Page 2
INTRODUCTION Welcome to the Yamaha world of motorcycling! As the owner of an XT500E/XT600E, you are benefiting from Yamaha’s vast experience and newest technology regarding the design and manufacture of high-quality products, which have earned Yamaha a reputation for dependability.
8 This manual should be considered a permanent part of this motorcycle and should remain with it even if the motorcycle is subsequently sold. 8 Yamaha continually seeks advancements in product design and quality. Therefore, while this manual contains the most current product information available at the time of printing, there may be minor discrepancies between your motorcycle and this manual.
Page 4
IMPORTANT MANUAL INFORMATION EW000002 PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY BEFORE OPERATING THIS MOTORCYCLE.
EAU00009 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY 2 DESCRIPTION 3 INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS 4 PRE-OPERATION CHECKS 5 OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS 6 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 7 MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE 8 SPECIFICATIONS 9 CONSUMER INFORMATION INDEX...
Q GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY ..........1-1...
Page 9
EAU00021 Q GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY Motorcycles are fascinating vehicles, which can give you an unsurpassed feeling of power and free- dom. However, they also impose certain limits, which you must accept; even the best motorcycle does not ignore the laws of physics. Regular care and maintenance are essential for preserving value and operating condition of your motorcycle.
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS Main switch/steering lock ..............3-1 Indicator lights .................. 3-2 Speedometer unit ................3-2 Tachometer ..................3-3 Handlebar switches ................3-3 Clutch lever ..................3-4 Shift pedal ..................3-5 Brake lever ..................3-5 Brake pedal ..................3-5 Fuel tank cap ..................
EAU00027 INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS EW000016 Never turn the key to “OFF” or “LOCK” while the motorcycle is moving, otherwise the electrical systems will be switched off, LOCK which may result in loss of control or an accident. Make sure that the motorcycle is stopped before turn- 1.
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS EAU00057 Turn signal indicator light “5” Tur n si g nal i n di c at o r l i g ht This indicator light flashes when the turn signal switch is pushed to the left &...
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS EAU03888 Dimmer switch “%/&” Di m mer swi t c h Set this switch to “&” for the high beam and to “%” for the low beam. & EAU03889 Turn signal switch “4/6” Tur n si g nal swi t c h To signal a right-hand turn, push this switch to “6”.
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS EAU00143 Start switch “,” St a r t swi t c h Push this switch to crank the engine with the starter. EC000005 See page 5-1 for starting instruc- tions prior to starting the engine. 1. Engine stop switch “$/#” 1.
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS 1. Shift pedal 1. Brake lever 1. Brake pedal EAU00157 EAU00158 EAU00162 Shift pedal Brake lever Brake pedal Shi f t pedal Br a ke l e ver Br a ke pedal The shift pedal is located on the left The brake lever is located at the right The brake pedal is on the right side side of the engine and is used in...
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS NOTE: The fuel tank cap cannot be installed unless the key is in the lock. In addi- tion, the key cannot be removed if the cap is not properly installed and locked. EW000023 a. Unlock. 1. Filler tube Make sure that the fuel tank cap is b.
Page 21
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS EAU00185 EAU04284 Your Yamaha engine has been designed to use regular unleaded Recommended fuel: Immediately wipe off spilled fuel gasoline with a research octane num- REGULAR UNLEADED with a clean, dry, soft cloth, since ber of 91 or higher. If knocking (or...
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS OFF: closed position ON: normal position RES: reserve position FUEL FUEL FUEL 1. Arrow mark pointing over “OFF” 1. Arrow mark pointing over “ON” 1. Arrow mark pointing over “RES” EAU03050 Fuel cock With the lever in this position, fuel This indicates reserve.
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS 1. Starter (choke) knob “1” 1. Bolt (×2) 1. Projection (×2) 2. Seat holder (×2) EAU04038 EAU00240 To install the seat Starter (choke) knob “1” Seat 1. Insert the projections on the front St a r t e r ( c hoke) knob Seat Starting a cold engine requires a rich- To remove the seat...
INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS 1. Helmet holder 1. Locknut a. Open. 2. Adjusting nut 2. To increase the spring preload EAU00260 EAU03591 and thereby harden the suspen- Helmet holder Adjusting the shock Hel m et hol d er sion, turn the adjusting nut in absorber assembly To open the helmet holder, insert the direction a.
