Market Position:
High-performance sportbike of its era, often referred to as a 'superbike' for its advanced technology and performance.
Unique Selling Proposition:
The RD500LC offered a V4, liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine in a production motorcycle, a unique combination that delivered incredible power and performance.
Competitors:
Honda VF750 Interceptor, Suzuki RG500 Gamma, Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja
Features:
V4 two-stroke engine, liquid cooling, advanced Y.P.V.S. (Yamaha Power Valve System), high-revving performance, significant technological advancements for its time.
Engine Design:
The V4 configuration provided a compact and balanced engine, contributing to the bike's handling characteristics.
Systems:
General Information, Fuel System, Cooling System, Engine Top End, Clutch, Engine Lubrication System, Engine Removal/Installation, Crankshaft/Transmission, Wheels/Tires, Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System, Appendix
Electrical System Details:
Includes wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for ignition, lighting, charging systems, and accessories.
Fuel System Details:
Covers carburetor overhaul, cleaning, jetting, fuel pump operation, and fuel tank maintenance.
Cooling System Details:
Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant checks and replacement procedures.
Procedures:
Maintenance, Diagnosis, Repair, Troubleshooting, Engine Fault Symptom Analysis, Part Testing Techniques, Wiring Diagram Tracing, Engine Management System Analysis, Common Fixes, Mechanic Consultation Guidance
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension adjustments, brake servicing, and electrical component replacement.
Tuning Procedures:
Includes information on engine tuning, carburetor adjustments, and Y.P.V.S. system calibration for optimal performance.
Depth:
Complete factory-level detail, step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, diagrams, photos, troubleshooting guide, advanced diagnostic techniques
Diagnostic Techniques:
Provides guidance on diagnosing engine faults, electrical gremlins, and performance issues using specific testing methods and troubleshooting trees.
File Compatibility:
Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Printability:
Printable without restriction, individual pages or entire manual
Searchability:
Searchable PDF allowing quick location of information.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, V4
Bore X Stroke:
54 x 54 mm (approximate, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Horsepower Estimated:
89 hp @ 9,000 rpm (approximate, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Torque Estimated:
71 Nm @ 8,500 rpm (approximate, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Compression Ratio:
Refer to manual for exact compression ratio specifications.
Carburetor Type:
Mikuni VM26SS x 4 (or similar)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacity and recommendations on fuel octane rating.
Infotainment Features:
N/A (Motorcycle of this era predates modern infotainment systems).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Motorcycle of this era predates modern driver assistance systems).
Engine Management System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with potentially advanced timing curves and Y.P.V.S. control system. Detailed information on analysis and tuning in the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time intervals for engine oil and 2-stroke oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (refer to manual for specific type and mixture ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Two Stroke Oil Spec:
High-quality 2-stroke motorcycle oil, JASO FD or API TC rated (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Gear Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity and specification (e.g., SAE 80W/90 hypoid gear oil).
Common Issues:
Potential issues include carburetor synchronization, reed valve wear, ignition system components, and cooling system maintenance. Detailed troubleshooting covered in manual.
Carburetor Issues:
Common issues can include clogging, diaphragm wear, and the need for regular synchronization due to the four individual carburetors.
Maintenance Schedule:
Comprehensive schedule for checks, adjustments, and replacements at various mileage intervals provided in the manual.
Yamaha Heritage:
Yamaha has a rich history in motorsports and performance motorcycles, known for innovation and sporting success.
Rd Series Evolution:
The RD500LC followed a lineage of successful RZ two-stroke sportbikes, representing a peak in Yamaha's two-stroke development before the shift to four-strokes.
Rd500Lc Significance:
Considered a 'homologation special' in some markets, designed to compete in racing, and brought cutting-edge two-stroke technology to the street.
Production Years:
1984-1985 (for this specific model and manual coverage)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan