steering YAMAHA YZF-R6 2008 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
Immobilizer system .........................3-1
Main switch/steering lock ................3-2
Indicator and warning lights ............3-4
Multi-function meter unit .................3-7
Anti-theft alarm (optional) .............3-13
Handlebar switches ......................3-14
Clutch lever ...................................3-15
Shift pedal .....................................3-15
Brake lever ...................................3-16
Brake pedal ..................................3-16
Fuel tank cap ................................3-17
Fuel ...............................................3-17
Fuel tank breather/overflow
hose ..........................................3-18
Catalytic converters ......................3-19
Seats ............................................3-19
Helmet holding cable ....................3-20
Adjusting the front fork ..................3-21
Adjusting the shock absorber
assembly ...................................3-23
Luggage strap holders ..................3-26
EXUP system ...............................3-26Sidestand ..................................... 3-27
Ignition circuit cut-off system ........ 3-27
PRE-OPERATION CHECKS............. 4-1
Pre-operation check list .................. 4-2
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
MINOR REPAIR................................. 6-1
Owner’s tool kit ............................... 6-1
Periodic maintenance and
lubrication chart .......................... 6-2
Removing and installing cowlings
and panels .................................. 6-7
Checking the spark plugs ............. 6-11
Engine oil and oil filter cartridge ... 6-12
Coolant ......................................... 6-15
Air filter element ........................... 6-19
Checking the engine idling
speed ........................................ 6-19
Checking the throttle cable free
play ........................................... 6-19
Valve clearance ............................ 6-20Tires ............................................. 6-20
Cast wheels ................................. 6-23
Adjusting the clutch lever free
play ........................................... 6-23
Adjusting the rear brake light
switch ....................................... 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 .......................... 6-26
Cleaning and lubricating the drive
chain ......................................... 6-27
Checking and lubricating
the cables ................................. 6-28
Checking and lubricating
the throttle grip and cable ......... 6-28
Checking and lubricating
the brake and shift pedals ........ 6-29
Checking and lubricating
the brake and clutch levers ...... 6-29
Checking and lubricating
the sidestand ............................ 6-30
Lubricating the swingarm
pivots ........................................ 6-30
Checking the front fork ................. 6-31
Checking the steering .................. 6-31
Checking the wheel bearings ....... 6-32
Battery ......................................... 6-32
Replacing the fuses ..................... 6-34
Replacing a headlight bulb .......... 6-35U13SE0E0.book Page 1 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

SAFETY INFORMATION
1-3
1Loading
The total weight of the operator, pas-
senger, accessories and cargo must
not exceed the maximum load limit.
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. Make
sure to distribute the weight as
evenly as possible on both sides of
the motorcycle to minimize imbal-
ance or instability.


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.


Never attach any large or heavy
items to the handlebar, front fork,
or front fender. These items, in-
cluding such cargo as sleepingbags, duffel bags, or tents, can
create unstable handling or a slow
steering response.
Accessories
Genuine Yamaha accessories have
been specifically designed for use on
this motorcycle. Since Yamaha cannot
test all other accessories that may be
available, you must personally be re-
sponsible for the proper selection, in-
stallation and use of non-Yamaha
accessories. Use extreme caution
when selecting and installing any ac-
cessories.
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 can
create 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-
Maximum load:
190 kg (419 lb)
U13SE0E0.book Page 3 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

DESCRIPTION
2-3
2
EAU10430
Controls and instruments1. Clutch lever (page 3-15)
2. Left handlebar switches (page 3-14)
3. Main switch/steering lock (page 3-2)
4. Multi-function meter unit (page 3-7)
5. Right handlebar switches (page 3-14)
6. Brake lever (page 3-16)
7. Throttle grip (page 6-19)U13SE0E0.book Page 3 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-2
3


Keep other immobilizer system
keys away from the main switch
as they may cause signal inter-ference.
EAU10471
Main switch/steering lock The main switch/steering lock controls
the ignition and lighting systems, and is
used to lock the steering.NOTE:Be sure to use the standard key (black
bow) for regular use of the vehicle. To
minimize the risk of losing the code re-
registering key (red bow), keep it in a
safe place and only use it for code re-registering.
EAU38530
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.NOTE:The headlight comes on automatically
when the engine is started and stays on
until the key is turned to “OFF”, even ifthe engine stalls.
EAU10660
OFF
All electrical systems are off. The key
can be removed.
EAU10680
LOCK
The steering is locked, and all electrical
systems are off. The key can be re-
moved.
U13SE0E0.book Page 2 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS
3-3
3 To lock the steering
1. Turn the handlebars all the way to
the left.
2. Push the key in from the “OFF” po-
sition, and then turn it to “LOCK”
while still pushing it.
3. Remove the key.To unlock the steering
Push the key in, and then turn it to
“OFF” while still pushing it.
WARNING
EWA10060
Never turn the key to “OFF” or
“LOCK” while the vehicle is moving,
otherwise the electrical systems will
be switched off, which may result in
loss of control or an accident. Make
sure that the vehicle is stopped be-
fore turning the key to “OFF” or“LOCK”.
EAU34341
(Parking)
The steering is locked, and the taillight,
license plate light and auxiliary light are
on. The hazard lights and turn signal
lights can be turned on, but all other
electrical systems are off. The key can
be removed.
The steering must be locked before the
key can be turned to“”.
CAUTION:
ECA11020
Do not use the parking position for
an extended length of time, other-wise the battery may discharge.
1. Push.
2. Turn.
1. Push.
2. Turn.
U13SE0E0.book Page 3 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR
6-3
6
8*Brake hosesCheck for cracks or damage.√√√√√
Replace. Every 4 years
9*WheelsCheck runout and for damage.√√√√
10*TiresCheck tread depth and for dam-
age.
Replace if necessary.
Check air pressure.
Correct if necessary.√√√√√
11*Wheel bearingsCheck bearing for looseness or
damage.√√√√
12*SwingarmCheck operation and for exces-
sive play.√√√√
Lubricate with lithium-soap-based
grease.Every 50000 km (30000 mi)
13 Drive chainCheck chain slack, alignment and
condition.
Adjust and lubricate chain with a
special O-ring chain lubricant
thoroughly. Every 800 km (500 mi) and after washing the motorcycle or riding in the rain
14*Steering bearingsCheck bearing play and steering
for roughness.√√√√√
Lubricate with lithium-soap-based
grease.Every 20000 km (12000 mi)
15*Chassis fastenersMake sure that all nuts, bolts and
screws are properly tightened.√√√√√
16Brake lever pivot
shaftLubricate with silicone grease.√√√√√ 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)
U13SE0E0.book Page 3 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR
6-31
6
EAU23271
Checking the front fork The condition and operation of the front
fork must be checked as follows at the
intervals specified in the periodic main-
tenance and lubrication chart.
To check the condition
WARNING
EWA10750
Securely support the vehicle so thatthere is no danger of it falling over.
Check the inner tubes for scratches,
damage and excessive oil leakage.
To check the operation
1. Place the vehicle on a level sur-
face and hold it in an upright posi-
tion.
2. While applying the front brake,
push down hard on the handlebars
several times to check if the front
fork compresses and rebounds
smoothly.
CAUTION:
ECA10590
If any damage is found or the front
fork does not operate smoothly,
have a Yamaha dealer check or re-pair it.
EAU23280
Checking the steering Worn or loose steering bearings may
cause danger. Therefore, the operation
of the steering must be checked as fol-
lows at the intervals specified in the pe-
riodic maintenance and lubrication
chart.
1. Place a stand under the engine to
raise the front wheel off the
ground.
WARNING
EWA10750
Securely support the vehicle so thatthere is no danger of it falling over.
2. Hold the lower ends of the front
fork legs and try to move them for-
ward and backward. If any free
play can be felt, have a Yamaha
dealer check or repair the steering.
U13SE0E0.book Page 31 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