8 Do not deform or damage the gas cylinder in any way, as this will result in poor damp- ing performance. 8 Always have a Yamaha dealer service the shock absorber. 3-11...
Therefore, check this system 8 It cuts the running engine when regularly as described below and have a Yamaha dealer repair it if it the transmission is in gear and does not function properly. the sidestand is moved down.
Page 27
5. Push the start switch. Does the engine start? The neutral switch may be defective. The motorcycle should not be ridden until checked by a Yamaha dealer. With the engine still running: 6. Move the sidestand up. 7. Keep the clutch lever pulled.
• If necessary, add recommended oil to specified level. 6-10–6-13 • Check vehicle for oil leakage. • Check operation. • If soft or spongy, have Yamaha dealer bleed hydraulic system. • Check lever free play. Front brake • Adjust if necessary.
Page 30
• Adjust if necessary. • Make sure that operation is smooth. Throttle grip • Check free play. 6-16, 6-27 • If necessary, have Yamaha dealer make adjustment or lubricate. • Make sure that operation is smooth. Control cables 6-27 • Lubricate if necessary.
Page 31
• Check operation of ignition circuit cut-off system. Sidestand switch 3-11–3-13 • If system is defective, have Yamaha dealer check vehicle. NOTE: Pre-operation checks should be made each time the motorcycle is used. Such an inspection can be accomplished in a very short time;...
EW000054 should be on, otherwise have a length of time. Exhaust fumes Yamaha dealer check the electrical 8 Before starting the engine, are poisonous, and inhaling circuit. check the function of the igni-...
OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS EAU01258 7. When the engine is warm, turn NOTE: Starting a warm engine the starter (choke) off. If the engine fails to start, release the Engi n e, st a r t i n g a war m Follow the same procedure as for start switch, wait a few seconds, and NOTE:...
OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS EC000048 EAU02941 Recommended shift points (for Switzerland only) 8 Even with the transmission in Shi f t poi n t s ( f o r Swi t z er l a nd onl y ) the neutral position, do not The recommended shift points during coast for long periods of time...
OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS EAU00424 EAU01128 EAU04315 Tips for reducing fuel Engine break-in 0–1,000 km consumption Engi n e br e ak- i n Avoid prolonged operation above There is never a more important peri- Fuel consumpt i o n, t i p s f o r r e duci n g 4,000 r/min.
“OFF”. in period, immediately have a EW000058 Yamaha dealer check the vehi- 8 Since the engine and exhaust cle. system can become very hot, park in a place where pedestri- ans or children are not likely to touch them.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR Owner’s tool kit ..........6-1 Checking and lubricating the throttle grip Periodic maintenance and lubrication chart ..6-3 and cable ............ 6-27 Removing and installing the cowling Checking and lubricating the brake and and panels ............ 6-6 shift pedals ..........
If you are not familiar with motor- lubrication will keep your vehicle in cycle maintenance work, have a the safest and most efficient condi- Yamaha dealer do it for you. tion possible. The most important points of inspection, adjustment, and lubrication are explained on the fol- lowing pages.
Page 40
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR NOTE: If you do not have the tools or experi- ence required for a particular job, have a Yamaha dealer perform it for you. EW000063 Modifications not approved by Yamaha may cause loss of perfor- mance and render the vehicle unsafe for use.
8 The annual checks must be performed every year, except if a kilometer-based maintenance is performed instead. 8 From 50,000 km, repeat the maintenance intervals starting from 10,000 km. 8 Items marked with an asterisk should be performed by a Yamaha dealer as they require special tools, data and technical skills.
Page 42
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR ODOMETER READING (× 1,000 km) ANNUAL ITEM CHECK OR MAINTENANCE JOB CHECK √ √ √ √ √ • Check for cracks or damage. Brake hoses • Replace. (See NOTE on page 6-5.) Every 4 years •...
Page 43
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR ODOMETER READING (× 1,000 km) ANNUAL ITEM CHECK OR MAINTENANCE JOB CHECK √ √ √ √ Rear suspension relay • Check operation. arm and connecting arm √ √ • Lubricate with molybdenum disulfide grease. pivoting points •...
