Market Segment:
Sport-Touring / Cruiser Motorcycle
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha Virago series, Kawasaki Vulcan series of similar displacement during the early 1990s.
Engine Layout:
Unique 45-degree V-twin engine with liquid cooling and shaft drive, offering a blend of power and low maintenance.
Design Philosophy:
Designed for comfortable long-distance riding with a focus on reliability and smooth power delivery.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a comfortable, reliable, and stylish medium-displacement V-twin motorcycle for touring and general riding.
Engine Mechanics:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly including cylinder head, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, and lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor system (Mikuni BDSR36), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance and inspection.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition), spark plugs, ignition coils, pickup coils, and timing inspection.
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch operation (hydraulic), gearbox disassembly, inspection, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, final drive gear inspection and maintenance.
Suspension:
Front telescopic forks (adjustable preload on some models), rear monoshock suspension (linkage type), fork oil change, seal replacement, shock absorber inspection.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, brake caliper overhaul, master cylinder servicing, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, instruments, and battery maintenance.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled engine, radiator, coolant hoses, water pump inspection and service.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, exhaust gasket replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, swingarm, steering head bearing maintenance, fairings, body panels, seat removal.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable, though shaft drive), coolant checks, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and engine noise.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement across all major vehicle systems.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring components and systems to optimal working condition.
Torqu Specifications:
Torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, chassis, suspension, brakes).
Special Tools:
Identification of special tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed exploded views and diagrams.
Diagnostic Information:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and common fault finding charts.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all model years covered.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval).
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or as needed based on riding conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000-16,000 km (7,500-10,000 miles) or as recommended.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000-24,000 km (7,500-15,000 miles) depending on wear and manufacturer recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
API SE, SF, SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 Liters (2.9 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Telescopic fork oil (e.g., Showa SS-10 or equivalent, viscosity and level specified in manual).
Carburetor Synchronization:
Carburetors can require periodic synchronization for smooth running.
Stator Failure:
Early models may experience stator winding failures affecting the charging system.
Rear Shock ABSorber:
Original rear shock may degrade over time, affecting ride comfort and handling.
Fuel Line Perishing:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade with age and exposure to fuel additives, requiring replacement.
Suzuki Motorcycle Division:
Suzuki has a long-standing history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and reliability, dating back to the mid-20th century.
Vx800 Development:
The VX800 was introduced as Suzuki's competitor in the mid-size cruiser/sport-touring segment, leveraging their V-twin engine technology.
Design Changes 1990-1993:
Minor cosmetic updates and potential component refinements across the model years (L, M, N, P). Specific changes would be detailed in the manual.
Production Period:
1990-1997 (The manual covers the initial production years)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
