Description:
The Yamaha XVZ13A Royal Star is a flagship V-four cruiser known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and classic styling. This manual is targeted at owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge to maintain and repair these premium motorcycles.
Market Segment:
Full-size cruiser motorcycle market, competing with models from Harley-Davidson, Honda Gold Wing (in touring aspect), and other large-displacement cruisers.
Vehicle Highlight:
The Royal Star is characterized by its distinctive V-four engine, shaft drive, and luxurious touring capabilities, often featuring extensive chrome and comfortable ergonomics.
Powertrain:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and injection depending on variant), exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (gearbox) overhaul, clutch system, driveshaft, final drive (shaft drive).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (including adjustments and seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, steering system, wheel bearings, braking system (front and rear calipers, master cylinders, lines, pads/shoes), suspension linkage.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI, coils, spark plugs), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrumentation, battery, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fault diagnosis.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, body panels, seat removal, fuel tank, fenders, luggage systems (where applicable), basic cosmetic repair guidance.
Maintenance:
Routine service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/shaft drive adjustment, brake fluid replacement, coolant flush, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, symptoms and causes, electrical system diagnostics using multimeters, engine performance problems.
Repair Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, carburetor synchronization and rebuilding, brake system repairs, front fork rebuilds, electrical component replacement, fuel system component servicing.
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific procedures, though not always providing instructions for fabricating them.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and diagnostic procedures. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, V-four, 4-stroke, DOHC, 32 valves
Displacement:
1294cc (79.0 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
73.0 mm x 77.0 mm
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 98 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque Est:
Approx. 86 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (likely Mikuni B-40 constant velocity carburetors, 4 x 36mm, though later models or variants might differ, necessitating checking specific sub-model details in the manual).
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, SAE 20W-40 or 10W-30 depending on climate)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.2 L (4.4 US qt)
Coolant Type:
Yamaha Coolant (or equivalent 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water)
Ignition Type:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Type Est:
NGK CR9E or Denso U27ESR-N (confirm specific plug for model year/variant)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple disc, cable operated
Final Drive Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 180 ml (0.19 US qt)
Length:
Approx. 2430 mm (95.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1445 mm (56.9 in)
Dry Weight Est:
Approx. 273 kg (602 lbs)
Wet Weight Est:
Approx. 300 kg (661 lbs) (fully fueled, with fluids)
Fuel Capacity:
22 L (5.8 US gal) (including 3.5 L reserve)
Front Tire Size:
150/80-16M/C 71V
Rear Tire Size:
150/80-16M/C 71V
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Certification:
Meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards for motorcycles.
Braking System:
Dual 298mm hydraulic disc brakes (front), Single 282mm hydraulic disc brake (rear). Some models may feature linked braking or ABS depending on exact specification.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, standard incandescent turn signals. Hazard light function may be present.
Audio System:
Factory-installed audio systems (radio/cassette/CD) were options on many Royal Star models, often integrated into the fairing or handlebars.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control was an available factory option or dealer installed accessory on many Royal Star models, particularly those geared towards touring.
Accessories:
The manual will detail wiring provisions and installation guides for various factory and aftermarket accessories such as auxiliary lighting, heated grips, and luggage systems.
Dashboard Features:
Includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, odometer, trip meter, and various indicator lights. The manual explains the function and diagnosis of all gauges and warning lamps.
First Service:
1000 km (600 miles) or 1 month
Subsequent Service:
Every 6000 km (4000 miles) or 6 months
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified for older components)
Coolant Specification:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water
Typical Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates (with high mileage), fork seals, wheel bearings, exhaust pipe corrosion.
Engine Considerations:
Some owners report occasional issues with carburetors needing synchronization or minor adjustments. The V-four engine is generally robust, but proper cooling system maintenance is crucial to prevent overheating.
Electrical Considerations:
While generally reliable, aging wiring harnesses or connectors can sometimes develop corrosion or high resistance. Battery maintenance is important.
Manual Inclusion:
The manual typically includes detailed parts diagrams and part numbers for many components, aiding in repair and replacement.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich heritage in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance, innovation, and reliability across various segments.
Royal Star Lineage:
The Royal Star line, introduced in the mid-1990s, was Yamaha's bold entry into the large-displacement, American-style cruiser market, leveraging the proven V-four engine architecture.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in the USA for certain markets.
Key Design Philosophy:
To create a luxurious, powerful, and comfortable cruiser with distinctive styling that could compete directly with established American brands, while incorporating Japanese engineering precision.
Motorcycle Reviews:
The Royal Star line generally received positive reviews for its power, handling, comfort, and distinctive V-four character, often praised for its ability to bridge the gap between traditional cruisers and touring motorcycles.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliant with emissions regulations for the respective model years in the primary markets of sale (e.g., EPA, CARB in the US).