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 1. Cowling A 1. Panel A 1. Panel B EAU03516 Refer to this section each time the Removing and installing the cowling or a panel needs to be cowling and panels removed and installed. Cowl i n g and panel s , r e movi n g and i n st a l l i n g The cowling and panels shown above need to be removed to perform some of the maintenance jobs described in...
Page 45
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 1. Screw 1. Panel A 2. Screw EAU01145 To install the cowling EAU04003 Cowling A Place the cowling in the original posi- Panels A and B To remove the cowling tion, and then install the screw. To remove one of the panels Remove the screw, and then pull the Remove the screw, and then pull the...
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 1. Panel B 1. Spark plug cap 1. Spark plug wrench 2. Screw EAU01833 2. Remove spark plug Checking the spark plug shown, with the spark plug Spar k pl u g, checki n g The spark plug is an important wrench included in the owner’s engine component, which is easy to...
Page 47
Instead, 1. Measure the spark plug gap with 1/2 turn past finger tight. However, have a Yamaha dealer check the a wire thickness gauge and, if the spark plug should be tightened to motorcycle. necessary, adjust the gap to the specified torque as soon as pos- specification.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EAU04354 Engine oil and oil filter element Engi n e oi l and oi l f i l t e r el e ment The engine oil level should be checked before each ride. In addition, the oil must be changed and the oil filter element replaced at the intervals specified in the periodic maintenance...
Page 49
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EC000000 Do not operate the motorcycle until you know that the engine oil level is sufficient. EW000065 Never remove the engine oil tank 1. Drain bolt (oil tank) 1. Oil filter cover bolt (×2) cap after high-speed operation, 2.
Page 50
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR ECA00105 NOTE: Make sure that the O-ring is properly 8 In order to prevent clutch slip- seated. page (since the engine oil also lubricates the clutch), do not 9. Install the engine oil drain bolts, mix any chemical additives and then tighten them to the with the oil or use oils of grade...
1. Remove panel B. (See page 6-8 few minutes, immediately stop for panel removal and installation the engine and have a Yamaha procedures.) dealer check for the cause. If oil 2. Remove the air filter case cover...
Car b ur e t o r , adj u st i n g The carburetor is an important part of the engine and requires very sophisti- cated adjustment. Therefore, most carburetor adjustments should be left to a Yamaha dealer, who has the necessary professional knowledge experience. adjustment 1. Mesh side 1.
Engi n e i d l i n g speed The engine idling speed must be have a Yamaha dealer make the checked and, if necessary, adjusted adjustment. as follows at the intervals specified in the periodic maintenance and lubrica- tion chart.
To prevent regarding the specified tires. this from occurring, the valve clear- ance must be adjusted by a Yamaha Tire air pressure dealer at the intervals specified in the The tire air pressure should be a.
Page 55
(2.25 kgf/cm result in tire damage, loss of 1.50 bar) 2.25 bar) control, or severe injury. Make 176 kg (XT500E) sure that the total weight of Maximum load* 180 kg (XT600E) rider, passenger, cargo, and * Total weight of rider, passenger, cargo and...
Page 56
90/90-21 M/C 54S 90/90-21 54S if the sidewall is cracked, have a DUNLOP TRAIL MAX L 90/90-21 M/C 54S Yamaha dealer replace the tire imme- diately. REAR Manufacturer Size Type Minimum tire tread depth 1.6 mm...
EAU00681 EAU00685 8 Ride at moderate speeds after Spoke wheels changing a tire since the tire sur- Wheel s 8 Have a Yamaha dealer replace To maximize the performance, dura- face must first be “broken in” for excessively worn tires.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 7. Tighten the locknut at the clutch lever and the crankcase. 1. Locknut (clutch lever) 1. Locknut (crankcase) 2. Adjusting bolt 2. Adjusting nut c. Free play 3. If the specified clutch lever free EAU00694 play could obtained...
If there is air in the hydraulic sys- specified in the periodic maintenance and lubrication chart. tem, have a Yamaha dealer bleed the system before operating the motorcycle. Air in the hydraulic 1. Rear brake light switch system will diminish the braking 2.
If the brake level is low, be es the brake disc, have a Yamaha set. sure to check the brake pads for dealer replace the brake pads as a wear and the brake system for leak- set.
