check engine YAMAHA YZF-R125 2021 Owners Manual

Table of contentsSafety information ............................ 1-1
Description ....................................... 2-1
Left view ......................................... 2-1
Right view ....................................... 2-2
Controls and instruments ............... 2-3
Instrument an d control functions ... 3-1
Main switch/steering lock............... 3-1
Indicator lights and warning lights............................................ 3-2
Multi-function meter unit ................ 3-4
Handlebar switches ...................... 3-12
Clutch lever .................................. 3-13
Shift pedal .................................... 3-14
Brake lever.................................... 3-14
Brake pedal .................................. 3-14
ABS .............................................. 3-15
Fuel tank cap ................................ 3-16
Fuel ............................................... 3-16
Fuel tank breather hose and overflow hose ............................ 3-18
Catalytic converter ....................... 3-19
Seats ............................................ 3-19
Sidestand ..................................... 3-20
Ignition circuit cut-off system ....... 3-21 For your safety – pre-operation
checks
............................................... 4-1
Operation an d important ri din g
points ................................................. 5-1
Engine break-in ............................... 5-1
Starting the engine .......................... 5-2
Shifting ............................................ 5-3
Tips for reducing fuel consumption ................................ 5-4
Parking ............................................ 5-4
Perio dic maintenance an d
a d justment ........................................ 6-1
Tool kit ............................................ 6-2
Periodic maintenance chart for the emission control system .............. 6-3
General maintenance and lubrication chart ........................... 6-4
Removing and installing cowlings... 6-8
Checking the spark plug ................. 6-9
Canister ......................................... 6-10
Engine oil and oil filter element ..... 6-11
Why Yamalube .............................. 6-13
Coolant.......................................... 6-14
Replacing the air filter element
and cleaning the check hose..... 6-15
Adjusting the engine idling speed ......................................... 6-16
Adjusting the throttle grip free play ............................................ 6-16 Valve clearance............................. 6-17
Tires .............................................. 6-17
Cast wheels .................................. 6-19
Adjusting the clutch lever free
play ............................................ 6-20
Checking the front brake lever free play..................................... 6-21
Adjusting the brake pedal free
play ............................................ 6-21
Brake light switches ..................... 6-22
Checking the front and rear brake pads .......................................... 6-22
Checking the brake fluid level ...... 6-23
Changing the brake fluid .............. 6-24
Drive chain slack........................... 6-25
Cleaning and lubricating the drive chain.......................................... 6-26
Checking and lubricating the cables ........................................ 6-27
Checking and lubricating the
throttle grip and cable ............... 6-27
Checking and lubricating the brake and shift pedals............... 6-27
Checking and lubricating the brake and clutch levers ............. 6-28
Checking and lubricating the
sidestand................................... 6-29
Lubricating the rear suspension ... 6-29
Checking the front fork ................. 6-29
Checking the steering................... 6-30
Checking the wheel bearings ....... 6-30UB5GE2E0.book Page 1 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Safety information
1-3
1Avoi
d Car bon Monoxi de Poisonin g
All engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, a deadly gas. Breathing
carbon monoxide can cause head-
aches, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea,
confusion, and eventually death.
Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odor-
less, tasteless gas which may be pres-
ent even if you do not see or smell any
engine exhaust. Deadly levels of car-
bon monoxide can collect rapidly and
you can quickly be overcome and un-
able to save yourself. Also, deadly lev-
els of carbon monoxide can linger for
hours or days in enclosed or poorly
ventilated areas. If you experience any
symptoms of carbon monoxide poi-
soning, leave the area immediately, get
fresh air, and SEEK MEDICAL TREAT-
MENT.  Do not run engine indoors. Even if
you try to ventilate engine exhaust
with fans or open windows and
doors, carbon monoxide can rap-
idly reach dangerous levels.
 Do not run engine in poorly venti-
lated or partially enclosed areas
such as barns, garages, or car-
ports. 
Do not run engine outdoors where
engine exhaust can be drawn into
a building through openings such
as windows and doors.
Loa din g
Adding accessories or cargo to your
motorcycle can adversely affect stabil-
ity and handling if the weight distribu-
tion of the motorcycle is changed. To
avoid the possibility of an accident, use
extreme 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 overloa ded vehicle
coul d cause an acci dent. 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 dis-
tribute the weight as evenly as
possible on both sides of the mo-
torcycle to minimize imbalance or
instability.
 Shifting weights can create a sud-
den imbalance. Make sure that
accessories and cargo are se-
curely attached to the motorcycle
before riding. Check accessory
mounts and cargo restraints fre-
quently.
• 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
Maximum loa d:
175 kg (387 lb)
UB5GE2E0.book Page 3 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Safety information
1-5
1operator and may limit control
ability, therefore, such accesso-
ries are not recommended.
 Use caution when adding electri-
cal accessories. If electrical ac-
cessories exceed the capacity of
the motorcycle’s electrical sys-
tem, an electric failure could re-
sult, which could cause a
dangerous loss of lights or engine
power.
