Segment:
Middleweight Sportbike / Naked Sportbike (de-fared version)
Competitors:
Kawasaki GPZ500S/EX500, Honda CB500/CBR500, Yamaha XJ600S Diversion, Ducati Monster (early models)
Design Philosophy:
Suzuki's attempt to offer a sporty yet accessible middleweight motorcycle, combining a capable engine with a manageable chassis. Known for its distinctive styling and smooth power delivery.
Powertrain:
Engine (disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting), Transmission (gearbox, clutch operation, adjustments), Drivetrain (final drive, chain maintenance)
Chassis:
Suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber, adjustments), Brakes (hydraulic system, pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinders), Steering (handlebar assembly, steering head bearings)
Electrical:
Ignition system, Charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), Lighting system, Instrumentation, Wiring diagrams, Starter system, Battery maintenance
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, Seat assembly, Fuel tank maintenance, Minor body panel repairs
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, coolant checks and changes
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds (piston, rings, valve adjustments), carburetor synchronization and rebuilding, fork seal replacement, brake bleeding, bearing replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault finding guides, electrical system troubleshooting charts
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and electrical system repairs. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Type:
Inline-Four Cylinder, DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
599cc (599 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
72.0 mm x 73.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1 (Typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 85-90 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 50-53 lb-ft (at crankshaft)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni CV carburetors (e.g., VM29SS)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-Cooled
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as specified in manual
Chain Adjustment Lubrication:
Every 600 miles (1,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 ethylene glycol and distilled water mix)
Common Wear Items:
Stator/regulator-rectifier failure (common on many bikes of this era), carburetors can become gummed up if not used regularly, front fork seals can leak.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent faults. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Suzuki Legacy:
Suzuki has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles, known for their engineering prowess in inline-four engines.
Rf Series:
The RF series (including RF400, RF600R, and RF900R) represented Suzuki's push into the sport-touring and sportbike market with unique styling and powerful engines for their class.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
