Positioning:
A premium, high-performance sportbike of its era, often referred to as a 'homologation special' for racing.
Competitors:
Suzuki RG500 Gamma, Honda NS400R, Kawasaki KR-1S.
Engine Configuration:
Liquid-cooled, 499cc, 2-stroke, V4 engine with reed valve induction.
Power Delivery:
Known for its potent mid-range power and aggressive top-end delivery.
Chassis Design:
Aluminium alloy twin-spar frame for rigidity.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes and a rear disc brake.
Suspension:
TCI (Tone-Controlled Ignition) front forks and a Monoshock rear suspension.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, assembly, and tuning of the 2-stroke V4 engine.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, charging system, CDI, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul, tuning, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow diagrams.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch operation and adjustment.
Suspension Front:
Front fork (TCI-equipped) disassembly, servicing, oil specifications, damping adjustments.
Suspension Rear:
Monoshock rear suspension servicing, linkage maintenance, shock absorber adjustments.
Brakes Front:
Disc brake system, caliper overhaul, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Brakes Rear:
Disc brake system, caliper overhaul, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Handlebar assembly, steering head bearing maintenance and adjustment.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection, pressure recommendations.
Body And Frame:
Fairing removal, bodywork components, frame inspection.
Electrical System Component:
Lighting, instrumentation, switches, horn, battery maintenance.
Emission Control:
Information on emission control systems (if applicable to specific market variants).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug servicing, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and common problem identification for engine, electrical, and chassis.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, carburetor synchronization.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Step-by-step electrical system troubleshooting using wiring diagrams.
Specifications And Torque:
Detailed torque values for fasteners, engine clearances, and fluid capacities.
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, diagrams, and wiring schematics.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, V4, liquid-cooled
Displacement:
499 cc (30.45 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 54.5 mm (2.13 in x 2.15 in)
Compression Ratio:
7.2:1 (approximate)
Valve Mechanism:
Reed valve induction
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 87 hp @ 9,500 rpm (European spec, may vary by market)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) @ 8,000 rpm (approximate)
Top Speed:
Approx. 220 km/h (137 mph)
Carburetors:
4 x Mikuni VM26SS or similar, butterfly-valve type with T.C.I. control.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium unleaded recommended), 2-stroke oil pre-mix or Autolube system.
Features:
N/A (This is a 1980s sportbike, no modern infotainment systems).
Features:
N/A (This is a 1980s sportbike, no modern driver assistance systems).
Features:
N/A (This is a 1980s sportbike, no modern connectivity features).
Ignition System:
Yamaha Computer Controlled Ignition (TCI) with electronic advance and retard, often with power valve control.
Oil Change Engine:
Refer to manual; typically every 3,000-5,000 km or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Inspection every 2,000-3,000 km, replacement as needed (e.g., NGK B8ES, BR8ES, or equivalent).
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 500-1,000 km, or as per manual's recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
High-quality 2-stroke motorcycle oil (e.g., Yamalube 2R or equivalent).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, diluted with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific viscosity fork oil as per manual (e.g., SAE 10W).
Engine Carbon Buildup:
Common in 2-stroke engines, requiring periodic decarbonization of exhaust ports and power valves.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Crucial for smooth running due to four carbs; requires periodic checks.
Electrical Connections:
Age-related degradation of wiring and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Power Valve Sticking:
Carbon buildup can cause power valves to stick, affecting performance.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha has a strong heritage in two-stroke performance and racing, particularly with its 'R' series sportbikes.
Development Context:
Developed to compete with other manufacturers' V4 500cc 2-stroke sportbikes, leveraging Yamaha's Grand Prix racing technology.
Design Philosophy:
Concentrated on delivering immense power and sharp handling, mirroring its racing counterparts.
Production Period:
1984-1985. Considered a relatively short production run but highly impactful.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
