Yamaha Y15ZR - Maintenance guide

The Yamaha Y15ZR is undoubtedly a thumping great underbone. It has an impressively aggressive design and the performance to match it. This bad boy comes with LED lighting, an analog-digital combi dashboard, 5 speed transmission and dual disc brakes. Powering it is a fuel injected and water cooled 4 valved engine that makes 15.1 hp and 13.8 Nm of torque.

But all this oozing performance will be of no use if the bike is not reliable. Despite its styling and performance, it is still essentially a commuter motorcycle that will get used like one. Keeping it in its best shape then, is very necessary.

However, most of us like to keep our hands away from any of the greasy bits on our two wheelers. Some of us are too scared of fiddling around with our bikes, thinking we would break them. But in reality, a few simple things is all that is needed to keep your beloved Yamaha running like clockwork. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Starting the bike in the morning is the most damaging time for the engine. The engine is cold and the lubricant oil is no longer covering the engine components. The Yamaha Y15ZR, is not equipped with a kick starter. Nevertheless, start the engine using the electric starter. Use the choke if necessary. Don’t immediately start wringing the throttle and revving the engine, but instead let it idle for some time. This will ensure that the engine is well lubricated when you start moving.

While your bike is idling, check your tires for optimum pressure. This will not only prolong the life of your tires but also ensure that you get the best mileage. You should also check the condition of the tread and replace them every 10000 km or so.

For most people, servicing the bike equals changing the oil. But you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to change the oil of your bike on your own. There are many videos on YouTube that will give you a step by step guide to do the same. While changing the oil, make sure to thoroughly clean the oil filter using a tissue paper. Oil changes are recommended every 2000 km and the oil filter itself needs to be replaced every 4000 km.

Speaking of online resources, the Yamaha Y15ZR has a thriving customizing scene. This means that if you want to, you can change the look and the character of your bike yourself. Everything from electrical diagrams to ECU mappings can be found online and changed with a little patience and willingness to learn.
The air filter is one of the most abused parts of any motorcycle. Make sure that it is cleaned during servicing and is changed every 30000 km or so.

Check the chain regularly for proper tension. Especially after washing the bike and after you’ve driven it in the rain. Clean the chain using WD40 and then lube it using chain lube. In fact, it is often advised to lube the chain every week. If you are feeling even more adventurous, you can try to tighten a sagging chain by loosening the mounting bolt. All you need is a box spanner or ratchet.

 

Spark plugs are next on the list. Inspect the spark plug for carbon deposits after every 1000 km. There are many handy visual guides available online that will help you determine the state of your spark plug. Clean the spark plug using a toothbrush or replace it with a new one as per the need of the hour.

A common issue with the Y15ZR is the electrical system. Because of its complexity, there could be many culprits. Sometimes the stator coil is disconnected. Sometimes it has to do with the battery. Take your bike to a trusted mechanic when such problems start surfacing. Make sure that your battery gets a proper inspection every time the bike goes for servicing.

Another common issue is with the starter clutch, which is caused due to faulty bearings. Thankfully needle bearings used here are cheap and easy to replace. Always buy genuine replacement parts, as these pesky little problems if unchecked can lead to the whole crankcase breaking down.

Apart from these, due attention should also be given to brake fluid for the front disc brake. Ideally, you should replace it every 10000 km.

These tips are in no way meant to turn you into a veritable race technician. But taking care of your bike does not need you to be one. All it needs is some patience and attention.