Model Designations:
XVS650 DragStar, XVS650A V Star Classic, XVS650AT V Star Silverado
Covered Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Chassis Codes:
VM02, VM03, VM04, VM05
Target Audience:
Yamaha V Star 650 owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, service technicians, and DIY enthusiasts
Primary Use:
Facilitate DIY repairs, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Yamaha V Star 650 cruiser motorcycle, reducing reliance on professional service.
Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, detailed information equivalent to factory service manuals, enabling comprehensive service and repair at a fraction of the cost.
Content Focus:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, clear illustrations and diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics.
Download Benefit:
Instant access to critical service information, allowing immediate problem-solving and maintenance planning.
Engine:
Top-end overhaul, bottom-end rebuild, cylinder head, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, ignition system, fuel system (carburetors)
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive system)
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheel bearings, wheels, tires
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, brake pad replacement, caliper service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, switches, sensors, instrument cluster
Bodywork:
Body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though V Star 650 has shaft drive), lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault finding based on symptoms
Repair:
Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, part numbers
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance and routine checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component repair.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin
Displacement:
649 cc (39.6 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 71.0 mm (3.0 in x 2.8 in)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 45 HP @ 6500 RPM (Model dependent)
Torque:
Approx. 50 Nm (37 lb-ft) @ 3000 RPM (Model dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Dual 28mm Mikuni downdraft carburetors (VM28SS for most models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.0 US gal (15 L)
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 10W-40 or equivalent motorcycle oil API SG or higher, JASO MA certified
Oil Capacity With Filter:
2.70 US qt (2.55 L)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Yamaha: 5JX-13440-00-00, Hiflofiltro: HF145, K&N: KN-145
Overall Length:
Approx. 93.1 in (2365 mm) (V Star Classic), 97.4 in (2475 mm) (DragStar)
Overall Width:
Approx. 35.6 in (905 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 44.5 in (1130 mm) (V Star Classic)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.6 in (1640 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.7 in (145 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 456 lbs (207 kg) (V Star Classic)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 476 lbs (216 kg) (V Star Classic)
Gvwr:
Not specified by Yamaha, but refer to rider/passenger weight limits in owner's manual.
Front Tire Size:
130/90-16M/C 67H
Rear Tire Size:
170/80-15M/C 77H
Wheel Type:
Spoked wheels (chrome finish on Classic/Silverado)
Wheelbase:
1640 mm (64.6 in)
Safety Standards:
Meets or exceeds all applicable US EPA, DOT, and industry safety standards for motorcycles of its era.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc front, drum brake rear (early models), hydraulic disc rear (later models/Silverado)
Front Brake Spec:
298mm hydraulic disc
Rear Brake Spec:
200mm drum (early), 298mm hydraulic disc (later/Silverado)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light, incandescent turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel double-cradle frame
Handlebar Design:
Wide cruiser-style handlebars for stable control
Infotainment System:
N/A (This is a traditional cruiser, not equipped with modern infotainment systems).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like traction control or ABS were standard on most V Star 650 models of this era).
Instrument Panel:
Analog speedometer, odometer, trip meter, tachometer (on some models or as an accessory), neutral indicator, oil pressure warning light, turn signal indicators.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every 7,000 miles (11,000 km) or 12 months, or with every oil change for optimal protection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 7,000 miles (11,000 km), replace as needed (recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles depending on plug type).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or annually, replace as needed.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or 12,000 miles (19,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 24 months or 12,000 miles (19,000 km).
Shaft Drive Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 12 months.
Engine Oil Specification:
Yamalube 4 10W-40 (API SG or higher, JASO MA)
Transmission Oil Specification:
Yamalube SAE 80 API GL-4
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Coolant Specification:
Yamaha-specific or high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Carburetor Issues:
Potential for gumming or clogging of carburetors if fuel sits for extended periods; requires periodic cleaning and synchronization.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
While generally reliable, periodic inspection and lubrication of the shaft drive splines is recommended to prevent corrosion or wear.
Regulator Rectifier Failure:
Some units of this era may be prone to regulator/rectifier failure, leading to charging system issues. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Essential for smooth running, especially after carburetor cleaning or internal adjustments.
Front Fork Seals:
Like many motorcycles, front fork seals can develop leaks over time and may require replacement, a procedure well-documented in the manual.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company is a Japanese manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality motorcycles across various segments, known for innovation and performance.
V Star Lineage:
The V Star 650 (also known as DragStar in some markets) was introduced as Yamaha's entry-level, mid-size cruiser, inheriting styling cues from larger V-twin cruisers and offering a comfortable, accessible riding experience.
Key Updates 1998-2009:
While the core platform remained consistent, minor updates included color schemes, accessory options, and refinement of the rear brake system from drum to disc on some variants (e.g., V Star Silverado).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Introduction:
1997 (as DragStar 650), 1998 (as V Star 650 in North America)
Production Run:
The XVS650 platform was produced for many years, with the 1998-2009 period representing a significant chunk of its primary development and sales history.
Motorcycle Awards:
While specific awards for the V Star 650 are not widely publicized, it consistently received positive reviews from motorcycle publications for its reliability, comfortable ride, classic styling, and value for money in the cruiser segment.
Reliability Ratings:
Generally considered a very reliable motorcycle with a strong track record for durability when properly maintained, as evidenced by its long production run and continued popularity.
