tires YAMAHA XVS950 2009 Owners Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY 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 and warning lights .............3-3
Multi-function meter unit ..................3-4
Handlebar switches .........................3-7
Clutch lever ......................................3-9
Shift pedal ........................................3-9
Brake lever ....................................3-10
Brake pedal ...................................3-10
Fuel tank cap .................................3-10
Fuel ................................................3-11
Catalytic converter .........................3-12
Rider seat ......................................3-13
Helmet holder ................................3-14
Adjusting the shock absorber
assembly ....................................3-14
Sidestand .......................................3-16
Ignition circuit cut-off system .........3-16
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 ................................ 6-1
Periodic maintenance chart for the
emission control system .............. 6-2
General maintenance and
lubrication chart ........................... 6-3
Removing and installing the
panel ............................................ 6-6
Checking the spark plugs ................ 6-6
Engine oil and oil filter cartridge ...... 6-7
Replacing the air filter element ...... 6-11
Checking the engine idling
speed ......................................... 6-11
Checking the throttle cable free
play ............................................ 6-12
Valve clearance ............................. 6-12
Tires .............................................. 6-12
Cast wheels ................................... 6-14
Adjusting the clutch lever free
play ............................................ 6-14Adjusting the brake lever free
play ............................................ 6-15
Adjusting the rear brake light
switch ......................................... 6-16
Checking the front and rear brake
pads ........................................... 6-16
Checking the brake fluid level ....... 6-17
Changing the brake fluid ............... 6-18
Drive belt slack .............................. 6-18
Checking and lubricating the
cables ........................................ 6-20
Checking and lubricating the
throttle grip and cable ................ 6-20
Checking and lubricating the
brake and shift pedals ............... 6-21
Checking and lubricating the
brake and clutch levers .............. 6-21
Checking and lubricating the
sidestand ................................... 6-22
Lubricating the rear suspension .... 6-22
Checking the front fork .................. 6-23
Checking the steering ................... 6-23
Checking the wheel bearings ........ 6-24
Battery ........................................... 6-24
Replacing the fuses ...................... 6-26
Replacing the headlight bulb ........ 6-27
Replacing the tail/brake light
bulb ............................................ 6-28
Replacing a turn signal light
bulb ............................................ 6-29

SAFETY INFORMATION
1-3
1
engine exhaust can be drawn into
a building through openings such
as windows and doors.
Loading
Adding accessories or cargo to your
motorcycle can adversely affect stabili-
ty and handling if the weight distribution
of the motorcycle is changed. To avoid
the possibility of an accident, use ex-
treme caution when adding cargo or
accessories to your motorcycle. Use
extra care when riding a motorcycle
that has added cargo or accessories.
Here, along with the information about
accessories below, are some general
guidelines to follow if loading cargo to
your motorcycle:
The total weight of the operator, pas-
senger, accessories and cargo must
not exceed the maximum load limit.
Operation of an overloaded vehicle
could cause an accident.
When loading within this weight limit,
keep the following in mind:


Cargo and accessory weight
should be kept as low and close to
the motorcycle as possible. Se-
curely pack your heaviest items as
close to the center of the vehicle as
possible and make sure to distrib-
ute the weight as evenly as possi-
ble on both sides of the motorcycle
to minimize imbalance or instabili-
ty.

Shifting weights can create a sud-
den imbalance. Make sure that ac-
cessories and cargo are securely
attached to the motorcycle before
riding. Check accessory mounts
and cargo restraints frequently.

Properly adjust the suspension
for your load (suspension-ad-
justable models only), and
check the condition and pres-
sure of your tires.

Never attach any large or heavy
items to the handlebar, front
fork, or front fender. These
items, including such cargo as
sleeping bags, duffel bags, or
tents, can create unstable han-
dling or a slow steering re-sponse.

