wheel YAMAHA XJ6-N 2012 Owners Manual

Page 6 of 104

TABLE OF CONTENTSSAFETY INFORMATION ..................1-1
DESCRIPTION ..................................2-1
Left view ..........................................2-1
Right view ........................................2-2
Controls and instruments.................2-3
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL
FUNCTIONS .......................................3-1
Immobilizer system .........................3-1
Main switch/steering lock ................3-2
Indicator lights and warning lights ............................................3-4
Multi-function meter unit .................3-8
Handlebar switches ......................3-11
Clutch lever ...................................3-13
Shift pedal .....................................3-13
Brake lever ...................................3-13
Brake pedal ..................................3-14
ABS (for ABS models) ..................3-14
Fuel tank cap ................................3-15
Fuel ...............................................3-16
Fuel tank breather hose and
overflow hose ............................3-17
Catalytic converter ........................3-17
Seat ..............................................3-18
Helmet holder ...............................3-18
Storage compartment ...................3-19
Handlebar position ........................3-20
Adjusting the shock absorber assembly ...................................3-20 Sidestand ..................................... 3-21
Ignition circuit cut-off system ........ 3-22
FOR YOUR SAFETY –
PRE-OPERATION CHECKS ............. 4-1
OPERATION AND IMPORTANT
RIDING POINTS ................................. 5-1
Starting the engine ......................... 5-1
Shifting ........................................... 5-2
Tips for reducing fuel consumption ............................... 5-3
Engine break-in .............................. 5-3
Parking ........................................... 5-4
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND
ADJUSTMENT ................................... 6-1
Owner’s tool kit ............................... 6-2
Periodic maintenance chart for the emission control system ....... 6-3
General maintenance and lubrication chart .......................... 6-4
Removing and installing
the cowling and panels ............... 6-8
Checking the spark plugs ............... 6-9
Engine oil and oil filter cartridge ... 6-10
Coolant ......................................... 6-13
Replacing the air filter element ..... 6-17
Adjusting the engine idling speed ........................................ 6-18 Checking the throttle grip free
play ........................................... 6-19
Valve clearance ........................... 6-19
Tires ............................................. 6-19
Cast wheels ................................. 6-22
Adjusting the clutch lever free play ........................................... 6-22
Checking the brake lever free
play ........................................... 6-23
Brake light switches (for ABS models) ...................... 6-24
Brake light switches (for non-ABS models) ............... 6-24
Checking the front and
rear brake pads ........................ 6-24
Checking the brake fluid level ...... 6-25
Changing the brake fluid .............. 6-26
Drive chain slack .......................... 6-27
Cleaning and lubricating the drive chain .......................... 6-28
Checking and lubricating the cables ................................. 6-29
Checking and lubricating
the throttle grip and cable ......... 6-29
Checking and lubricating the brake and shift pedals ........ 6-29
Checking and lubricating the brake and clutch levers ...... 6-30
Checking and lubricating
the sidestand ............................ 6-31U20SE3E0.book Page 1 Monday, April 23, 2012 10:47 AM

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Lubricating the swingarm pivots ......................................... 6-31
Checking the front fork ................. 6-31
Checking the steering ................... 6-32
Checking the wheel bearings ....... 6-32
Battery .......................................... 6-33
Replacing the fuses ...................... 6-34
Replacing the headlight bulb ........ 6-36
Replacing the tail/brake light bulb ........................................... 6-38
Replacing a turn signal light
bulb ........................................... 6-39
Replacing the license plate light bulb ........................................... 6-40
Replacing the auxiliary light bulb ........................................... 6-40
Supporting the motorcycle ............ 6-41
Front wheel
(for non-ABS models) ............... 6-42
Rear wheel
(for non-ABS models) ............... 6-43
Troubleshooting ............................ 6-45
Troubleshooting charts ................. 6-46
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND
STORAGE .......................................... 7-1
Matte color caution ......................... 7-1
Care ................................................ 7-1
Storage ...........................................7-3 SPECIFICATIONS
............................ 8-1
CONSUMER INFORMATION ............ 9-1
Identification numbers .................... 9-1
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Page 9 of 104

SAFETY INFORMATION
1-2
1

Many accidents involve inexperi-
enced operators. In fact, many op-
erators who have been involved in
accidents do not even have a cur-
rent motorcycle license. Make sure that you are qualified and that you only lend your mo-
torcycle to other qualified opera-
tors.
Know your skills and limits. Staying within your limits may
help you to avoid an accident.
We recommend that you prac- tice riding your motorcycle
where there is no traffic until you
have become thoroughly famil-
iar with the motorcycle and all of
its controls.

