Market Segment:
Dual-sport/Adventure touring motorcycle, targeting riders seeking versatility for on-road and off-road use.
Competitors:
Primarily competed with other European and Japanese dual-sport motorcycles of the late 1980s, such as certain BMW, Yamaha, Honda, and Suzuki models in the 500cc to 650cc class.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust build, capable off-road suspension, comfortable for longer distances, European styling.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair procedures for the 498cc single-cylinder engine.
Valve Gear:
Valve timing, adjustment, inspection, and replacement of valve components.
Fuel Feed:
Carburetor identification, adjustment, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel lines, and tank maintenance.
Lubrication:
Lubrication system components, oil filter, oil change procedures, oil pump, and oil circulation.
Cooling:
Air-cooling system components, inspection, and maintenance.
Ignition:
Ignition system components (CDI, coils, spark plugs), timing, testing, and troubleshooting.
Starter:
Electric starter motor, starter solenoid, battery, and starting system troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, shifting mechanism, and clutch service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Frame:
Frame inspection, reinforcement points, and related components.
Suspension:
Front forks (telescopic) and rear shock absorber service, including oil changes, seal replacement, and damping adjustments.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing service, spoke adjustment, tire selection, mounting, and balancing.
Electrical Equipment:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, battery charging system, fuses, and electrical component testing.
Performance:
Basic performance tuning and setup recommendations.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common problems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Adjustment:
Carburetor, ignition timing, clutch, and suspension adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement:
498cc (approximate)
Bore X Stroke:
Typically around 92mm x 75.4mm (specific to T4-500 RE, requires manual verification)
Compression Ratio:
Likely in the range of 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (specific to T4-500 RE, requires manual verification)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder (typical for era)
Horsepower:
Estimated 30-35 HP at ~6000 RPM (requires manual verification)
Torque:
Estimated 35-40 Nm at ~4500 RPM (requires manual verification)
Carburetor:
Single Mikuni VM34SS or similar (requires manual verification)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually. Specific interval in manual.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Typically every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,200 miles). Specific interval in manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil, API SF or SG rated (refer to manual for precise specification).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
Fork Oil Type:
Suspension fork oil with specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W or 15W), quantity specified in manual.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, valve guide seals, fork seals, brake pad wear, and electrical connections due to vibration and age.
Reliability Points:
As with any vintage motorcycle, proper maintenance and attention to detail are key. Carburetor cleaning and ignition system checks are important.