Aftermarket Tires an d Rims
The tires and rims that came with your
motorcycle were designed to match
the performance capabilities and to
provide the best combination of han-
dling, braking, and comfort. Other
tires, rims, sizes, and combinations
may not be appropriate. See page 6-17
for tire specifications and for informa-
tion on servicing and replacing your
tires.
Transportin g 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.
 Shift the transmission into gear
(for models with a manual trans-
mission).
 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 location 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 exces-
sively during transport.
UB5GE2E0.book Page 5 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Instrument and control functions
3-2
3
To unlock the steering
From the “LOCK” position, push the
key and turn it to “OFF”.
EAU4939N
In
dicator li ghts an d warnin g
lig hts
EAU11022
Turn si gnal in dicator li ght “ ”
This indicator light flashes when a turn
signal light is flashing.
EAU11061
Neutral in dicator li ght “ ”
This indicator light comes on when the
transmission is in the neutral position.
EAU11081
Hi gh beam in dicator li ght “ ”
This indicator light comes on when the
high beam of the headlight is switched
on.
EAU11449
Coolant temperature warnin g
li g ht “ ”
This warning light comes on when the
engine is overheating. If this occurs,
stop the engine immediately and allow
the engine to cool. (See page 6-37.)
For vehicles with a radiator fan, the ra-
diator fan(s) automatically switch on or
off according to the coolant tempera-
ture.TIPWhen the vehicle is turned on, the light
will come on for a few seconds, and
then go off. If the light does not come
on, or if the light remains on, have a
Yamaha dealer check the vehicle. NOTICE
ECA10022
Do not continue to operate the en-
g ine if it is overheatin g.
1. Push.
2. Turn.12
1. Shift light
2. Turn signal indicator light “ ”
3. High beam indicator light “ ”
4. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning
light “ ”
5. Malfunction indicator light “ ”
6. Coolant temperature warning light “ ”
7. Neutral indicator light “ ”ZAUM15665 6 7
2
3
4
1
ABS
UB5GE2E0.book Page 2 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Instrument and control functions
3-3
3
EAU88330
Malfunction in dicator li ght
(MIL) “ ”
This light comes on or flashes if a prob-
lem is detected in the engine or other
vehicle control system. If this occurs,
have a Yamaha dealer check the on-
board diagnostic system. The electri-
cal circuit of the warning light can be
checked by vehicle power on. The light
should come on for a few seconds,
and then go off. If the light does not
come on initially when the vehicle pow-
er on, or if the light remains on, have a
Yamaha dealer check the vehicle.NOTICE
ECA26820
If the MIL starts flashin g, re duce en-
g ine speed to prevent exhaust sys-
tem damag e.TIPThe engine is sensitively controlled for
the on-board diagnostic system to de-
tect deterioration and malfunction of
the emission control system. Due to
this specification, the MIL may come
on or flash for vehicle modifications,
lack of maintenance, or excessive or improper use of the motorcycle. To
prevent this, observe these precau-
tions.
 Do not attempt to modify the soft-
ware of the engine control unit.
 Do not add any electrical acces-
sories that interfere with engine
control.
 Do not use aftermarket accesso-
ries or parts such as suspension,
spark plugs, injectors, exhaust
system, etc.
 Do not change drivetrain specifi-
cations (chain, sprockets, wheels,
tires, etc.).
 Do not remove or alter the O2 sen-
sor, air induction system, or ex-
haust parts (catalysts or EXUP,
etc.).
 Maintain proper drive chain.
 Maintain correct tire pressure.
 Maintain proper brake pedal
height to prevent rear brake from
dragging.
 Do not operate the vehicle in an
extreme manner. For example, re-
peated or excessive opening and closing of the throttle, racing,
burnouts, wheelies, extended
half-clutch use, etc.
EAU69895
ABS warnin
g li ght “ ”
This warning light comes on when the
vehicle is first turned on, and goes off
after starting riding. If the warning light
comes on while riding, the anti-lock
brake system may not work correctly.
WARNING
EWA16043
If the ABS warnin g li ght does not
turn off after reachin g 10 km/h (6
mi/h), or if the warnin g li ght comes
on while ri din g:
 Use extra caution to avoi d pos-
si ble wheel lock d uring emer-
g ency brakin g.
 Have a Yamaha dealer check
the vehicle as soon as possi ble.
EAU80372
Shift li ght
This light can be set to come on and go
off at select engine speeds. (See page
3-10.)
ABS
UB5GE2E0.book Page 3 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Instrument and control functions
3-12
3
for all six characters. After the
sixth character is set, all charac-
ters will flash twice and the setting
mode will automatically end.
Self-d iagnostic device
This model is equipped with a self-di-
agnostic device for various electrical
circuits.
If a problem is detected in any of those
circuits, the engine trouble warning
light will come on and the display will
indicate an error code.
If the display indicates any error codes,
note the code number, and then have
a Yamaha dealer check the vehicle.
NOTICE
ECA11591
If the display in dicates an error
co de, the vehicle shoul d b e checked
as soon as possi ble in or der to avoi d
en gine damag e.
