Positioning:
The Yamaha YFM225 Moto 4 was positioned as an entry-level to mid-range sport/utility ATV, appealing to riders seeking versatility for recreation and light work.
Competitors:
Competed with offerings from Honda (e.g., TRX250), Kawasaki (e.g., KLF220 Bayou), and Suzuki (e.g., LT-F250 QuadRunner).
Key Features:
Known for its reliable air-cooled engine, shaft drive for reduced maintenance, and comfortable riding position.
Value:
This manual provides essential information for owners to maintain and operate their 1987 Yamaha YFM225 Moto 4 safely and effectively, preserving its longevity and performance.
Manual Type:
Owner's/Operator's Manual
Indexed Bookmarked Searchable:
True
Printability:
Pages, Sections, Chapters, Diagrams, Charts, Partials or Totally
Engine System:
Detailed coverage of the engine, including components, operation, and basic maintenance.
Fuel System:
Information on the carburetor, fuel tank, fuel lines, and filtration.
Ignition System:
Spark plug, ignition coil, and CDI unit specifications and maintenance.
Transmission System:
Operation and maintenance of the automatic transmission.
Drive System:
Details on the shaft drive system and differential.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, adjustments, and maintenance.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake operation, maintenance, and fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, lighting, starter motor, and basic wiring diagrams.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine operation and related components.
Steering System:
Handlebar, steering column, and tie rod maintenance.
Frame And Body:
Basic inspection of frame and body components.
Lighting System:
Headlight, taillight, and brake light operation and bulb replacement.
Controls And Instruments:
Explanation of dashboard indicators, controls, and their functions.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain/drive shaft lubrication.
Pre Ride Inspection:
Checklists and guidelines for safe operation before each ride.
Troubleshooting:
Guidance for identifying and resolving common operational issues.
Lubrication:
Specific points and types of lubricants for various components.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle, throttle cable, and brake lever adjustments.
Wheel And Tire Maintenance:
Information on tire pressure, inspection, and potentially wheel bearing checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level maintenance and operation. Focuses on what the user can and should do to maintain their ATV.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Basic troubleshooting for common issues like starting problems, poor running conditions, and electrical faults.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
66 mm x 65 mm
Ignition:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Horsepower Estimate:
~14-16 HP (estimated, not officially published for this model year)
Torque Estimate:
~14-16 lb-ft (estimated, not officially published for this model year)
Carburetor:
Mikuni VM26SS (or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
2.6 US gallons (9.8 L)
Atv Safety Standards:
Adherence to relevant ATV safety guidelines of the era.
Braking System Description:
Hydraulic disc front brakes, mechanical drum rear brake. Lever-actuated.
Throttle Limiter:
Not explicitly mentioned as a user-adjustable feature, but designed for controllable acceleration.
Safety Warnings:
Manual emphasizes safe riding practices, protective gear, and understanding terrain.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 600 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or more frequently with severe use.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean every 300 miles or 3 months, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Inspect every 600 miles or 6 months.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Recommended every 12 months or as needed based on inspection.
Valve Clearance Check:
Recommended every 1200 miles or 12 months.
Engine Oil Spec:
Yamalube 4 (or API SE, SF, SG classified 10W-30)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Grease Type:
General-purpose lithium-base grease
Common Wear Items:
Wear on carburetor jets, aging brake components, drive shaft U-joints, and suspension bushings are common on older units.
Storage Recommendations:
Manual provides guidance on proper storage, including fuel stabilization and battery care.
Yamaha Atv History:
Yamaha has a long-standing history in ATV manufacturing, starting with the three-wheeled 'Tri-Z' and moving to the four-wheeled 'Moto 4' series.
Moto 4 Lineage:
The Moto 4 series, introduced in the early 1980s, represented Yamaha's entry into the popular four-wheel ATV market, offering a blend of performance and utility.
Production Period:
The YFM225 Moto 4 was produced through the mid to late 1980s.
Market Impact:
Contributed to the growing popularity of ATVs for recreational and utility purposes during a key growth period for the industry.