Market Position:
The Yamaha Virago series was a popular line of V-twin cruiser motorcycles, known for their distinctive styling, comfortable riding position, and accessible performance. The XV535 was often positioned as an entry-level or mid-size cruiser, while the XV1100 offered more power and a larger presence.
Competitors Xv535:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Intruder 500/750
Competitors Xv1100:
Honda Shadow 1100, Kawasaki Vulcan 1500, Suzuki Intruder 1400
Virago Key Features:
Characteristic V-twin engine, shaft drive (low maintenance), comfortable cruiser ergonomics, classic styling cues, often featuring spoked wheels and chrome accents.
Covered Model Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Covered Models:
Yamaha XV535 Virago, Yamaha XV1100 Virago
Estimated Page Count:
600+
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, top-end rebuild, bottom-end rebuild, cooling system, lubrication system, valve timing, carburetor tuning, fuel injection (XV1100), ignition system, starting system
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission overhaul, clutch inspection and replacement, final drive (shaft drive) maintenance, gearbox troubleshooting, gear selection mechanisms
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection, suspension fork overhaul, rear shock absorber service, steering head bearing maintenance, wheel bearing replacement, brake system servicing (front and rear), brake pad replacement, hydraulic system bleeding
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), battery maintenance, ignition coils, starter motor, switches, indicators, instrument cluster diagnostics
Bodywork And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, fuel tank servicing, seat removal, fairing components (if applicable), fenders, exhaust system maintenance
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable), tire pressure checks, brake fluid replacement, coolant flush (if applicable), battery testing
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts for common problems, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues, fuel system problems, starting and charging issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly for all major systems
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type Xv535:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC
Displacement Xv535:
534 cc
Bore X Stroke Xv535:
76.0 mm x 58.0 mm
Compression Ratio Xv535:
9.0:1
Horsepower Xv535:
Approx. 40-45 HP (varies by market and year)
Torque Xv535:
Approx. 30-35 lb-ft (varies by market and year)
Engine Type Xv1100:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC
Displacement Xv1100:
1063 cc
Bore X Stroke Xv1100:
95.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio Xv1100:
8.5:1
Horsepower Xv1100:
Approx. 60-65 HP (varies by market and year)
Torque Xv1100:
Approx. 60-65 lb-ft (varies by market and year)
Fuel System Xv535:
Dual Carburetors (Mikuni VM34SS for early models, potentially Mikuni BSL32 for later models)
Fuel System Xv1100:
Dual Carburetors (Mikuni BS36)
Length Xv535:
Approx. 2235 mm (88.0 in)
Width Xv535:
Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in)
Height Xv535:
Approx. 1135 mm (44.7 in)
Wheelbase Xv535:
Approx. 1535 mm (60.4 in)
Dry Weight Xv535:
Approx. 170 kg (375 lbs)
Length Xv1100:
Approx. 2320 mm (91.3 in)
Width Xv1100:
Approx. 820 mm (32.3 in)
Height Xv1100:
Approx. 1160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase Xv1100:
Approx. 1585 mm (62.4 in)
Dry Weight Xv1100:
Approx. 206 kg (454 lbs)
Fuel Capacity Xv535:
Approx. 14 L (3.7 US gal)
Fuel Capacity Xv1100:
Approx. 17 L (4.5 US gal)
Safety Ratings General:
As a vintage motorcycle, official crash ratings in the modern sense are not applicable. Focus is on inherent design safety features.
Active Safety Features:
Disc brakes (front and rear), responsive suspension, balanced chassis design.
Passive Safety Features:
Sturdy frame construction, rider ergonomics designed for stability.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 4,000-6,000 km (2,500-3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000-8,000 km (3,700-5,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,200-7,500 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,200-7,500 miles)
Engine Oil Xv535:
Yamaha Genuine Yamalube 10W-40 or equivalent API SG, JASO MA
Engine Oil Xv1100:
Yamaha Genuine Yamalube 20W-50 or equivalent API SG, JASO MA
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Final Drive Oil:
Yamalube Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90 or equivalent
Common Issues Xv535:
Carburetor synchronization issues, occasional starter clutch wear, potential for fork seal leaks, ignition coil failure.
Common Issues Xv1100:
Rear shock absorber leaks, exhaust pipe rust/corrosion, clutch plate wear with high mileage, occasional electrical connector corrosion.
Yamaha Heritage:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, founded in 1955, has a long and illustrious history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various motorcycle segments.
Xv535 Evolution:
Introduced in 1987, the XV535 Virago was designed to capture the cruiser market with its compact size and classic styling. It received minor updates throughout its production run, primarily cosmetic changes and minor internal engine refinements.
Xv1100 Evolution:
Launched in 1986, the XV1100 Virago was Yamaha's larger displacement cruiser, offering more power and presence. It shared many design elements with the smaller XV700/750 Virago models and was a direct competitor to other established large-displacement cruisers. The manual covers this model through its significant production run until 2003, though production continued longer in some markets.
Production Period:
1987-2003 (for models covered by this manual)
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
