1986 Yamaha Radian 600 Manual

The 1986 Yamaha Radian 600 is a sport-standard motorcycle featuring a 599cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four engine, 6-speed transmission, steel diamond frame, 35mm front forks, dual rear shocks, front disc and rear drum brakes, and a distinctive 80s sportbike styling. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Basic Maintenance Procedures 8. Troubleshooting 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: 599cc inline-four engine, 6-speed transmission, steel frame, telescopic front fork, dual rear shocks, front disc brake, rear drum brake.

Feature	Description
Engine	599cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four
Transmission	6-speed constant mesh
Frame	Steel diamond type
Front Suspension	Telescopic fork, 35mm tubes
Rear Suspension	Dual shocks, adjustable preload
Front Brake	Single disc, hydraulic
Rear Brake	Drum, mechanical
Fuel Capacity	3.7 gallons (14 liters)
Seat Height	30.7 inches (780mm)
Weight	432 lbs (196 kg) wet

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform pre-ride inspection before operating motorcycle.

Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for intended ride.
Inspect tires: Check pressure and condition for wear/damage.
Test brakes: Verify front and rear brake operation.
Check lights: Test headlight, brake light, turn signals.
Verify controls: Ensure throttle, clutch, brakes operate smoothly.

WARNING! Never operate motorcycle with mechanical issues. Address problems before riding.

Basic Operation

Starting and riding procedures for Yamaha Radian 600.

Starting: Turn ignition key ON, set choke for cold starts, pull clutch lever, press starter button.
Shifting: Use clutch lever to shift gears (1 down, 5 up pattern).
Braking: Apply both front and rear brakes for controlled stopping.
Turning: Use countersteering technique for smooth cornering.

CAUTION! Always wear proper protective gear including helmet, gloves, and protective clothing.

Specifications

Engine Type: 599cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC inline-four
Bore x Stroke: 58.5 x 55.7mm
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
Fuel System: Mikuni BS32SS carburetors (4)
Ignition: CDI electronic ignition
Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: #530 chain
Front Tire: 100/90-18
Rear Tire: 120/90-17
Wheelbase: 56.7 inches (1440mm)

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls and instrument panel functions.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signal switch, horn button, high/low beam switch.

Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, engine kill switch, starter button, throttle grip.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator.

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Service Item	Every 600 mi	Every 4000 mi	Every 8000 mi
Engine oil change	✓	✓	✓
Oil filter replacement		✓	✓
Air filter cleaning		✓	✓
Spark plug replacement			✓
Valve clearance check			✓
Chain adjustment	✓	✓	✓
Brake fluid change			✓

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Essential maintenance tasks for Yamaha Radian 600 owners.

Oil Change: Drain old oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40 motorcycle oil (3.2 quarts).
Chain Adjustment: Loosen axle nut, adjust chain slack to 1.2-1.6 inches.
Spark Plugs: Replace with NGK D8EA or equivalent, gap to 0.024-0.028 inches.
Tire Pressure: Maintain 28-32 psi front, 32-36 psi rear (check when cold).
Brake Inspection: Check pad wear, fluid level, and lever operation.

Tip: Always use genuine Yamaha parts or equivalent quality replacements.

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 or dirty carbs	Clean/sync carburetors, adjust idle speed
Hard shifting	Clutch adjustment or oil issue	Adjust clutch cable, change oil
Brake fade	Worn pads or contaminated fluid	Replace pads, flush brake fluid
Electrical issues	Battery or charging system	Test battery, check stator/regulator

Note: Complex repairs should be performed by qualified Yamaha technician.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures for seasonal or long-term storage.

Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine to circulate, or drain carbs completely.
Battery: Remove and store on maintenance charger, or disconnect negative terminal.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure, elevate off ground if possible.
Cleaning: Wash and wax motorcycle, apply protectant to rubber and plastic.

CAUTION! Store in dry, cool location away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Safety Information

Always follow these safety guidelines when operating your Yamaha Radian 600.

Always wear DOT-approved helmet and protective gear
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs
Follow all traffic laws and speed limits
Be visible to other motorists - use headlight at all times
Maintain safe following distance
Ride within your skill limits
Regularly inspect motorcycle before riding

Warranty & Support

Yamaha Motor Corporation limited warranty information and support contacts.

Limited warranty coverage for 12 months from purchase date with unlimited mileage. Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. Normal maintenance, adjustments, and wear items excluded. For warranty service, contact authorized Yamaha dealer.

Customer Support: Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
6555 Katella Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630
Phone: 1-800-962-7926
Website: www.yamahamotorsports.com