engine YAMAHA YZF-R3 2015 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 AND 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 ...................... 3-11
Clutch lever .................................. 3-12
Shift pedal .................................... 3-13
Brake lever.................................... 3-13
Brake pedal .................................. 3-13
ABS .............................................. 3-14
Fuel tank cap ................................ 3-15
Fuel ............................................... 3-15
Fuel tank breather hose and overflow hose ............................ 3-17
Catalytic converter ....................... 3-17
Seats ............................................ 3-18
Helmet holders ............................. 3-19
Storage compartment .................. 3-20
Rear view mirrors.......................... 3-20
Adjusting the shock absorber assembly ................................... 3-20
Luggage strap holders ................. 3-21 Sidestand ...................................... 3-22
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
Engine break-in ............................... 5-4
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
Checking the spark plugs ............... 6-8
Engine oil and oil filter cartridge...... 6-9
Coolant.......................................... 6-12
Replacing the air filter element and cleaning the check hose..... 6-13
Checking the throttle grip free
play ............................................ 6-15
Valve clearance ............................. 6-15
Tires .............................................. 6-15
Cast wheels................................... 6-17 Adjusting the clutch lever free
play ............................................ 6-18
Checking the brake lever free play ............................................ 6-19
Brake light switches ..................... 6-20
Checking the front and rear
brake pads ................................ 6-20
Checking the brake fluid level ...... 6-21
Changing the brake fluid .............. 6-22
Drive chain slack........................... 6-22
Cleaning and lubricating the
drive chain ................................. 6-24
Checking and lubricating the cables ........................................ 6-25
Checking and lubricating the throttle grip and cable ............... 6-25
Checking and lubricating the
brake and shift pedals............... 6-25
Checking and lubricating the brake and clutch levers ............. 6-26
Checking and lubricating the sidestand................................... 6-27
Lubricating the swingarm
pivots......................................... 6-27
Checking the front fork ................. 6-27
Checking the steering................... 6-28
Checking the wheel bearings ....... 6-28
Battery .......................................... 6-29
Replacing the fuses ...................... 6-30
Replacing a headlight bulb ........... 6-32
Auxiliary light bulb ........................ 6-34UB02E0E0.book Page 1 Thursday, January 15, 2015 3:39 PM

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 oper-
ators.
• 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
operator. A typical error made by
the operator is veering wide on a
turn due to excessive speed or un-
dercornering (insufficient lean an-
gle for the speed).
• Always obey the speed limit and never travel faster than warrant-
ed by road and traffic condi-
tions. • 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 pre-
vention 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 abra-
sions 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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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:
160 kg (353 lb)
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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. Refer to page
6-15 for tire specifications and more in-
formation on 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.
 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 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.
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DESCRIPTION
2-1
2
EAU10411
Left view
1
45
3
2
7
6
8
9
1. Coolant reservoir (page 6-12)
2. Main fuse (page 6-30)
3. Owner’s tool kit (page 6-2)
4. Passenger seat lock (page 3-18)
5. Storage compartment (page 3-20)
6. Shock absorber assembly spring preload adjusting ring (page 3-20)
7. Shift pedal (page 3-13)
8. Engine oil drain bolt (page 6-9)9. Engine oil filter cartridge (page 6-9)
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DESCRIPTION
2-2
2
EAU10421
Right view
4
9
1
2
3
8
7
6
5
1. Fuse box (page 6-30)
2. Battery (page 6-29)
3. Fuel tank cap (page 3-15)
4. Headlight (page 6-32)
5. Engine oil filler cap (page 6-9)
6. Engine oil level check window (page 6-9)
7. Brake pedal (page 3-13)
8. Rear brake light switch (page 6-20) 9. Rear brake fluid reservoir (page 6-21)UB02E0E0.book Page 2 Thursday, January 15, 2015 3:39 PM

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-1
3
EAU10462
Main switch/steering lockThe main switch/steering lock controls
the ignition and lighting systems, and is
used to lock the steering. The various
positions are described below.
EAU62480
(on)
All electrical circuits are supplied with
power; the meter lighting, taillight, li-
cense plate light and auxiliary light
come on, and the engine can be start-
ed. The key cannot be removed.
TIPThe headlight comes on automatically
when the engine is started and stays
on until the key is turned to “ ”, even
if the engine stalls.
EAU54301
(off)
All electrical systems are off. The key
can be removed.
WARNING
EWA16371
Never turn the key to “ ” or “LOCK”
while the vehicle is movin g. Other-
wise the electrical systems will be
switched off, which may result in
loss of control or an acci dent.