Many accidents have been caused
by error of the motorcycle opera-
tor. A typical error made by the op-
erator is veering wide on a turn
due to excessive speed or under-
cornering (insufficient lean angle
for the speed). Always obey the speed limit and never travel faster than warrant-
ed by road and traffic conditions. Always signal before turning or
changing lanes. Make sure that
other motorists can see you.

The posture of the operator and
passenger is important for proper
control. The operator should keep both hands on the handlebar and
both feet on the operator foot-
rests during operation to main-
tain control of the motorcycle.
The passenger should always hold onto the operator, the seat
strap or grab bar, if equipped,
with both hands and keep both
feet on the passenger footrests.
Never carry a passenger unless
he or she can firmly place both
feet on the passenger footrests.

Never ride under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs.

This motorcycle is designed for on-
road use only. It is not suitable for
off-road use. Protective Apparel
The majority of fatalities from motorcy-
cle accidents are the result of head in-
juries. The use of a safety helmet is the
single most critical factor in the preven-
tion or reduction of head injuries.

Always wear an approved helmet.

Wear a face shield or goggles.
Wind in your unprotected eyes
could contribute to an impairment
of vision that could delay seeing a
hazard.

The use of a jacket, heavy boots,
trousers, gloves, etc., is effective in
preventing or reducing abrasions
or lacerations.

Never wear loose-fitting clothes,
otherwise they could catch on the
control levers, footrests, or wheels
and cause injury or an accident.

Always wear protective clothing
that covers your legs, ankles, and
feet. The engine or exhaust sys-
tem become very hot during or af-
ter operation and can cause burns.

A passenger should also observe
the above precautions.
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Page 12 of 104

SAFETY INFORMATION
1-5
1tor and may limit control ability,
therefore, such accessories are
not recommended.

Use caution when adding electri-
cal accessories. If electrical acces-
sories exceed the capacity of the
motorcycle’s electrical system, an
electric failure could result, which
could cause a dangerous loss of
lights or engine power.
Aftermarket Tires and Rims
The tires and rims that came with your
motorcycle were designed to match the
performance capabilities and to provide
the best combination of handling, brak-
ing, and comfort. Other tires, rims, siz-
es, and combinations may not be
appropriate. Refer to page 6-19 for tire
specifications and more information on
replacing your tires.
Transporting the Motorcycle
Be sure to observe following instruc-
tions before transporting the motorcy-
cle in another vehicle.

Remove all loose items from the
motorcycle.

Check that the fuel cock (if
equipped) is in the “OFF” position
and that there are no fuel leaks.

Point the front wheel straight
ahead on the trailer or in the truck
bed, and choke it in a rail to pre-
vent movement.

Shift the transmission in gear (for
models with a manual transmis-
sion).

Secure the motorcycle with tie-
downs or suitable straps that are
attached to solid parts of the mo-
torcycle, such as the frame or up-
per front fork triple clamp (and not,
for example, to rubber-mounted
handlebars or turn signals, or parts
that could break). Choose the lo-
cation for the straps carefully so
the straps will not rub against
painted surfaces during transport.

The suspension should be com-
pressed somewhat by the tie-
downs, if possible, so that the mo-
torcycle will not bounce excessive-
ly during transport.
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Page 22 of 104

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-7
3
EAU11534
Engine trouble warning light “ ”
This warning light comes on or flashes
if a problem is detected in the electrical
circuit monitoring the engine. If this oc-
curs, have a Yamaha dealer check the
self-diagnosis system. (See page 3-10
for an explanation of the self-diagnosis
device.)
The electrical circuit of the warning light
can be checked by turning the key to
“ON”. The warning light should come
on for a few seconds, and then go off.
If the warning light does not come on
initially when the key is turned to “ON”,
or if the warning light remains on, have
a Yamaha dealer check the electrical
circuit.
EAU51780
ABS warning light “ ” (for ABS
models)
In normal operation, the ABS warning
light comes on when the key is turned
to “ON”, and goes off after traveling at a
speed of 10 km/h (6 mi/h) or higher.
If the ABS warning light:●
does not come on when the key is
turned to “ON”

