Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and mechanics of the Yamaha Virago XV750 (1981-1983).
Segment Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Suzuki Intruder series, Kawasaki Vulcan series.
Model Distinction:
Pioneering Japanese V-twin cruiser with a focus on styling and a comfortable riding position.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data and repair procedures for maintaining and restoring these classic motorcycles.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair.
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel pump, fuel tank, and fuel lines.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, spark plugs, wiring, and ignition timing.
Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, transmission internal components, final drive (shaft drive).
Brake System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines, hydraulic fluid.
Suspension System:
Front fork disassembly, service, and adjustment; rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter system.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifications, no liquid cooling system covered.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection and replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable, although shaft drive is standard), lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake component replacement.
Component Adjustment:
Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, ignition timing.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive workshop-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Focus:
Includes specific procedures for identifying and rectifying mechanical and electrical faults.
Specifications Detail:
Provides detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements for all components.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin
Displacement:
748 cc (45.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 69.2 mm (approx.)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio:
9.1:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 55-60 HP (at crankshaft, depending on year and tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 45-50 lb-ft (at crankshaft, depending on year and tuning)
Carburetors:
Dual Mikuni VM34SS constant velocity carburetors (typical)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane.
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 13.8 L (3.6 US gal), including reserve.
Length:
Approximately 2,255 mm (88.8 in)
Width:
Approximately 855 mm (33.7 in)
Height:
Approximately 1,150 mm (45.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 216 kg (476 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 235 kg (518 lbs)
Front Tire Size:
3.00-18-4PR (typical, Tubed)
Rear Tire Size:
130/90-16-67P (typical, Tubeless)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1,520 mm (59.8 in)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings).
Braking System:
Front: Single Disc Brake; Rear: Drum Brake (early models may have rear disc on some variants, but typically drum for 81-83 XV750).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or annually.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 12,000 km (7,200 miles) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Specification:
Yamalube 4-stroke motorcycle oil, SAE 20W-40 API SE or SC (refer to manual for precise API classification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.4 L (2.5 US qt) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Yamaha Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5.
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approximately 120 ml (4.1 US fl oz).
Carburetor Issues:
Diaphragm wear, vacuum leaks, clogged jets due to age and fuel degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded connectors, failing regulator/rectifier, aging wiring harness.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular fuel stabilizer use is recommended for older fuel tanks and carburetors.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Periodic inspection and lubrication of the shaft drive U-joints and splines.
Brand History:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, is renowned for its broad range of motorcycles, from performance sportbikes to cruisers.
Virago Line Introduction:
The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the lucrative cruiser market, aiming to compete with American brands. The XV750 was one of the first models.
Xv750 Generation:
The 1981-1983 XV750 represents the first generation of the Virago 750, establishing the V-twin, shaft-drive, teardrop tank aesthetic.
Production Period:
1981-1983 for the specific models covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