EAU1234R
Handle bar switchesLeft
Ri ght
1. Self-diagnostic deviceZAUM1582
1
1. Dimmer/Pass switch “ / /PASS”
2. Turn signal switch “ / ”
3. Horn switch “ ”
1. Engine stop switch “ / ”
2. Start switch “ ”ZAUM1583
1
2
3
ZAUM1584
1
2
UB5GE2E0.book Page 12 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Instrument and control functions
3-21
3 this system reg
ularly and have a
Yamaha dealer repair it if it does not
function properly.
EAU44895
I g nition circuit cut-off systemThis system prevents in-gear engine
starts unless the clutch lever is pulled
and the sidestand is up. Also, it will
stop the running engine should the
sidestand be lowered while the trans-
mission is in gear.
Periodically check the system via the
following procedure.TIP This check is most reliable if per-
formed with a warmed-up engine.
 See pages 3-1 and 3-12 for switch
operation information.
UB5GE2E0.book Page 21 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Instrument and control functions
3-22
3
With the engine turned off:
1. Move the sidestand down.
2. Set engine stop switch to run position.
3. Turn main switch to on position.
4. Shift transmission into neutral.
5. Push the start switch.
Does the engine start?
With the engine still running:
6. Move the sidestand up.
7. Pull the clutch lever.
8. Shift transmission into gear.
9. Move the sidestand down.
Does the engine stall?
After the engine has stalled:
10. Move the sidestand up.
11. Pull the clutch lever.
12. Push the start switch.
Does the engine start?
The system is OK. The motorcycle can be ridden.
YES NO YES NO YES NO
The neutral switch may not be working.
The motorcycle should not be ridden until
checked by a Yamaha dealer.
The clutch switch may not be working.
The motorcycle should not be ridden until
checked by a Yamaha dealer.The sidestand switch may not be working.
The motorcycle should not be ridden until
checked by a Yamaha dealer.If a malfunction is found, have the vehicle
inspected before riding.
WARNING
UB5GE2E0.book Page 22 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

For your safety – pre-operation checks
4-1
4
EAU1559B
Inspect your vehicle each time you use it to make sure the vehicle is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection
and maintenance procedures and schedules described in the Owner’s Manual.
WARNING
EWA11152
Failure to inspect or maintain the vehicle properly increases the possibility of an acci dent or equipment damag e.
Do not operate the vehicle if you fin d any pro blem. If a pro blem cannot be corrected b y the proce dures provi ded in
this manual, have the vehicle inspecte d b y a Yamaha dealer.Before using this vehicle, check the following points:
ITEM CHECKS PAGE
Fuel • Check fuel level in fuel tank.
• Refuel if necessary.
• Check fuel line for leakage.
• Check fuel tank breather hose and overflow hose for obstructions, cracks or
damage, and check hose connections. 3-16, 3-18
En gine oil • Check oil level in engine.
• If necessary, add recommended oil to specified level.
• Check vehicle for oil leakage. 6-11
Coolant • Check coolant level in reservoir.
• If necessary, add recommended coolant to specified level.
• Check cooling system for leakage. 6-14
Front 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. 6-22, 6-23
UB5GE2E0.book Page 1 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM

Operation and important ri din g points
5-1
5
EAU15952
Read the Owner’s Manual carefully to
become familiar with all controls. If
there is a control or function you do not
understand, ask your Yamaha dealer.
WARNING
EWA10272
Failure to familiarize yourself with
the controls can lead to loss of con-
trol, which coul d cause an acci dent
or injury.
EAU16831
En gine break-inThere is never a more important period
in the life of your engine than the period
between 0 and 1000 km (600 mi). For
this reason, you should read the fol-
lowing material carefully.
Since the engine is brand new, do not
put an excessive load on it for the first
1000 km (600 mi). The various parts in
the engine wear and polish themselves
to the correct operating clearances.
During this period, prolonged full-throt-
tle operation or any condition that
might result in engine overheating
must be avoided.
EAU16983
0–500 km (0–300 mi)
Avoid prolonged operation above 5000
r/min.
After every hour of operation, stop the
engine, and then let it cool for five to
ten minutes.
Vary the engine speed from time to
time. Do not operate the engine at one
set throttle position. 500–1000 km (300–600 mi)
Avoid prolonged operation above 7500
r/min.
Rev the engine freely through the
gears, but do not use full throttle at any
time.
NOTICE: After 1000 km (600 mi)
of operation, the en gine oil must b e
chan ged , the oil filter cartri dge or el-
ement replace d, an d the oil strainer
cleaned .
[ECA10322]
1000 km (600 mi) and b eyon d
The vehicle can now be operated nor-
mally.NOTICE
ECA10311
 Keep the en gine spee d out of
the tachometer red zone.
 If any en gine trou ble shoul d oc-
cur during the en gine break-in
perio d, imme diately have a
Yamaha dealer check the vehi-
cle.
UB5GE2E0.book Page 1 Thursday, July 30, 2020 3:08 PM