Positioning:
The Yamaha Virago line, particularly the XV700/XV750 models, represented Yamaha's entry into the V-twin cruiser market, competing with established models from Harley-Davidson and Japanese rivals.
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Intruder series.
Engine Configuration:
V-twin, air-cooled engine, often with 45-degree V-angle, known for its distinctive torque delivery and rumble.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, offering low maintenance compared to chain drives.
Styling:
Classic cruiser styling with teardrop fuel tanks, low seat heights, and ample chrome accents.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, internal components, timing, valve adjustments, piston/ring inspection, cylinder honing, crankshaft/connecting rod service.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (VM series) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, synchronisation, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank service.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing verification, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, horn, fuses.
Cooling System:
Air cooling system management, cylinder head/barrel fin cleaning, airflow optimization.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox disassembly/assembly, clutch service (friction plates, springs, operation), final drive (shaft drive) inspection and lubrication, U-joint maintenance.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads replacement, bleeding procedures, drum brake (rear on some models) service.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic) service (oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment and service, swingarm bearing inspection.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection for damage, alignment checks, engine mounting bolt torque specifications.
Bodywork Trim:
Fuel tank removal/installation, seat removal, fender replacement, side cover attachment, handlebar replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though most are shaft drive), tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Rebuilds Overhauls:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing major components like brake calipers, starter motors, ignition coils, etc.
Adjustments:
Carburetor sync, idle speed, clutch lever free play, brake lever free play, steering head bearing preload.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides and flowcharts for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.
Rebuild Specs:
Includes critical torque values, clearances, and tolerances for all major engine and chassis components.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Typically text-searchable PDF allowing quick access to specific topics.
Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
Binding Recommendation:
Digital delivery (PDF), user printable. Professional binding recommended for printed copies.
Paper Recommendation:
For printed copies: Durable, matte finish paper for longevity in a workshop environment.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve per cylinder V-twin
Bore X Stroke Xv750:
83 mm x 69.2 mm
Bore X Stroke Xv700:
74 mm x 81 mm (with smaller bore to meet import restrictions at the time)
Displacement Xv750:
748 cc
Displacement Xv700:
694 cc
Compression Ratio Xv750:
8.4:1
Compression Ratio Xv700:
8.7:1
Horsepower Xv750 Approx:
50-55 HP
Torque Xv750 Approx:
60-65 Nm
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM Series carburetors (e.g., VM34SS or similar)
Fuel Capacity Tank:
Approx. 11-13 Liters (varies by sub-model/year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (API SG or higher, JASO MA certified)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 2.4 Liters
Oil Filter Part Number Common:
Yamaha 4X7-13440-00 / 5H0-13440-00 / 3GM-13440-00 (check specific model/year)
NHTSA Rating:
Not applicable (Motorcycle, pre-dates standardized automotive safety ratings for bikes)
Braking System:
Dual Disc Front, Single Disc Rear (or Drum on some early/base models)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED/incandescent tail and signal lights.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame, designed for stability and rider comfort.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and forward-mounted footpegs contributing to a relaxed riding posture.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km or 6-12 months (whichever comes first), refer to manual for precise recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (check manual for specific type and gap)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000-6,000 km (depending on riding conditions)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (critical for engine performance and longevity)
Shaft Drive Fluid Change:
Every 10,000-20,000 km (check manual)
Coolant Type:
Air-cooled (no coolant specified)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (refer to manual for exact specification)
Carburetor Issues:
Varnish buildup in carburetors from sitting, leading to poor idle or running problems. Requires cleaning and synchronization.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loosening of electrical connectors, especially ground points and under the fuel tank, can cause intermittent electrical faults.
Regulator Rectifier:
Older units can be prone to failure, leading to overcharging or undercharging of the battery. Upgraded aftermarket units are available.
Fork Seals:
Leaking fork seals are common wear items, especially on older bikes.
Heritage:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for innovation, performance, and reliability.
Virago Line Introduction:
The Virago line was introduced in the early 1980s to capture the growing cruiser market. The XV700/XV750 were key models in establishing Yamaha's presence in this segment.
Xv700 Context:
The XV700 was introduced in the US market in 1984 to circumvent import tariffs on motorcycles exceeding 700cc, featuring a slightly smaller bore.
Xv750 Context:
The XV750 was the larger displacement model, often available in various trims (e.g., Virago Custom, Virago II) throughout its production run.
Production Period:
1981-1997 (covering the XV750 primarily, with XV700 introduced later and phasing out as XV750 models continued).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Primary)
