1988 Yamaha Route 66 Owners Manual

The 1988 Yamaha Route 66 is a classic cruiser motorcycle featuring a 699cc V-twin engine, 5-speed transmission, shaft drive, and iconic cruiser styling. This manual covers essential information for proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Yamaha Route 66. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 699cc air-cooled V-twin engine, 5-speed constant mesh transmission, shaft final drive, dual seat, cruiser styling with teardrop tank.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	699cc air-cooled 4-stroke V-twin
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Fuel Capacity	3.7 gallons (14 liters)
Seat Height	28.3 inches (720mm)
Wheelbase	61.4 inches (1560mm)
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum
Weight	463 lbs (210 kg) wet
Color Options	Black, Maroon, Blue

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear and follow traffic laws.

Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Perform pre-ride inspection: tires, brakes, lights, controls, fluid levels.
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.
Allow only licensed, trained riders to operate motorcycle.

WARNING! Motorcycle operation involves risk. Always ride defensively and within your skill limits. Check local laws for helmet and safety requirements.

Controls and Instruments

Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.

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

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

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

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

Specifications

Engine: 699cc air-cooled 4-stroke V-twin, SOHC
Bore x Stroke: 80.0 x 69.6mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Fuel System: Mikuni BS34SS carburetors
Ignition System: CDI electronic ignition
Starting System: Electric starter
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Front: Telescopic fork
Suspension Rear: Dual shocks, adjustable preload
Brakes Front: Single disc, 2-piston caliper
Brakes Rear: Drum
Tires Front: 100/90-19
Tires Rear: 130/90-16

Operation Instructions

Starting and riding procedures for safe operation.

Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, controls, lights, oil level, fuel.
Starting: Turn fuel valve ON, ensure transmission in NEUTRAL, turn ignition ON, pull choke (cold engine), press starter button.
Riding: Release choke as engine warms. Use clutch smoothly when shifting gears.
Shifting pattern: 1-N-2-3-4-5 (N = neutral, green indicator light)
Braking: Use both brakes together for maximum stopping power.

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before riding. Never operate with choke on for extended periods.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Item	Every 600 mi	Every 4000 mi	Every 8000 mi
Engine oil	Replace	Replace	Replace
Oil filter	-	Replace	Replace
Air filter	Check	Clean/Replace	Clean/Replace
Spark plugs	Check	Replace	Replace
Brake fluid	Check	Replace	Replace
Drive shaft oil	-	Replace	Replace
Tire pressure	Check	Check	Check
Chain adjustment	Check	Check	Check

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Essential maintenance tasks for proper motorcycle care.

Engine oil change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40 motorcycle oil (2.7 quarts).
Air filter cleaning: Remove filter, clean with solvent, oil lightly, reinstall.
Tire inspection: Check pressure (front 28 psi, rear 32 psi), inspect for wear/damage.
Brake adjustment: Check brake pad wear, adjust rear brake pedal free play.
Battery maintenance: Check electrolyte level, clean terminals, ensure secure connections.

Tip: Use only Yamaha genuine parts or equivalents for optimal performance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures for extended non-use periods.

Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine for 5 minutes, turn fuel valve OFF.
Battery: Remove battery, store in cool dry place, charge monthly.
Tires: Inflate to recommended pressure, elevate motorcycle if storing long-term.
Cleaning: Wash and dry thoroughly, apply wax to painted surfaces.
Cover: Use breathable motorcycle cover in dry, well-ventilated area.

WARNING! Store in well-ventilated area away from open flames or sparks.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel valve ON, choke operation, spark plug condition, battery charge.
Poor performance	Fuel/Air system	Clean air filter, check carburetor settings, inspect fuel lines.
Electrical issues	Battery/connections	Check battery voltage, clean terminals, inspect fuses.
Braking problems	Pads/fluid	Inspect brake pads for wear, check brake fluid level, bleed if necessary.
Unusual noises	Mechanical issues	Check chain tension, inspect bearings, verify proper lubrication.

Service: Contact authorized Yamaha dealer for complex repairs.

Warranty Information

Yamaha Motor Corporation provides limited warranty coverage. Original warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims. For warranty service, contact authorized Yamaha dealer with proof of purchase and maintenance records.

Support: Contact Yamaha Customer Relations at 1-800-962-7926 or visit www.yamaha-motor.com