Segment:
Mid-size cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, user-friendly cruiser with Yamaha reliability. Popular for both new riders and experienced enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Suzuki Intruder series, Kawasaki Vulcan series.
Design:
Classic V-twin cruiser styling, low seat height, comfortable riding position, teardrop fuel tank.
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, 70-degree V-twin engine.
Covered Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Pages:
300-400 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, valve adjustment, carburetor tuning, fuel system (including fuel pump and filters), ignition system (CDI, spark plugs, coils), cooling system (air-cooled aspects, oil cooler).
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift mechanism, transmission oil specifications and change intervals.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, inspection, seal replacement, oil levels and specifications. Rear shock absorber inspection and replacement. Swingarm and bearing maintenance. Wheel bearing service. Frame inspection.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, brake fluid type and bleeding procedures, pad replacement, disc inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system (headlight, tail light, indicators), starter motor, ignition system troubleshooting, fuse identification and replacement, instrument cluster.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Mikuni BS34) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, jetting information. Fuel tank maintenance, petcock operation, fuel lines and filter replacement.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement, heat shield maintenance.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, seat removal, tank cover, side covers, fairing (if applicable) components. General cosmetic component care.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, tire pressure checks, brake system checks, battery checks, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues. Symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls (engine, transmission, forks, brakes).
Inspection:
Detailed inspection points for critical components and safety items.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, idle speed adjustment, clutch lever free play, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Type:
4-stroke, air-cooled, V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 58.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 45 hp @ 7500 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 45 Nm (33 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni BS34 constant velocity carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 13.0 Liters (3.4 US gal)
System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
System:
Basic motorcycle instrumentation: Speedometer, tachometer (on some models), odometer, trip meter, indicator lights (turn signal, oil pressure, high beam).
Features:
None (Standard motorcycle technology for its era).
Features:
None (Standard motorcycle technology for its era).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 km (1,800 - 3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles), depending on riding conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles).
Valve Adjustment:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 1-2 years.
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500 - 1,000 km (300 - 600 miles) and after washing/rain.
Engine Oil:
Yamaha recommends SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 API SG or higher. Check manual for precise viscosity based on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.4 Liters (2.5 US qt) without filter change, 2.6 Liters (2.8 US qt) with filter change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification and front/rear differences if any).
Fork Oil:
Yamaha Fork Oil (or equivalent) SAE 10W is common. Specific amount per fork leg detailed in manual.
Carburetor Issues:
Common issues include clogged jets, worn float needles, and vacuum leaks affecting idle and throttle response. Diaphragm wear can also occur.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded connectors, failing regulator/rectifiers, and aging wiring can lead to charging issues or intermittent electrical faults.
Rear Drum Brake Performance:
Early models with rear drum brakes may require frequent adjustment and can offer less stopping power than later disc brake versions.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
While generally reliable, the shaft drive requires periodic lubrication of the drive shaft splines and final drive gears.
Legacy:
Yamaha has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles, particularly in the cruiser segment with the Virago line.
Introduction:
The XV535 Virago was introduced in the early 1980s as Yamaha's entry into the mid-size cruiser market, evolving through the 80s and 90s with minor updates.
Key Updates During Coverage:
Improvements often included minor styling tweaks, updated braking systems (rear disc adoption), and potentially emissions control adjustments. Core mechanics remained largely consistent.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