This vehicle is not designed to
pull a trailer or to be attached to
a sidecar.
Genuine Yamaha Accessories
Choosing accessories for your vehicle
is an important decision. Genuine
Yamaha accessories, which are avail-
able only from a Yamaha dealer, have
been designed, tested, and approved
by Yamaha for use on your vehicle.
Many companies with no connection to
Yamaha manufacture parts and acces-
sories or offer other modifications for
Yamaha vehicles. Yamaha is not in a
position to test the products that these
aftermarket companies produce.
Therefore, Yamaha can neither en-
dorse nor recommend the use of ac-
cessories not sold by Yamaha or
modifications not specifically recom-
mended by Yamaha, even if sold and
installed by a Yamaha dealer.
Aftermarket Parts, Accessories,
and Modifications
While you may find aftermarket prod-

Maximum load:
210 kg (463 lb)

SAFETY INFORMATION
1-4
1
ucts similar in design and quality to
genuine Yamaha accessories, recog-
nize that some aftermarket accessories
or modifications are not suitable be-
cause of potential safety hazards to you
or others. Installing aftermarket prod-
ucts or having other modifications per-
formed to your vehicle that change any
of the vehicle’s design or operation
characteristics can put you and others
at greater risk of serious injury or death.
You are responsible for injuries related
to changes in the vehicle.
Keep the following guidelines in mind,
as well as those provided under “Load-
ing” when mounting accessories.

Never install accessories or carry
cargo that would impair the perfor-
mance of your motorcycle. Care-
fully inspect the accessory before
using it to make sure that it does
not in any way reduce ground
clearance or cornering clearance,
limit suspension travel, steering
travel or control operation, or ob-
scure lights or reflectors.

Accessories fitted to the handle-
bar or the front fork area cancreate instability due to improper
weight distribution or aerody-
namic changes. If accessories
are added to the handlebar or
front fork area, they must be as
lightweight as possible and
should be kept to a minimum.

Bulky or large accessories may
seriously affect the stability of
the motorcycle due to aerody-
namic effects. Wind may at-
tempt to lift the motorcycle, or
the motorcycle may become un-
stable in cross winds. These ac-
cessories may also cause
instability when passing or being
passed by large vehicles.

Certain accessories can dis-
place the operator from his or
her normal riding position. This
improper position limits the free-
dom of movement of the opera-
tor 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 themotorcycle’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 6-12 for tire
specifications and more information on
replacing your tires.

FOR YOUR SAFETY – PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
4-2
2
3
45
6
7
8
9

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 recommended brake fluid to specified level.

Check hydraulic system for leakage.6-16, 6-17
Clutch

Check operation.

Lubricate cable if necessary.

Check lever free play.

Adjust if necessary.6-14
Throttle grip

Make sure that operation is smooth.

Check cable free play.

If necessary, have Yamaha dealer adjust cable free play and lubricate cable
and grip housing.6-12, 6-20
Control cables

Make sure that operation is smooth.

Lubricate if necessary.6-20
Wheels and tires

Check for damage.

Check tire condition and tread depth.

Check air pressure.

Correct if necessary.6-12, 6-14
Brake and shift pedals

Make sure that operation is smooth.

Lubricate pedal pivoting points if necessary.6-21
Brake and clutch levers

Make sure that operation is smooth.

Lubricate lever pivoting points if necessary.6-21
Sidestand

Make sure that operation is smooth.

Lubricate pivot if necessary.6-22
Chassis fasteners

Make sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are properly tightened.

Tighten if necessary.—
Instruments, lights, signals
and switches

Check operation.

Correct if necessary.—
ITEM CHECKS PAGE

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-3
2
3
4
5
67
8
9

EAU1770B
General maintenance and lubrication chart
NO. ITEM CHECK OR MAINTENANCE JOBODOMETER 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.
√
2
Clutch

Check operation.

Adjust.
√√√√√
3*
Front brake

Check operation, fluid level and
vehicle for fluid leakage.

Adjust brake lever free play.
√√√√√√

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.
√√√√√

Replace. Every 4 years
6*
Wheels

Check runout and for damage.
√√√√
7*
Tires

Check tread depth and for damage.


