primary spec.
Oil Change:
Gearbox oil change recommended every 10-15 hours of use or annually. Crankcase oil (for 2-stroke mix) is determined by fuel mixture ratio.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Frequent cleaning recommended, especially in dusty conditions (e.g., after every few rides).
Spark Plug Service:
Inspect and clean/gap spark plug every 5-10 hours, replace as needed.
Chain Lubrication:
Lubricate chain regularly, ideally after every ride, and adjust tension as per manual specifications.
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 80 or SAE 10W-30 motorcycle gear oil. Capacity: ~1.1 Liters (check manual for exact fill level).
Two Stroke Oil:
High-quality, JASO FD or higher rated synthetic or semi-synthetic 2-stroke oil. Mix ratio: 20:1 to 40:1 (consult manual).
Fork Oil:
Specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W) and volume per fork leg detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (if applicable for disc brakes).
Common Problems:
Common issues can include worn clutch plates, carburetor tuning difficulties, aging electrical components (stator, CDI), suspension seal leaks, and wear in the kickstart mechanism. Overheating can occur if not maintained properly due to air-cooling.
Performance Degradation:
Loss of power due to worn piston rings, cylinder bore, or reed valves.