Changing the brake fluid fluid. Mixing fluids may result in a Br a ke f l u i d , changi n g Have a Yamaha dealer change the harmful chemical reaction and brake fluid at the intervals specified in...
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EAU00744 Drive chain slack Dr i v e chai n sl a ck The drive chain slack should be checked before each ride and adjust- ed if necessary. To check the drive chain slack Checki n g 1.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EAU03006 2. Wipe the drive chain dry. NOTE: Lubricating the drive chain 3. Thoroughly lubricate the drive Make sure that both adjusting plates Dr i v e chai n , l u br i c at i n g The drive chain must be cleaned and chain with a special O-ring chain are in the same position for proper...
Recommended lubricant: Recommended lubricant: EW000113 Lithium-soap-based grease Lithium-soap-based grease (all-purpose grease) (all-purpose grease) If the sidestand does not move up down smoothly, have Yamaha dealer check or repair it. Recommended lubricant: Lithium-soap-based grease (all-purpose grease) 6-28...
Recommended lubricant: rebounds smoothly. Molybdenum disulfide grease EC000098 If any damage is found or the front fork does not operate smoothly, have a Yamaha dealer check or repair it. 6-29...
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 8 8 KEEP THIS AND ALL BATTER- EAU00800 EW000116 Battery IES OUT OF THE REACH OF Bat t e r y 8 8 Electrolyte is poisonous and This motorcycle is equipped with a CHILDREN. sealed-type (MF) battery, which does dangerous since it contains not require any maintenance.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EC000102 To charge the battery Have a Yamaha dealer charge the 8 8 Always keep battery battery as soon as possible if it charged. Storing a discharged seems to have discharged. Keep in battery can cause permanent mind that the battery tends to dis- battery damage.
3. Disconnect the headlight coupler Headl i g ht bul b , r e pl a ci n g This motorcycle is equipped with a again, have a Yamaha dealer and the auxiliary light leads, and quartz bulb headlight. If the headlight check the electrical system.
Page 72
7. Install the headlight unit by installing the bolts. 8. Install the cowling. 9. Have a Yamaha dealer adjust the headlight beam if necessary. 1. Headlight bulb holder a. Do not touch this area. 4. Remove the headlight bulb hold- 5.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 1. Screw 1. Bulb 1. Screw (×2) 2. Lens 2. Lens 2. Remove the defective bulb by EAU03497 EAU01623 pushing it in and turning it coun- Replacing a turn signal light Replacing the tail/brake light terclockwise.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR EAU01579 To service the rear wheel Supporting the motorcycle Raise the rear wheel off the ground Suppor t i n g t h e mot o r c ycl e Since this model is not equipped with by using a motorcycle stand or, if a a centerstand, follow these precau- motorcycle stand is not available, by...
6-36. 8 It is advisable to have a 2. Lift the wheel up between the 4. Pull the wheel axle out, and then Yamaha dealer service the fork legs. remove the wheel. wheel. ECA00048...
Page 76
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR 7. After tightening the holder nuts, while applying the front brake, push down on the handlebars several times to check if the front fork compresses and rebounds smoothly. 8. Connect the speedometer cable. 1. Retainer 1.
4. Remove the swingarm end bolts. To remove the rear wheel EW000122 8 8 It is advisable to have a Yamaha dealer service the wheel. 8 Securely support the motorcy- cle so that there is no danger of it falling over.
Page 78
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIR ECA00048 EAU01136 To install the rear wheel I n st a l l Do not apply the brake after the 1. Install the drive chain onto the wheel has been removed together rear sprocket, and then insert the with the brake disc, otherwise the wheel axle from the left-hand brake pads will be forced shut.
Use only genuine Yamaha replace- ment parts. Imitation parts may look like Yamaha parts, but they are often inferior, have a shorter service life and can lead to expensive repair bills. 6-41...
2. Compression There is compression. Go to ignition check. Use electric starter. No compression. Ask a Yamaha dealer to inspect. 3. Ignition Wipe clean with dry cloth and Open throttle half-way and start the Wet. Remove spark correct spark gap or replace spark plug.
