1986 Suzuki 1400SV Manual

The 1986 Suzuki 1400SV is a powerful 1400cc V-twin motorcycle featuring advanced engineering for its time, with liquid cooling, shaft drive, electronic ignition, and comprehensive instrumentation. This manual covers all aspects of ownership including safety procedures, technical specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for the complete motorcycle system.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Technical Specifications 4. Controls and Instrumentation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine System 7. Fuel System 8. Electrical System 9. Brake System 10. Troubleshooting 11. Storage and Winterization

Features at a Glance

Key components: 1400cc V-twin engine, shaft final drive, comprehensive instrumentation, advanced suspension system.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	4-stroke, V-twin, liquid-cooled
Displacement	1400cc
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Ignition System	Electronic CDI
Brake System	Dual disc front, single disc rear
Suspension	Telescopic fork front, dual shocks rear
Fuel Capacity	5.0 gallons
Weight	650 lbs (wet)
Seat Height	29.5 inches
Instrumentation	Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear and follow safe riding practices.

Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, brakes, lights, controls before each ride.
Protective gear: Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Riding skills: Take approved motorcycle safety course and practice regularly.
Load limits: Do not exceed maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs.

WARNING! Motorcycle operation requires skill and attention. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 1400cc, 4-stroke, V-twin, liquid-cooled
Bore x Stroke: 94.0mm x 100.0mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Fuel System: Dual Mikuni carburetors
Ignition: Electronic CDI
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Shaft
Front Suspension: Telescopic fork, 5.9 inches travel
Rear Suspension: Dual shocks, adjustable preload
Brakes: Dual disc front (275mm), single disc rear (275mm)
Tires: Front 110/90-18, Rear 150/90-15

Controls and Instrumentation

Left handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signals, horn, high/low beam. Right handlebar: Front brake, starter, engine kill switch.

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer (0-140 mph), tachometer (0-8000 rpm), fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, neutral light, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators, oil pressure warning light.

Adjustments: Handlebar position, clutch and brake lever reach, mirror positioning, suspension preload.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check tire pressure, fuel level, lights, controls
Every 600 miles: Oil change, chain adjustment, brake inspection
Every 3000 miles: Air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement
Every 6000 miles: Valve clearance adjustment, brake fluid change
Every 12000 miles: Carburetor synchronization, fork oil change

Tip: Keep detailed maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Engine System

1400cc V-twin engine with liquid cooling and electronic ignition.

Oil Change: Use SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil, capacity 3.7 quarts with filter
Valve Adjustment: Intake 0.004-0.006 in, exhaust 0.006-0.008 in
Cooling System: Check coolant level regularly, replace every 2 years
Spark Plugs: NGK D8EA, gap 0.028-0.031 in
Compression Test: Should read 150-170 psi per cylinder

WARNING! Engine components become extremely hot during operation. Allow to cool before servicing.

Fuel System

Dual Mikuni carburetors with manual choke and vacuum petcock.

Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Carburetor Adjustment: Pilot screw 1.5 turns out from lightly seated
Fuel Filter: Replace annually or every 6000 miles
Choke Operation: Full choke for cold starts, reduce as engine warms
Fuel Line Inspection: Check for cracks or leaks regularly

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable. No smoking during fuel system service.

Electrical System

12-volt system with maintenance-free battery and electronic ignition.

Component	Specification
Battery	12V 14Ah maintenance-free
Alternator	Three-phase AC generator, 350W
Starter	Electric, 0.8 kW
Headlight	60/55W halogen
Fuses	Main 30A, Headlight 15A, Signal 10A

Brake System

Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear with dual-piston calipers.

Brake Fluid: DOT 4, change every 2 years
Pad Replacement: Replace when thickness less than 1mm
Rotor Inspection: Minimum thickness 4.0mm
Bleeding Procedure: Start with farthest caliper from master cylinder
Lever Adjustment: Set for 10-15mm free play

WARNING! Brake system failure can cause serious injury. Test brakes after service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel level, spark plugs, battery charge
Poor idle	Carburetor sync, vacuum leak	Synchronize carburetors, check intake boots
Electrical failure	Battery, fuses, connections	Test battery voltage, check all fuses and grounds
Brake drag	Stuck caliper, contaminated fluid	Clean caliper pistons, flush brake fluid
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat, radiator	Check coolant, test thermostat, clean radiator

Emergency: Carry basic tools and first aid kit when riding.

Storage and Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use periods.

Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes
Battery: Remove and store on maintenance charger
Tires: Inflate to maximum pressure and elevate off ground
Exterior: Wash and wax, apply protectant to rubber and plastic
Cover: Use breathable motorcycle cover in dry storage area

Service: Authorized Suzuki dealerships for warranty and major repairs.