CONSUMER INFORMATION
9-1
9
EAU26351
Identification numbers Record the key identification number,
vehicle identification number and mod-
el label information in the spaces pro-
vided below for assistance when
ordering spare parts from a Yamaha
dealer or for reference in case the vehi-
cle is stolen.
KEY IDENTIFICATION NUMBER:
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
NUMBER:
MODEL LABEL INFORMATION:
EAU26381
Key identification number
The key identification number is
stamped into the key tag. Record this
number in the space provided and use
it for reference when ordering a new
key.
EAU26400
Vehicle identification number
The vehicle identification number is
stamped into the steering head pipe.
Record this number in the space pro-
vided.NOTE:
The vehicle identification number is
used to identify your motorcycle and
may be used to register your motor-
cycle with the licensing authority in yourarea.
1. Key identification number
2. Code re-registering key (red bow)
3. Standard keys (black bow)
1. Vehicle identification number
U13SE0E0.book Page 1 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM

INDEXAAir filter element .................................... 6-19
Anti-theft alarm (optional)...................... 3-13
Auxiliary light ......................................... 6-38BBattery................................................... 6-32
Brake and clutch levers,
checking and lubricating ..................... 6-29
Brake and shift pedals,
checking and lubricating ..................... 6-29
Brake fluid, changing ............................ 6-26
Brake fluid level, checking .................... 6-25
Brake lever ............................................ 3-16
Brake pedal ........................................... 3-16CCables, checking and lubricating .......... 6-28
Care ........................................................ 7-1
Catalytic converters .............................. 3-19
Clutch lever ........................................... 3-15
Clutch lever free play, adjusting ............ 6-23
Coolant.................................................. 6-15
Coolant temperature warning light .......... 3-5
Cowlings and panels,
removing and installing ......................... 6-7DDimmer switch ...................................... 3-14
Drive chain, cleaning and lubricating .... 6-27
Drive chain slack ................................... 6-26EEngine break-in ....................................... 5-3
Engine idling speed, checking .............. 6-19
Engine oil and oil filter cartridge ............ 6-12
Engine stop switch ................................ 3-14
Engine trouble warning light.................... 3-7EXUP system ....................................... 3-26
FFront and rear brake pads, checking .... 6-24
Front fork, adjusting .............................. 3-21
Front fork, checking .............................. 6-31
Fuel....................................................... 3-17
Fuel consumption, tips for reducing........ 5-3
Fuel level warning light ........................... 3-4
Fuel tank breather/overflow hose ......... 3-18
Fuel tank cap ........................................ 3-17
Fuses, replacing ................................... 6-34HHandlebar switches .............................. 3-14
Hazard switch ....................................... 3-15
Headlight bulb, replacing ...................... 6-35
Helmet holding cable ............................ 3-20
High beam indicator light ........................ 3-4
Horn switch ........................................... 3-14IIdentification numbers ............................ 9-1
Ignition circuit cut-off system ................ 3-27
Immobilizer system ................................. 3-1
Immobilizer system indicator light........... 3-7
Indicator and warning lights .................... 3-4KKey identification number ....................... 9-1LLicense plate light bulb, replacing ........ 6-37
Luggage strap holders .......................... 3-26MMain switch/steering lock........................ 3-2
Matte color, caution ................................ 7-1
Model label ............................................. 9-2
Multi-function meter unit ......................... 3-7
NNeutral indicator light .............................. 3-4OOil level warning light .............................. 3-4PParking .................................................... 5-4
Part locations .......................................... 2-1
Pass switch ........................................... 3-14
Periodic maintenance and
lubrication chart .................................... 6-2
Pre-operation check list........................... 4-2RRear brake light switch, adjusting ......... 6-24SSafety information ................................... 1-1
Seats ..................................................... 3-19
Shifting .................................................... 5-2
Shift pedal ............................................. 3-15
Shift timing indicator light ........................ 3-7
Shock absorber assembly, adjusting .... 3-23
Sidestand .............................................. 3-27
Sidestand, checking and lubricating...... 6-30
Spark plugs, checking ........................... 6-11
Specifications .......................................... 8-1
Starting the engine .................................. 5-1
Start switch............................................ 3-14
Steering, checking................................. 6-31
Storage.................................................... 7-4
Supporting the motorcycle .................... 6-38
Swingarm pivots, lubricating ................. 6-30TTail/brake light ....................................... 6-36
Throttle cable free play, checking ......... 6-19
U13SE0E0.book Page 1 Monday, August 27, 2007 4:53 PM