comes on or flashes while riding

does not go off after traveling at a
speed of 10 km/h (6 mi/h) or higher
The ABS may not work correctly. If any
of the above occurs, have a Yamaha
dealer check the system as soon as
possible. (See page 3-14 for an expla-
nation of the ABS.)WARNING
EWA16040
If the ABS warning light does not go
off after traveling at a speed of 10
km/h (6 mi/h) or higher, or if the
warning light comes on or flashes
while riding, the brake system re-
verts to conventional braking. If ei-
ther of the above occurs, or if the
warning light does not come on at
all, use extra caution to avoid possi-
ble wheel lock during emergency
braking. Have a Yamaha dealer
check the brake system and electri-
cal circuits as soon as possible.TIPIf the start switch is pushed while the
engine is running, the ABS warning
light will come on, but this is not a mal-
function.
EAU38624
Immobilizer system indicator light
The electrical circuit of the indicator
light can be checked by turning the key
to “ON”. The indicator light should
come on for a few seconds, and then
go off.
If the indicator light does not come on
initially when the key is turned to “ON”,
or if the indicator light remains on, have
a Yamaha dealer check the electrical
circuit.
When the key is turned to “OFF” and 30
seconds have passed, the indicator
light will start flashing indicating the im-
mobilizer system is enabled. After 24
hours have passed, the indicator light
will stop flashing, however the immobi-
lizer system is still enabled.
The self-diagnosis device also detects
problems in the immobilizer system cir-
cuits. (See page 3-10 for an explana-
tion of the self-diagnosis device.)
ABS
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Page 29 of 104

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-14
3
EAU12941
Brake pedal The brake pedal is on the right side of
the motorcycle. To apply the rear
brake, press down on the brake pedal.
EAU51800
ABS (for ABS models) The Yamaha ABS (Anti-lock Brake
System) features a dual electronic con-
trol system, which acts on the front and
rear brakes independently.
Operate the brakes with ABS as you
would conventional brakes. If the ABS
is activated, a pulsating sensation may
be felt at the brake lever or brake pedal.
In this situation, continue to apply the
brakes and let the ABS work; do not
“pump” the brakes as this will reduce
braking effectiveness.
WARNING
EWA16050
Always keep a sufficient distance
from the vehicle ahead to match the
riding speed even with ABS.●
The ABS performs best with
long braking distances.

On certain surfaces, such as
rough or gravel roads, the brak-
ing distance may be longer with
the ABS than without.
The ABS is monitored by an ECU,
which will revert the system to conven-
tional braking if a malfunction occurs.
TIP●
The ABS performs a self-diagno-
sis test each time the vehicle first
starts off after the key is turned to
“ON” and the vehicle has traveled
at a speed of 10 km/h (6 mi/h) or
higher. During this test, a “clicking”
noise can be heard from under the
seat, and if the brake lever or
brake pedal is even slightly ap-
plied, a vibration can be felt at the
lever and pedal, but these do not
indicate a malfunction.

This ABS has a test mode which
allows the owner to experience the
pulsation at the brake lever or
brake pedal when the ABS is oper-
ating. However, special tools are
required, so please consult your
Yamaha dealer when performing this test.
NOTICE
ECA16120
Keep any type of magnets (including
magnetic pick-up tools, magnetic
screwdrivers, etc.) away from the
front and rear wheel hubs, otherwise
the magnetic rotors equipped in the
1. Brake pedal
1
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Page 30 of 104

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-15
3wheel hubs may be damaged, result-
ing in improper performance of the
ABS system.
EAU13074
Fuel tank cap To open the fuel tank cap
Open the fuel tank cap lock cover, in-
sert the key into the lock, and then turn
it 1/4 turn clockwise. The lock will be re-
leased and the fuel tank cap can be
opened.
To close the fuel tank cap
1. Push the fuel tank cap into position with the key inserted in the lock.
2. Turn the key counterclockwise to the original position, remove it, and
then close the lock cover.
TIPThe fuel tank cap cannot be closed un-
less the key is in the lock. In addition,
the key cannot be removed if the cap is
not properly closed and locked.
WARNING
EWA11091
Make sure that the fuel tank cap is
properly closed after filling fuel.
Leaking fuel is a fire hazard.
1. Rear wheel hub
2. Front wheel hub1
2
1. Fuel tank cap lock cover
2. Unlock.
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Page 40 of 104

