1986 Suzuki LT 125 Manual

The 1986 Suzuki LT 125 is a compact all-terrain vehicle featuring a 124cc two-stroke engine, automatic clutch, shaft drive system, front and rear suspension, electric start with backup recoil starter, front and rear racks, and full instrumentation. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Operation 8. Safety Features 10. Care & Storage 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 124cc two-stroke engine, automatic transmission, shaft drive, front and rear suspension, electric start, instrumentation panel.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	124cc, two-stroke, air-cooled
Transmission	Automatic clutch with 5-speed
Drive System	Shaft drive
Suspension	Telescopic front, swingarm rear
Starting System	Electric with backup recoil starter
Brakes	Drum brakes front and rear
Fuel Capacity	2.6 gallons
Load Capacity	Front: 22 lbs, Rear: 44 lbs
Tires	AT20 x 7-8 front, AT20 x 10-8 rear
Instrumentation	Speedometer, fuel gauge, neutral indicator

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble according to instructions.

Handlebar installation: Attach handlebars to steering stem, tighten bolts to specification.
Front wheel assembly: Install front wheel with axle and secure with nuts.
Battery connection: Connect positive then negative terminals, secure battery.
Fluid checks: Add engine oil and fuel as specified.

WARNING! ATV is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure all fasteners are properly tightened.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-ride inspection before starting engine.

Fuel system: Fill with fresh gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (20:1 ratio).
Starting procedure: Turn key ON, set choke, press start button or use recoil starter.
Warm-up: Allow engine to warm up for 2-3 minutes before riding.
Operation: Use throttle gradually, shift through gears smoothly.

CAUTION! Always wear helmet and protective gear. Never operate on public roads.

Specifications

Engine: 124cc two-stroke, air-cooled
Bore x Stroke: 54.0mm x 54.0mm
Compression Ratio: 6.7:1
Fuel System: Mikuni VM20SS carburetor
Transmission: 5-speed with automatic clutch
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Travel: Front: 4.3 in, Rear: 3.9 in
Brakes: Drum front and rear
Dimensions: 68.9" L x 39.4" W x 39.4" H
Dry Weight: 231 lbs

Controls and Instrumentation

Handlebar controls: Throttle, brake lever, ignition switch, light switch, start button.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, fuel gauge, neutral indicator, high beam indicator.

Operation: Throttle controls engine speed, brake lever for stopping, gear selector for shifting. Lights: Headlight, taillight operation via switch. Starting: Electric start primary, recoil backup.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check tire pressure, fuel level, brake operation.
Monthly: Change engine oil, inspect spark plug, check drive shaft.
Quarterly: Clean air filter, inspect brakes, check suspension.
Annually: Comprehensive inspection, lubrication of all points.

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Engine Operation

Two-stroke engine requires proper fuel mixture and operation.

Fuel mixture: 20:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil ratio.
Starting: Choke for cold starts, no choke when warm.
Warm-up: Allow 2-3 minutes before riding.
Shifting: Automatic clutch engages smoothly between gears.
Cooling: Air-cooled system requires clean fins and proper airflow.
Storage: Use fuel stabilizer for long-term storage.

WARNING! Never operate without proper oil mixture - engine damage will occur.

Safety Features

Neutral safety switch: Prevents starting in gear. Brake lights: Illuminate when brakes applied. Reflectors: Front, rear, and side for visibility.

Care & Storage

Clean after each use. Store in dry location. Use fuel stabilizer for storage over 30 days.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water spray on bearings or electrical components.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, compression	Check fuel mixture, spark plug, compression; use choke when cold.
Poor performance	Carburetor, air filter	Clean carburetor, replace air filter, check fuel mixture.
Hard shifting	Clutch adjustment	Adjust automatic clutch cable; check oil level.
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Check battery charge, clean connections, test fuses.
Brake problems	Adjustment, wear	Adjust brake cables; replace worn brake shoes.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset electrical system.

Service: Contact authorized Suzuki dealer for major repairs.