Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, entry-level scooter, popular for recreational use, short-distance commuting, and as a fun, economical personal transport.
Competitors:
Competed with other small-displacement scooters from brands like Honda (e.g., Spree), Tomos, and Vespa during its production era.
Ease Of Use:
Automatic transmission and simple controls made it very accessible to new riders.
Economy:
Known for excellent fuel efficiency and low running costs.
Durability:
Yamaha's reputation for building reliable and durable small engines.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the 2-stroke engine, including cylinder, piston, crankshaft, bearings, seals, and lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series typically) adjustment, cleaning, overhaul, fuel lines, fuel tank, and petcock.
Ignition System:
Flywheel magneto ignition, spark plug selection and gap, ignition timing, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic centrifugal clutch, transmission gearing, drive chain inspection and adjustment, and lubrication.
Brakes:
Front and rear drum brake systems, brake shoe replacement, cable adjustment, and inspection.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, service, oil levels, and rear shock absorber inspection.
Electrical System:
Lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), horn, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance (if applicable), and fuse replacement.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing adjustment, and general chassis component checks.
Bodywork Cosmetics:
Fender removal and installation, seat removal, handlebar adjustment, and minor cosmetic repairs.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and guides for identifying and resolving common operational problems and failures.
Engine Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, part inspection, measuring tolerances, and reassembly.
Carburetor Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for cleaning, inspecting, and replacing jets, needles, floats, and seals in the carburetor.
Brake Adjustment Replacement:
Guidance on adjusting brake cables, replacing brake shoes, and inspecting brake drums.
Suspension Service:
Instructions for fork oil change, seal replacement, and proper suspension component reassembly.
Electrical Component Testing:
Methods for testing ignition coil, stator, and lighting circuits, often using a multimeter.
Lubrication Points:
Identification of all lubrication points and recommended lubricant types and quantities.
Depth Level:
Detailed, suitable for home mechanics to professional technicians. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine overhauls.
Precision Measurements:
Includes critical torque specifications, piston ring gap, bearing clearances, and other precision measurements.
Diagnostic Charts:
Extensive troubleshooting charts that correlate symptoms with likely causes and corrective actions.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Likely includes exploded views of components, detailed assembly diagrams, and electrical schematics.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder
Displacement:
49cc (2.99 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
37.0mm x 43.0mm (1.46 in. x 1.69 in.)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 6.0:1
Power Output:
Around 3.0 - 3.5 PS (2.2 - 2.6 kW) at approx. 6000-6500 rpm (exact figures may vary by region/tuning)
Torque:
Low, but sufficient for its intended purpose. Specific figures not commonly advertised for this class.
Carburetor Model:
Typically Mikuni VM12 or similar small-bore carburetor.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended)
Oil Mixing:
2-stroke oil mixed with fuel at a 50:1 ratio (check manual for precise recommendation) or via Autolube system if equipped.
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 - 4.0 liters (0.9 - 1.1 US gallons)
Length:
Approx. 1600-1700 mm (63-67 inches)
Width:
Approx. 650-700 mm (25.6-27.6 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1000-1050 mm (39.4-41.3 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1100-1150 mm (43.3-45.3 inches)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 60-65 kg (132-143 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified, but rider + cargo capacity is limited.
Front Tire Size:
Typically 2.50-10 or similar.
Rear Tire Size:
Typically 2.50-10 or similar.
Wheel Type:
Spoked wheels with tube-type tires.
Oil Change Frequency:
Refer to manual, but typically every 1000-2000 km or annually for gearbox oil. Fuel/oil mix requires no specific interval beyond refueling.
Spark Plug Check:
Every 1000-2000 km or annually. Replacement as needed.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Regular inspection and cleaning, typically every 1000-2000 km, replacement as needed.
Brake Adjustment:
As needed, or every 1000-2000 km. Check for lever free play.
Drive Chain Lubrication:
Every 500-1000 km, depending on conditions. Check tension as well.
Transmission Oil:
Yamaha recommends specific gear oil for the transmission. Likely SAE 80W or SAE 10W-30 API GL-4 for small transmissions. Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., Yamaha Hi-Performance Gear Oil).
Fork Oil:
Standard motorcycle fork oil, typically SAE 5W or 10W. Manual will specify weight and quantity per fork leg.
2 Stroke Oil:
High-quality 2-stroke motorcycle oil, suitable for air-cooled engines. Mix ratio of 50:1 is common.
Carburetor Clogging:
Common with older carbureted engines, especially if fuel sits for extended periods. Gumming of jets and passages.
Aging Rubber Components:
Fuel lines, intake boots, and brake cables can degrade over time, leading to leaks or performance issues.
Electrical Corrosion:
Connectors and wiring can corrode, leading to intermittent lights or ignition problems.
Worn Clutch Weights:
Centrifugal clutch weights can wear, affecting acceleration and engagement.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long history in motorcycles, musical instruments, and other motorized products, known for innovation and quality.
Qt50 Lineage:
The QT50 was part of Yamaha's push into the growing moped and scooter market in the late 1970s and early 1980s, offering simple, reliable transportation.
Production Years:
The QT50 model line was produced for several years, with the 1979 model being an early iteration.