FOR YOUR SAFETY – PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
4-2
4
Rear brake Check operation.
If soft or spongy, have Yamaha dealer bleed hydraulic system.
Check brake pads for wear.
Replace if necessary.
Check fluid level in reservoir.
If necessary, add specified brake fluid to specified level.
Check hydraulic system for leakage. 6-24, 6-25
Clutch Check operation.
Lubricate cable if necessary.
Check lever free play.
Adjust if necessary.
6-22
Throttle grip Make sure that operation is smooth.
Check throttle grip free play.
If necessary, have Yamaha dealer adjust throttle grip free play and lubricate cable
and grip housing. 6-19, 6-29
Control cables Make sure that operation is smooth.
Lubricate if necessary. 6-29
Drive chain Check chain slack.
Adjust if necessary.
Check chain condition.
Lubricate if necessary.
6-27, 6-28
Wheels and tires Check for damage.
Check tire condition and tread depth.
Check air pressure.
Correct if necessary.
6-19, 6-22
Brake and shift pedals Make sure that operation is smooth.
Lubricate pedal pivoting points if necessary. 6-29
Brake and clutch levers Make sure that operation is smooth.
Lubricate lever pivoting points if necessary.
6-30
Sidestand Make sure that operation is smooth.
Lubricate pivot if necessary.
6-31
ITEM CHECKS PAGE
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Page 49 of 104

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-4
6
EAU1770E
General maintenance and lubrication chart NO. ITEM CHECK OR MAINTENANCE JOB ODOMETER READING
ANNUAL
CHECK
1000 km
(600 mi) 10000 km
(6000 mi) 20000 km
(12000 mi) 30000 km
(18000 mi) 40000 km
(24000 mi)
1 Air filter element Replace. √
2Clutch Check operation.
Adjust.
√√√√√
3 *Front brake Check operation, fluid level and
vehicle for fluid leakage. √√√√√√
Replace brake pads. Whenever worn to the limit
4 *Rear brake Check operation, fluid level and
vehicle for fluid leakage. √√√√√√
Replace brake pads. Whenever worn to the limit
5 *Brake hoses Check for cracks or damage.
Check for correct routing and
clamping. √√√√√
Replace. Every 4 years
6 *Wheels Check runout and for damage. √√√√
7 *Tires Check tread depth and for dam-
age.
Replace if necessary.
Check air pressure.
Correct if necessary. √√√√√
8 *Wheel bearings Check bearing for looseness or
damage. √√√√
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Page 65 of 104

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-20
6
weight of rider, passenger, car-
go, and accessories approved
for this model.
WARNING
EWA10511
Never overload your vehicle. Opera-
tion of an overloaded vehicle could
cause an accident.Tire inspection
The tires must be checked before each
ride. If the center tread depth reaches
the specified limit, if the tire has a nail or
glass fragments in it, or if the sidewall is
cracked, have a Yamaha dealer re-
place the tire immediately.
TIPThe tire tread depth limits may differ
from country to country. Always comply
with the local regulations.
WARNING
EWA10471

Have a Yamaha dealer replace
excessively worn tires. Besides
being illegal, operating the vehi-
cle with excessively worn tires
decreases riding stability and
can lead to loss of control.

The replacement of all wheel
and brake-related parts, includ-
ing the tires, should be left to a
Yamaha dealer, who has the necessary professional knowl-
edge and experience to do so.

Ride at moderate speeds after
changing a tire since the tire
surface must first be “broken
in” for it to develop its optimal
characteristics.
Tire air pressure (measured on cold
tires): 0–90 kg (0–198 lb):Front:
225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm², 33 psi)
Rear: 250 kPa (2.50 kgf/cm², 36 psi)
XJ6N 90–195 kg (198–430 lb)
XJ6NA 90–190 kg (198–419 lb): Front:
250 kPa (2.50 kgf/cm², 36 psi)
Rear: 290 kPa (2.90 kgf/cm², 42 psi)
High-speed riding: Front: 225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm², 33 psi)
Rear: 250 kPa (2.50 kgf/cm², 36 psi)
Maximum load*:
XJ6N 195 kg (430 lb)
XJ6NA 190 kg (419 lb)
* Total weight of rider, passenger, car-
go and accessories
1. Tire sidewall
2. Tire tread depth
Minimum tire tread depth (front and
rear): 1.6 mm (0.06 in)
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