EAU60860
LOCK
The steering is locked, and all electrical
systems are off. The key can be re-
moved. To lock the steering
1. Turn the handlebars all the way to
the left.
2. Push the key in from the “ ” po- sition, and then turn it to “LOCK”
while still pushing it.
3. Remove the key.
ON
OFF
LOCK
1. Push.
2. Turn.12
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INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-2
3
To unlock the steering
Push the key in, and then turn it to “ ”
while still pushing it.
EAU49398
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.
EAU62530
Oil pressure warnin g li ght “ ”
This warning light comes on if the en-
gine oil pressure is low.
The electrical circuit of the warning
light can be checked by turning the key
to “ ”. The warning light should come
on and remain on until the engine is
started.
If the warning light does not come on
initially when the key is turned to “ ”,
have a Yamaha dealer check the elec-
trical circuit.NOTICE
ECA21210
If the warnin g li ght comes on when
the en gine is runnin g, stop the en-
g ine imme diately an d check oil level.
If the oil level is below the minimum
level, a dd sufficient oil of the recom-
men ded t y p e t o r a i s e i t u p t o t h e c o r -
rect level. If the oil pressure warnin g
li g ht remains on even if the oil level
1. Push.
2. Turn.12
1. Neutral indicator light “ ”
2. High beam indicator light “ ”
3. Turn signal indicator light “ ”
4. Shift timing indicator light
5. Engine trouble warning light “ ”
6. Oil pressure warning light “ ”
7. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning
light “ ”
5
6
3
1
2
4
km/hkm/L
L/100km7MPHmileMPG
ABS
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INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-3
3is correct, imme
diately turn the en-
g ine off an d have a Yamaha d ealer
check the vehicle.
TIPIf the warning light does not go off after
starting the engine, check the engine
oil level and add oil if necessary. (See
page 6-9.)
If the warning light remains on after
adding engine oil, have a Yamaha
dealer check the vehicle.
EAU62790
En gine trou ble warnin g lig ht “ ”
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 3-11
for an explanation of the self-diagnosis
device.)
The electrical circuit of the warning
light can be checked by turning the key
to “ ”. 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 “ ”,
or if the warning light remains on, have
a Yamaha dealer check the electrical
circuit.
TIPThe engine trouble warning light will
come on while the start switch is
pushed, but this does not indicate a
malfunction.
EAU51662
ABS warnin
g li ght “ ”
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 high-
er
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
EWA16041
If the ABS warnin g li ght does not g o
off after travelin g at a speed of 10
km/h (6 mi/h) or hi gher, or if the
warnin g li ght comes on or flashes
while ri din g, the brake system re-
verts to conventional brakin g. If ei-
ther of the a bove occurs, or if the
warnin g li ght does not come on at
all, use extra caution to avoi d possi-
b le wheel lock durin g emer gency
b rakin g. Have a Yamaha d ealer
check the brake system an d electri-
cal circuits as soon as possi ble.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.
EAU62470
Shift timin g in dicator li ght
This indicator light can be set to come
on and go off at the desired engine
speeds and is used to inform the rider
when it is time to shift to the next high-
er gear. (See page 3-9 for a more de-
ABS
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INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-5
3Speed
ometer
The speedometer shows the vehicle’s
traveling speed.
Tachometer
The tachometer allows the rider to
monitor the engine speed and keep it
within the ideal power range.
When the key is turned to “ ”, the ta-
chometer will sweep across the r/min
range and then return to zero r/min in
order to test the electrical circuit.
NOTICE
ECA10032
Do not operate the en gine in the ta-
chometer red zone. Re
d zone: 12500 r/min an d a bove
Clock
The clock is displayed when the key is
turned to “ ”.
To set the clock1. Turn the key to “ ”.
2. Push the “SEL” button and “RES”
button together for at least two
seconds.
3. When the hour digits start flash- ing, push the “RES” button to set
the hours.
4. Push the “SEL” button, and the minute digits will start flashing.
5. Push the “RES” button to set the minutes. 6. Push the “SEL” button and then
release it to start the clock.
Fuel meter
The fuel meter indicates the amount of
fuel in the fuel tank.
When the key is turned to “ ”, the dis-
play segments of the fuel meter will
sweep once across the fuel level range
and then return to the current amount
in order to test the electrical circuit.
The display segments of the fuel meter
disappear towards “E” (Empty) as the
fuel level decreases. When the last
segment starts flashing, refuel as soon
as possible.
1. Tachometer
2. Tachometer red zone
2
1
km/hkm/L
L/100kmMPHmileMPG
1. Clock
1
1. Fuel meter
1
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