Market Position:
The Yamaha XT 225 is a lightweight, dual-purpose motorcycle designed for versatility, appealing to riders for trail riding, light off-roading, and general commuting. It occupies a niche for accessible, reliable, and user-friendly adventure or dual-sport motorcycles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with other dual-sport motorcycles in its displacement class, such as Honda XR250, Kawasaki KLX250S, and Suzuki DR200SE. Its key strengths are its approachable power, light weight, and relative simplicity.
Key Features:
Air-cooled engine, electric start, tractable power delivery, comfortable riding position, durable construction, capable suspension for mixed terrain.
Coverage Years:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Estimated Page Count:
Over 300 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, top end, bottom end, valve timing, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, starting system, carburetor tuning and troubleshooting.
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, gear shift mechanism, lubrication.
Chassis Systems:
Front suspension (forks), rear suspension (monoshock, linkage), steering system, wheel bearing maintenance, spoke tensioning, wheel removal and installation.
Braking Systems:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake (or disc on some later models), hydraulic system, pad replacement, caliper maintenance, brake fluid flush.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, ignition coil, CDI unit, troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing.
Bodywork And Frame:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, handlebars, footpegs.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks, bolt torque specifications.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, carburetor overhaul, suspension repairs, electrical system diagnostics and repair, clutch replacement, brake system servicing, wheel truing.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, identifying causes and solutions for performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians. Covers basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve, Air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
67.0 mm x 63.4 mm
Horsepower Approx:
16.5 - 18 HP @ 7500 RPM (depending on market and specific year)
Torque Approx:
18 Nm (13.3 lb-ft) @ 6000 RPM (depending on market and specific year)
Carburetor Type:
Mikuni VM26SS (or similar 26mm constant velocity carburetor)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 AKI / 91 RON)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt)
Cooling Method:
Forced Air Cooling
Transmission Type:
Constant Mesh, 6-speed
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple disc, cable operated
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in the manual.
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamaha Motorcycle Gear Oil or equivalent SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.8 Liters (0.85 US qt)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,145 mm (84.4 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 830 mm (32.7 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,155 mm (45.5 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 855 mm (33.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,385 mm (54.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 285 mm (11.2 in)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 10 Liters (2.6 US gal)
Fuel Tank Capacity Reserve:
Approx. 2 Liters (0.5 US gal)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 120 kg (264.6 lbs)
Wet Weight Approx:
Approx. 129 kg (284.4 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not have standardized crash test ratings like cars).
Active Safety Features:
Disc front brake, Drum rear brake (or disc on some later models), reliable chassis dynamics for its class.
Passive Safety Features:
Sturdy frame construction, impact-resistant plastic body panels.
Infotainment Features:
N/A (Basic motorcycle with analog instrumentation).
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Basic motorcycle with no electronic rider aids).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Analog systems).
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 km (1,200-1,800 miles) or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.
Chain Lubrication Interval:
Every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles) and after washing or riding in rain.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 is commonly recommended.
Engine Oil Standard:
API Service SG or higher.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Common Issues:
Carburetor jetting issues (especially at altitude), occasional electrical connector corrosion, rear shock absorber wear, clutch cable adjustment, chain and sprocket wear.
Known Issues Detailed:
Some owners report the need for carburetor rejetting for optimal performance in varied conditions. The electric starter mechanism can sometimes require attention if not properly maintained. The air-cooled engine's efficiency can be impacted by dirt buildup on cooling fins.
Part Numbers:
Specific OEM part numbers for all components are detailed within the manual, crucial for accurate replacement.
Brand Heritage:
Yamaha has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for innovation, performance, and reliability across a wide range of motorcycling disciplines, from street bikes to off-road and racing machines.
Model Evolution:
The XT 225 (Serow) line began in the early 1980s and evolved through various iterations. This particular manual covers the generation that spanned from 1996 to 2006, characterized by continued refinement of the air-cooled engine, chassis, and styling, with minor updates across the years.
Production Locations:
Primarily Japan (e.g., Iwata factory) and potentially other Yamaha global manufacturing facilities.
Production Period:
The XT225 was produced from the early 1980s until its eventual replacement by the fuel-injected XT250 in 2005/2006 in many markets.
Recognitions:
While the XT 225 may not have received specific "awards" in the traditional sense, it is widely recognized for its reliability, ease of use, and value in the dual-sport market, earning it a loyal following among riders.
User Ratings:
Consistently high user ratings for durability, fuel economy, and suitability for beginners and light adventure touring.
