Segment:
Sporty and performance-oriented lightweight motorcycle, popular in its era for its agile handling and spirited performance.
Competitors:
Competed with similar offerings from Honda (e.g., CB series), Suzuki (e.g., TS series), and Kawasaki (e.g., KH series) in the 50cc to 125cc performance segment.
Performance Focus:
Designed for spirited riding, often featuring advanced engine technology for its displacement class.
Handling:
Emphasis on nimble and responsive handling characteristics.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for Yamaha RX-500/U
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific edition; typically 200-400 pages for a complete service manual of this era's motorcycles.
Language:
English (common for international models, verify with specific download)
Format:
Digital (PDF Download)
Engine:
Disassembly, inspection, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, lubrication, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plug specifications, ignition timing, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, assembly, clutch operation, lubrication, troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front fork disassembly, seal replacement, oil specifications, rear shock absorber adjustment and maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system overhaul, pad replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), battery maintenance, starter system, horn.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, steering system, wheel bearing maintenance, body panel removal/installation, exhaust system.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, symptom-based solutions for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, reassembly, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Includes methods for checking ignition timing, compression testing, electrical continuity, and carburetor performance.
Level Of Detail:
Detailed specifications, tolerances, torque values, and step-by-step repair procedures for professional mechanics and experienced DIYers.
Type:
Two-stroke, single-cylinder (typical for RX-500)
Displacement:
Approximately 50cc (specific variant may vary, e.g., RX-50)
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to manual for exact specifications (typical for 50cc 2-stroke: ~40mm x 39.2mm)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 7-9 HP (estimated, depends on specific tuning and market variant)
Torque:
Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Carburetor Model:
Typically a Mikuni VM series (e.g., VM16SH or similar).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with two-stroke oil mix (e.g., 20:1 or 30:1 ratio, refer to manual for precise recommendation).
Overall Length:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Overall Width:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Overall Height:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 80-90 kg (estimated)
Wet Weight:
Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle, not typically rated by automotive crash safety organizations)
Handling:
Designed for agility and rider control.
Lighting:
Standard headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Oil Change:
Every 1,000-1,500 km or annually (refer to manual for precise interval).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (refer to manual for exact recommendation and gap setting).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 1,000 km or as needed, depending on operating conditions.
Transmission Oil:
Yamalube SAE 10W-30 or equivalent API SE/SF (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation and capacity).
Fork Oil:
Yamalube Fork Oil 10W or equivalent (refer to manual for exact grade and quantity per fork leg).
Carburetor:
Clogging due to stale fuel, sticky throttle slide, wear in jets affecting mixture.
Engine Seals:
Leaking crank seals or transmission seals due to age and heat cycles.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or looseness in wiring harnesses, especially at grounds and connectors, leading to intermittent faults.
Suspension:
Worn fork bushings, leaking fork seals, weakened rear shock absorbers.
Historical Impact:
The RX-500/U series contributed to Yamaha's reputation for producing exciting and reliable small-displacement motorcycles, influencing the design and performance expectations in its class.
Performance Reviews:
Contemporary reviews often praised its sporty handling, peppy engine, and stylish design for the time.
Emissions:
Compliance with emissions standards of its era (specific standards vary by market and year).
