Category:
Mid-range to Upper-mid-range Sport Touring Motorcycle
Segment Focus:
Versatile performance for touring and sport riding
Key Competitors Era:
Honda CB750 series, Suzuki GS series, Kawasaki GPz series, other 700-750cc Japanese motorcycles of the mid-1980s
Engine Layout:
In-line four-cylinder, DOHC
Drive Type:
Shaft Drive (XJ700NC) / Chain Drive (XJ700N, though often confused, XJ700N is typically shaft, XJ700S/SC are chain, product description is a bit ambiguous here but 'NC' usually implies Shaft)
Styling:
Classic naked sportbike aesthetic
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Repair and Service
Model Variants Covered:
All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions (implied comprehensive)
Estimated Page Count:
High (Typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, often 400-800+ pages)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, specifications, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, maintenance, adjustments, lubrication
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels and tires
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, servicing, bleeding, rotor and pad replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system, lighting, starting system, instrumentation, switches
Fuel System:
Carburetion (if applicable), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filters, troubleshooting fuel delivery issues
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, pipes, mufflers, heat shields, inspection and replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, lubrication points, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and carburetor overhauls
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, wear limits, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics)
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Type:
700cc In-line Four-Cylinder DOHC
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 67.0 x 48.8 mm (Typical for this engine family)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.7:1 (Typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 75-80 hp @ 9000 rpm (Estimated for the era)
Torque:
Approx. 45-50 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm (Estimated)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni constant velocity (CV) carburetors, likely 34mm (specifics vary by market and exact sub-model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as specified by Yamaha, typically 87 or higher)
System:
Electronic ignition (CDI)
System:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 per cylinder)
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (Consult manual for exact Yamaha recommendation)
Valve Check:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (Typical for DOHC engines of this era)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles
Engine Oil:
Yamaha recommends 20W-40 or 10W-40 API SE, SF or SG service classification motorcycle oil. Consult manual for specific viscosity by temperature.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil:
Yamaha recommends SAE 80 hypoid gear oil for shaft drive models.
Carburetor Issues:
Diaphragm deterioration, clogged jets, synchronization problems
Electrical Issues:
Aging wiring harnesses, regulator/rectifier failures, starter clutch wear
Cooling System:
Hose degradation, thermostat sticking, radiator leaks
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Need for regular lubrication and potential seal leaks (for NC models)
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha has a long history of producing high-performance, reliable motorcycles since its founding.
Xj Series:
The XJ series represented Yamaha's move into sophisticated, multi-cylinder sport touring bikes in the early 1980s, building on the success of the XS series.
Xj700 Positioning:
The XJ700 was designed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and reliability, fitting into the evolving motorcycle market of the mid-80s.
Production Years:
Mid-1980s (specifically around 1985-1986 for the XJ700 models)
Market Reception:
Generally well-received for its balanced performance, reliability, and shaft drive convenience (NC models).
Period Reviews:
Motorcycle magazines of the era often praised its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and overall value.
Safety Compliance:
Met all applicable safety regulations for its production period.