EAU03521 MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE Before cleaning Cleaning Care 1. Cover the muffler outlet with a ECA00010 Car e While the open design of a motorcy- plastic bag after the engine has cle reveals the attractiveness of the 8 8 Avoid using strong acidic...
Page 84
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE 8 8 Do not use any harsh chemical 8 8 For motorcycles equipped After riding in the rain, near the sea products on plastic parts. Be with a windshield: Do not use or on salt-sprayed roads sure to avoid using cloths or strong cleaners...
Page 85
8 Before operating the motorcy- removed through polishing.) NOTE: 4. To prevent corrosion, it is recom- cle test its braking perfor- Consult a Yamaha dealer for advice mance and cornering behav- mended to apply a corrosion pro- on what products to use. ior.
Page 86
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE Long-term c. Install the spark plug cap onto Storage St o r a ge Before storing your motorcycle for the spark plug, and then place Short-term several months: the spark plug on the cylinder Always store your motorcycle in a 1.
Page 87
MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE 6. Lubricate all control cables and 9. Remove the battery and fully the pivoting points of all levers charge it. Store it in a cool, dry and pedals as well as of the place and charge it once a sidestand/centerstand.
Page 89
Displacement 499 cm Capacity 595 cm Without oil filter element Bore × Stroke 87.0 × 84.0 mm (XT500E) replacement 2.7 L 95.0 × 84.0 mm (XT600E) With oil filter element Compression ratio 8.5:1 replaced 2.8 L...
Page 90
With tube Transmission Size 90/90-21 54S or Primary reduction system Spur gear 90/90-21 M/C 54S Primary reduction ratio 74/31 (2.387) (XT500E) Manufacturer/ BRIDGESTONE / TW47 71/34 (2.088) (XT600E) model DUNLOP / TRAIL MAX L Secondary reduction system Chain drive Rear Secondary reduction ratio 2.533 (XT500E)
Page 91
SPECIFICATIONS Air pressure (cold tire) Brakes up to 90 kg load* Front Front 150 kPa (1.50 kgf/cm , 1.50 bar) Type Single disc brake Rear 150 kPa (1.50 kgf/cm , 1.50 bar) Operation Right hand 90 kg load–Maximum Fluid DOT 4 load* Rear Front...
Page 92
SPECIFICATIONS Electrical Ignition system T.C.I. (Digital) Charging system Type A.C. magneto Standard output 14 V, 13.5A @ 5,000 rpm Battery Type YTX9-BS Voltage, capacity 12 V, 8 AH Headlight bulb type Halogen bulb Bulb voltage, wattage × quantity 12 V, 60/55W × 1 Headlight 12 V, 5/21W ×...
SPECIFICATIONS EAU03941 Conversion table CONVERSION TABLE Conver s i o n t a bl e Conver s i o n t a bl e All specification data in this manual are listed in SI and METRIC TO IMPERIAL Metric unit Multiplier Imperial unit METRIC UNITS.
CONSUMER INFORMATION Identification numbers ..............9-1 Key identification number ..............9-1 Vehicle identification number ............9-1 Model label ..................9-2...
Record the key identification number, vehicle identification number and model label information in the spaces provided below for assistance when ordering spare parts from a Yamaha dealer or for reference in case the vehicle is stolen. 1. Key identification number 1.
The model label is affixed to the frame under the seat. (See page 3-9 for seat removal and installation pro- cedures.) Record the information on this label in the space provided. This information will be needed when ordering spare parts from a Yamaha dealer.
Page 97
INDEX Indicator lights ........3-2 Air filter element, cleaning ....6-13 Engine break-in ........5-4 High beam indicator light ....3-2 Engine idling speed ......6-15 Neutral indicator light ......3-2 Engine oil and oil filter element ... 6-10 Turn signal indicator light ....3-2 Battery ..........
Page 98
INDEX Sidestand, checking and lubricating ..6-28 Spark plug, checking ......6-8 Specifications ........8-1 Speedometer unit ........3-2 Starter (choke) knob ......3-9 Starting the engine ........ 5-1 Steering, checking ....... 6-30 Storage ..........7-4 Supporting the motorcycle ....6-36 Tachometer ...........
Page 100
YAMAHA MOTOR CO., LTD. PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER PRINTED IN JAPAN 2001·7–0.9×1(E)