Target Audience:
Professional motorcycle technicians, experienced DIY enthusiasts, and owners seeking comprehensive restoration and maintenance data for the Yamaha SR500.
Value Proposition:
Provides the same in-depth information used by professional technicians, enabling users to perform virtually any repair or maintenance task on their SR500, saving time and money compared to shop labor.
Clarity Of Instructions:
Features numbered instructions, detailed illustrations, and enlarged insets for precise component identification and procedural guidance.
Diagnostic Integration:
Combines troubleshooting guides with detailed wiring diagrams for efficient electrical system diagnostics.
Accessibility:
Instant download format eliminates shipping costs and delivery delays, making critical repair information immediately available.
Model Years:
1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
Estimated Pages:
N/A (Digital PDF, typically extensive)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed inspection, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair of the SR500's single-cylinder engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series) overhaul, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel tank maintenance.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system diagnostics, spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, and component testing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear inspection, and transmission oil specifications.
Drivetrain:
Chain drive maintenance, sprockets, and final drive lubrication.
Suspension:
Front fork overhaul, oil levels, seals, and rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement.
Brakes:
Front disc brake system (caliper, master cylinder, disc inspection, fluid flush) and rear drum brake adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator/stator), starter motor, and fuses.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing adjustment, and general chassis maintenance.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fuel tank, seat, fenders, and other body panels installation and removal.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustments, brake checks, tire pressure, and general lubrication schedules.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed steps for complete engine disassembly, piston and cylinder inspection, valve adjustments, and reassembly.
Carburetor Tuning:
Step-by-step instructions for cleaning, rebuilding, and jetting the Mikuni carburetor for optimal performance.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of ignition components, charging system output, and troubleshooting using wiring diagrams.
Suspension Overhaul:
Front fork seal replacement, damping rod inspection, and rear shock servicing.
Brake System Maintenance:
Bleeding procedures, pad replacement, and master cylinder seal replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics aiming for full restoration or advanced repairs.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including voltage, resistance, and continuity testing.
Rebuild Procedures:
Full engine and component rebuild instructions, including torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, Air-cooled Single Cylinder
Displacement:
499 cc (30.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm (3.62 in x 2.95 in)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typically, may vary slightly by year)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 32-34 HP @ 6,500 RPM (varies by year and market regulations)
Torque:
Approx. 28-30 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM (varies by year)
Carburetor:
Mikuni VM34 (typically) or similar, single slide carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.4 liters (2.5 quarts) with filter change
Oil Type:
Yamaha recommends SAE 20W-40 or 10W-30 API SE or SF class motorcycle oil.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or annually.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after washing/riding in rain.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, per manual recommendation.
Fork Oil:
Yamalube Fork Oil (or equivalent 10W or 15W, check manual for specific grade).
Kickstart Return Spring:
Can occasionally wear or break, leading to a non-returning kickstart lever.
Carburetor Tuning:
Mikuni VM series can be sensitive to altitude and air filter changes, requiring periodic adjustment.
Oil Leaks:
Common with aging motorcycles; often from valve cover gasket, pushrod seals, or base gasket.
Ignition Coil:
Can fail over time, affecting spark.
Heritage:
Yamaha's reputation for building reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles, particularly known for their Thumper engines.
Evolution:
The SR500 was developed as a simple, robust, and stylish single-cylinder motorcycle, drawing inspiration from classic British designs while incorporating Japanese engineering. It served as a platform for customization and was popular for its raw, visceral riding experience.
Production Period:
1978-1999 (with variations across markets and specific models like SR400).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan