1988 Honda Super Magna Manual

The 1988 Honda Super Magna is a V4-powered cruiser motorcycle featuring a 748cc liquid-cooled engine, shaft drive, unique V-shaped frame design, dual exhaust system, and distinctive styling with a teardrop fuel tank. This manual covers safety information, technical specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidelines for proper ownership and maintenance of your 1988 Honda Super Magna.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Technical Specifications 4. Controls and Instruments 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Basic Operations 7. Troubleshooting 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Contact Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 748cc V4 engine, shaft final drive, dual exhaust system, teardrop fuel tank, digital instrumentation, hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	748cc liquid-cooled 90° V4
Bore x Stroke	70.0mm x 48.6mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Fuel System	Four 32mm constant velocity carburetors
Ignition System	Computer-controlled digital with electronic advance
Transmission	6-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Front Suspension	39mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension	Dual shocks with 5-way adjustable preload
Front Brake	Dual hydraulic disc

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow traffic laws.

Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels before each ride.
Protective gear: Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Rider training: Complete motorcycle safety course for proper riding techniques.
Load limits: Do not exceed maximum weight capacity of 408 lbs (185 kg).

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

Technical Specifications

Engine: 748cc liquid-cooled 90° V4, DOHC
Power Output: 87 hp @ 9,500 rpm
Torque: 49 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm
Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gallons (16 liters)
Seat Height: 28.3 inches (720mm)
Wheelbase: 63.0 inches (1,600mm)
Dry Weight: 518 lbs (235 kg)
Front Tire: 110/90-17
Rear Tire: 140/90-15
Brakes: Dual disc front, single disc rear

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls: Right side - engine stop switch, start button, front brake lever. Left side - clutch lever, turn signals, horn, high/low beam.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators, oil pressure warning light.

Maintenance indicators: Oil change interval, tire pressure monitoring, chain adjustment (where applicable). Fuel system: Reserve fuel position on petcock - switch to RES when main fuel supply depleted.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Engine oil change: Every 4,000 miles or 6 months
Oil filter replacement: Every other oil change
Air filter cleaning: Every 8,000 miles
Spark plug replacement: Every 16,000 miles
Brake fluid change: Every 2 years
Coolant replacement: Every 2 years
Valve clearance check: Every 16,000 miles

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

Basic Operations

Starting procedure, riding techniques, and shutdown process.

Pre-start check: Verify fuel level, neutral position, side stand up.
Starting: Turn ignition on, pull choke (cold engine), press starter button.
Warm-up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature before riding.
Shifting: Use clutch smoothly, shift through 6-speed transmission.
Braking: Apply both brakes simultaneously for maximum stopping power.
Shutdown: Turn fuel petcock to OFF, run engine until fuel lines empty.

WARNING! Always use both brakes for controlled stopping. Practice emergency braking in safe area.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plugs, battery charge, kill switch position.
Poor idle	Carburetor sync, air filter	Clean air filter, synchronize carburetors, adjust idle speed.
Electrical issues	Battery, fuses, connections	Check battery voltage, inspect fuses, clean connections.
Brake problems	Fluid level, pad wear	Inspect brake pads, check fluid level, bleed system if spongy.
Transmission issues	Clutch adjustment, oil level	Adjust clutch cable, check transmission oil level.

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

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

Fuel stabilization: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Battery maintenance: Remove battery and store with trickle charger.
Tire care: Inflate to maximum pressure and 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.

Warranty Information

Original 1988 warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage limited warranty. Current status: All original warranties have expired. For historical reference only.

Contact Information

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., 1919 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90501-2746. For parts and service, contact authorized Honda dealerships. For historical documentation, visit Honda's online archives or motorcycle enthusiast forums specializing in vintage Honda motorcycles.