Replace if necessary.

Check air pressure.

Correct if necessary.
√√√√√
8*
Wheel bearings

Check bearing for looseness or
damage.
√√√√
9*
Swingarm

Check operation and for
excessive play.
√√√√
10

*
Drive belt

Check belt tension.

Make sure that the rear wheel is
properly aligned.Every 4000 km (2500 mi)

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-12
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

EAU21382
Checking the throttle cable
free play
The throttle cable free play should mea-
sure 4.0–6.0 mm (0.16–0.24 in) at the
throttle grip. Periodically check the
throttle cable free play and, if neces-
sary, have a Yamaha dealer adjust it.
EAU21401
Valve clearance
The valve clearance changes with use,
resulting in improper air-fuel mixture
and/or engine noise. To prevent this
from occurring, the valve clearance
must be adjusted by a Yamaha dealer
at the intervals specified in the periodic
maintenance and lubrication chart.
EAU21562
Tires
To maximize the performance, durabil-
ity, and safe operation of your motorcy-
cle, note the following points regarding
the specified tires.
Tire air pressure
The tire air pressure should be checked
and, if necessary, adjusted before each
ride.
WARNING

EWA10501
Operation of this vehicle with im-
proper tire pressure may cause se-
vere injury or death from loss of
control.

The tire air pressure must be
checked and adjusted on cold
tires (i.e., when the temperature
of the tires equals the ambient
temperature).

The tire air pressure must be ad-
justed in accordance with the
riding speed and with the total
weight of rider, passenger, car-
go, and accessories approved
for this model.
1. Throttle cable free play
1

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-13
2
3
4
5
67
8
9
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.
TIP

The tire tread depth limits may differ
from country to country. Always comply
with the local regulations.
Tire information
This motorcycle is equipped with cast
wheels and tubeless tires.
WARNING

EWA10461
The front and rear tires should be of
the same make and design, other-
wise the handling characteristics of
the vehicle may be different, which
could lead to an accident.
After extensive tests, only the tires list-
ed below have been approved for this
model by Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Tire air pressure (measured on cold
tires):
0–90 kg (0–198 lb):
Front:
225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm
2

, 33 psi)
Rear:
250 kPa (2.50 kgf/cm
2

, 36 psi)
90–210 kg (198–463 lb):
Front:
225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm
2

, 33 psi)
Rear:
250 kPa (2.50 kgf/cm
2

, 36 psi)
Maximum load*:
210 kg (463 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)

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-14
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
WARNING

EWA10470

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.
EAU21960
Cast wheels
To maximize the performance, durabil-
ity, and safe operation of your vehicle,
note the following points regarding the
specified wheels.

The wheel rims should be checked
for cracks, bends or warpage be-
fore each ride. If any damage is
found, have a Yamaha dealer re-
place the wheel. Do not attempt
even the smallest repair to the
wheel. A deformed or cracked
wheel must be replaced.

The wheel should be balanced
whenever either the tire or wheel
has been changed or replaced. An
unbalanced wheel can result in
poor performance, adverse han-
dling characteristics, and a short-
ened tire life.

Ride at moderate speeds after
changing a tire since the tire sur-
face must first be “broken in” for it
to develop its optimal characteris-
tics.
EAU22043
Adjusting the clutch lever free
play
The clutch lever free play should mea-
sure 5.0–10.0 mm (0.20–0.39 in) as
shown. Periodically check the clutch le-
ver free play and, if necessary, adjust it
as follows.
1. Slide the rubber cover back at the
clutch lever.
2. Loosen the locknut.
3. To increase the clutch lever free
play, turn the adjusting bolt in di-
rection (a). To decrease the clutch
Front tire:
Size:
130/70-18M/C 63H
Manufacturer/model:
BRIDGESTONE/EXEDRA
G721 J
DUNLOP/D404F
Rear tire:
Size:
170/70B16M/C 75H
Manufacturer/model:
BRIDGESTONE/EXEDRA
G722 J
DUNLOP/K555
1. Rubber cover
2. Clutch lever free play adjusting bolt
3. Locknut
4. Clutch lever free play
21
3
4
(a)
(b)

MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
7-3
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
tection spray on all metal,
including chrome- and nickel-plat-
ed, surfaces.
4. Use spray oil as a universal clean-
er to remove any remaining dirt.
5. Touch up minor paint damage
caused by stones, etc.
6. Wax all painted and chrome-plat-
ed surfaces. Avoid combination
cleaner waxes, many of which
contain abrasives that may mar
the paint or protective finish.
7. Let the motorcycle dry completely
before storing or covering it.
WARNING

EWA11131
Contaminants on the brakes or tires
can cause loss of control.

Make sure that there is no oil or
wax on the brakes or tires.

If necessary, clean the brake
discs and brake linings with a
regular brake disc cleaner or ac-
etone, and wash the tires with
warm water and a mild deter-
gent. Before riding at higher
speeds, test the motorcycle’s
braking performance and cor-
nering behavior.
NOTICE

ECA10950

Apply spray oil and wax spar-
ingly and make sure to wipe off
any excess.

Never apply oil or wax to the
drive belt.

Never apply oil or wax to any
rubber and plastic parts, but
treat them with a suitable care
product.

Avoid using abrasive polishing
compounds as they will wear
away the paint.
TIP


Consult a Yamaha dealer for ad-
vice on what products to use.

Washing, rainy weather or humid
climates can cause the headlight
lens to fog. Turning the headlight
on for a short period of time will
help remove the moisture from the
lens.
EAU26281
Storage
Short-term
Always store your motorcycle in a cool,
dry place and, if necessary, protect it
against dust with a porous cover.
NOTICE

ECA10810

Storing the motorcycle in a
poorly ventilated room or cover-
ing it with a tarp, while it is still
wet, will allow water and humid-
ity to seep in and cause rust.

To prevent corrosion, avoid
damp cellars, stables (because
of the presence of ammonia)
and areas where strong chemi-
cals are stored.
Long-term
Before storing your motorcycle for sev-
eral months:
1. Follow all the instructions in the
“Care” section of this chapter.
2. Fill up the fuel tank and add fuel
stabilizer (if available) to prevent
the fuel tank from rusting and the

MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
7-4
2
3
4
5
6
78
9
fuel from deteriorating.
3. Perform the following steps to pro-
tect the cylinders, piston rings, etc.
from corrosion.
a. Remove the spark plug caps
and spark plugs.
b. Pour a teaspoonful of engine oil
into each spark plug bore.
c. Install the spark plug caps onto
the spark plugs, and then place
the spark plugs on the cylinder
head so that the electrodes are
grounded. (This will limit spark-
ing during the next step.)
d. Turn the engine over several
times with the starter. (This will
coat the cylinder walls with oil.)
WARNING! To prevent dam-
age or injury from sparking,
make sure to ground the
spark plug electrodes while
turning the engine
over.

[EWA10951]

e. Remove the spark plug caps
from the spark plugs, and then
install the spark plugs and the
spark plug caps.
4. Lubricate all control cables and thepivoting points of all levers and
pedals as well as of the sidestand/
centerstand.
5. Check and, if necessary, correct
the tire air pressure, and then lift
the motorcycle so that both of its
wheels are off the ground. Alterna-
tively, turn the wheels a little every
month in order to prevent the tires
from becoming degraded in one
spot.
6. Cover the muffler outlet with a
plastic bag to prevent moisture
from entering it.
7. Remove the battery and fully
charge it. Store it in a cool, dry
place and charge it once a month.
Do not store the battery in an ex-
cessively cold or warm place [less
than 0 °C (30°F) or more than 30
°C (90°F)]. For more information
on storing the battery, see page
6-24.
TIP

Make any necessary repairs before
storing the motorcycle.