Market Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range cruiser motorcycle, appealing to new riders and those seeking a classic styling with manageable performance.
Key Selling Points:
V-twin engine character, comfortable riding posture, iconic Virago styling, relatively simple mechanicals.
Direct Competitors:
Honda Shadow 600, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Intruder VS600/VS700.
Competitive Advantage:
Yamaha's reliability, distinctive V-twin sound, and often more accessible pricing in the used market.
Feature 1:
V-twin engine character and sound.
Feature 2:
Classic cruiser styling with custom elements.
Feature 3:
Comfortable riding ergonomics for moderate distances.
Feature 4:
Accessible maintenance and repair due to its mechanical simplicity.
Coverage Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Coverage Region Specifics:
Covers models sold globally, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Estimated Page Count:
300-500
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, and component identification (carburetor, ignition, cooling, exhaust).
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, clutch service, shifting mechanism, internal components, fluid maintenance.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (VM/CV type) overhaul, jetting, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines, and filters.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system (CDI, spark plugs), starter motor, battery.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic/disc and drum), caliper overhaul, master cylinder, brake fluid, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber adjustments and replacement, swingarm and linkage maintenance.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifics, cylinder head cooling fins maintenance.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing replacement, mounting points.
Bodywork Trim:
Fender removal, fuel tank mounting, seat removal, side cover access, handlebar and control lever adjustment.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, general inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Piston and cylinder inspection, valve clearance adjustment, camshaft removal/installation, crankshaft service (if applicable).
Carburetor Rebuild:
Detailed steps for disassembling, cleaning, replacing jets and diaphragms, and reassembly of the dual carburetors.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of charging system components, ignition timing, starter system, and troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Suspension Overhaul:
Front fork seal replacement, fork oil viscosity and level checks, rear shock absorber servicing.
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper seal replacement, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleed.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to major overhauls and component-level repairs.
Diagnostic Capability:
Enables identification and resolution of most common and complex mechanical and electrical issues.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Clearances Tolerances:
Specifications for valve clearances, piston-to-cylinder wall, and other critical component clearances.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, V-twin, air-cooled
Displacement:
535 cc (32.6 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 58.0 mm (3.0 in x 2.3 in)
Valve Configuration:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 40-45 hp @ 7500 rpm (varies by region/year)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 40-45 Nm (29-33 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (varies by region/year)
Fuel Delivery:
Dual Mikuni 34 mm CV (Constant Velocity) carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
Fuel Tank Capacity:
9.0 L (2.4 US gal)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 4,000-6,000 km (2,500-3,700 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Change Interval:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Check Interval:
Every 8,000-10,000 km (5,000-6,200 miles).
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Every 16,000-20,000 km (10,000-12,500 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamaha Recommended: Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 L (2.2 US qt) without filter change, 2.3 L (2.4 US qt) with filter change.
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Recommended: SAE 10W fork oil (or equivalent).
Fork Oil Quantity:
Approx. 300 ml (10.1 US fl oz) per fork leg.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Carburetor synchronization and tuning can be finicky, requiring regular adjustment for smooth running.
Common Issue 2:
Starter motor solenoid failure on some earlier models.
Common Issue 3:
Fork seal leaks, common on older, high-mileage bikes.
Common Issue 4:
Wear on shaft drive components (universal joint, bevel gears) requires periodic inspection.
Common Issue 5:
Ignition system components (CDI, coil) can degrade over time.