1987 Yamaha FZ700 Manual

The 1987 Yamaha FZ700 is a sport motorcycle featuring a 698cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC inline-four engine with 5 valves per cylinder, producing approximately 80 horsepower. It includes a 6-speed transmission, tubular steel diamond frame, 41mm front forks with anti-dive, Monocross rear suspension, dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake, and a dry weight of 198kg. 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 Instrumentation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Service 8. Chassis and Suspension 9. Storage and Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 698cc inline-four engine, 6-speed transmission, tubular steel frame, anti-dive front forks, Monocross rear suspension.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type698cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC inline-four
Valve System5 valves per cylinder (3 intake, 2 exhaust)
Transmission6-speed constant mesh
FrameTubular steel diamond type
Front Suspension41mm telescopic forks with anti-dive
Rear SuspensionMonocross swingarm
Front BrakesDual hydraulic disc, 267mm
Rear BrakeSingle hydraulic disc, 245mm
Fuel Capacity18 liters (4.8 gallons)
Dry Weight198kg (436 lbs)

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform pre-ride checks before operating motorcycle.

  1. Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for intended trip.
  2. Inspect tires: Check pressure and condition for wear/damage.
  3. Test brakes: Verify front and rear brake operation.
  4. Check lights: Test headlight, brake light, turn signals.
  5. Verify controls: Ensure throttle, clutch, and brake levers function properly.

WARNING! Never operate motorcycle with mechanical defects. Always wear proper protective gear.

Basic Operation

Starting and riding procedures for safe operation.

  1. Starting: Turn ignition key ON, ensure neutral light illuminated, pull choke if cold, press starter button.
  2. Shifting: Use clutch lever to disengage transmission, shift smoothly through 6-speed pattern.
  3. Braking: Apply both front and rear brakes simultaneously for maximum stopping power.
  4. Cornering: Look through turns, maintain smooth throttle control, use proper body positioning.

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before aggressive riding. Practice emergency braking in safe area.

Specifications

Controls and Instrumentation

Handlebar controls and instrument panel functions.

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

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signal switch, headlight dimmer, horn button.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator, oil pressure warning light.

Key Switches: Ignition switch, steering lock, fuel tank cap.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

  1. Every 600 miles/1,000 km: Check/adjust chain, check tire pressure, inspect brakes.
  2. Every 3,000 miles/5,000 km: Change engine oil and filter, check valve clearances.
  3. Every 6,000 miles/10,000 km: Clean/lube cables, check wheel bearings, inspect suspension.
  4. Every 12,000 miles/20,000 km: Replace spark plugs, check carburetor synchronization.

Tip: More frequent maintenance required for severe riding conditions.

Engine Service

Basic engine maintenance procedures.

  1. Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with recommended 10W-40 oil.
  2. Valve Clearance: Check/adjust when engine cold to specifications (intake: 0.10-0.15mm, exhaust: 0.15-0.20mm).
  3. Spark Plugs: Replace with NGK DR8ES-L, gap to 0.7-0.8mm.
  4. Carburetor Sync: Use vacuum gauges to balance carburetors for smooth operation.
  5. Cooling System: Check coolant level, inspect hoses for leaks/cracks.

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

Chassis and Suspension

Frame, suspension, and brake maintenance.

Front Suspension: Check fork oil level, inspect seals for leaks, adjust preload if equipped.

Rear Suspension: Check shock absorber operation, adjust preload for rider weight/load.

Brakes: Inspect pad thickness, check fluid level, bleed system if spongy, inspect rotors for wear.

Chain: Clean and lubricate regularly, adjust slack to 25-35mm, check sprockets for wear.

Storage and Care

Proper storage procedures for extended periods.

  1. Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine to circulate, or drain carburetors completely.
  2. Battery: Remove and store in cool, dry place, maintain charge with battery tender.
  3. Tires: Inflate to maximum pressure, store on stands to prevent flat spots.
  4. Cleaning: Wash and dry thoroughly, apply protective coating to chrome and painted surfaces.

CAUTION! Store in dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

Manufactured by Yamaha Motor Corporation. Meets applicable DOT and EPA standards for 1987 model year. Copyright © 1987 Yamaha Motor Corporation. For technical support or replacement parts, contact authorized Yamaha dealership or Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compression issueCheck fuel level, spark plugs, battery charge, choke operation.
Poor idle/rough runningCarburetor sync, dirty air filterSync carburetors, clean/replace air filter, check for vacuum leaks.
Hard shiftingChain tension, clutch adjustmentAdjust chain slack, check clutch cable free play, change transmission oil.
Brakes spongyAir in system, worn padsBleed brake system, inspect/replace brake pads.
OverheatingCoolant level, radiator blockageCheck coolant level, clean radiator fins, check thermostat operation.

Service: Contact authorized Yamaha dealership for complex repairs.

Parts: Use only genuine Yamaha replacement parts for optimal performance.

1987 Yamaha FZ700 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025