Page 20 of 74

SAFETY INFORMATION
2-4
2
Never install accessories that
would impair the performance of
your motorcycle. Carefully inspect
the accessory before using it to
make sure that it does not in any
way reduce ground clearance or
cornering clearance, limit suspen-
sion travel, steering travel or con-
trol operation.
Accessories fitted to the handle-
bar or the front fork area can
create instability due to improper
weight distribution. If accesso-
ries are added to the handlebar
or front fork area, they must be
as lightweight as possible and
should be kept to a minimum.
Bulky or large accessories may
seriously affect the stability of
the motorcycle. Wind may at-
tempt to lift the motorcycle, or
the motorcycle may become un-
stable in cross winds.
Certain accessories can dis-
place the operator from his or
her normal riding position. This
improper position limits the free-
dom of movement of the opera-tor and may limit control ability,
therefore, such accessories are
not recommended.
Use caution when adding electri-
cal accessories. If electrical acces-
sories exceed the capacity of the
motorcycle’s electrical system, an
electric failure could result, which
could cause a dangerous loss of
lights or engine power.
Aftermarket Tires and Rims
The tires and rims that came with your
motorcycle were designed to match the
performance capabilities and to provide
the best combination of handling, brak-
ing, and comfort. Other tires, rims, siz-
es, and combinations may not be
appropriate. Refer to page 7-13 for tire
specifications and more information on
replacing your tires.
Transporting the motorcycle
Be sure to observe following instruc-
tions before transporting the motorcy-
cle in another vehicle.
Remove all loose items from the
motorcycle.
Check that the fuel cock (if
equipped) is in the “OFF” position
and that there are no fuel leaks.
Point the front wheel straight
ahead on the trailer or in the truck
bed, and choke it in a rail to pre-
vent movement.
Shift the transmission in gear (for
models with a manual transmis-
sion).
Secure the motorcycle with tie-
downs or suitable straps that are
attached to solid parts of the mo-
torcycle, such as the frame or up-
per front fork triple clamp (and not,
for example, to rubber-mounted
handlebars or turn signals, or parts
that could break). Choose the lo-
cation for the straps carefully so
the straps will not rub against
painted surfaces during transport.
The suspension should be com-
pressed somewhat by the tie-
downs, if possible, so that the mo-
torcycle will not bounce excessive-
ly during transport.
U3RV8LE0.book Page 4 Tuesday, April 13, 2010 8:48 AM
Page 32 of 74

FOR YOUR SAFETY – PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
5-1
5
EAU15596
Inspect your vehicle each time you use it to make sure the vehicle is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection
and maintenance procedures and schedules described in the Owner’s Manual.
WARNING
EWA11151
Failure to inspect or maintain the vehicle properly increases the possibility of an accident or equipment damage.
Do not operate the vehicle if you find any problem. If a problem cannot be corrected by the procedures provided in
this manual, have the vehicle inspected by a Yamaha dealer.Before using this vehicle, check the following points:
ITEM CHECKS PAGE
FuelCheck fuel level in fuel tank.
Refuel if necessary.
Check fuel line for leakage.
Check the fuel tank breather/overflow hose for obstructions, cracks or damage,
and check the hose connection.4-3, 4-4
2-stroke engine oilCheck oil level in oil tank.
If necessary, add recommended oil to specified level.
Check vehicle for oil leakage.4-4
Transmission oilCheck oil level in transmission case.
If necessary, add recommended oil to specified level.7-8
Front brakeCheck operation.
Lubricate cable if necessary.
Check lever free play.
Adjust if necessary.7-14, 7-16
Rear brakeCheck operation.
Check pedal free play.
Adjust if necessary.7-15, 7-16
U3RV8LE0.book Page 1 Tuesday, April 13, 2010 8:48 AM
Page 34 of 74

OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING POINTS
6-1
6
EAU15951
Read the Owner’s Manual carefully to
become familiar with all controls. If
there is a control or function you do not
understand, ask your Yamaha dealer.
WARNING
EWA10271
Failure to familiarize yourself with
the controls can lead to loss of con-
trol, which could cause an accident
or injury.
EAU41156
Starting and warming up a
cold engine 1. Turn the fuel cock lever to “ON”.
2. Set the engine stop switch to
“RUN”.
3. Shift the transmission into the neu-
tral position.
WARNING
EWA14410
Be sure to shift the transmis-
sion into neutral before starting
the engine.
Never ride with the sidestand
down.
4. Turn the starter (choke) on and
completely close the throttle. (See
page 4-6.)
5. Start the engine by pushing the
kickstarter lever down.
6. After starting the engine, move the
starter (choke) back halfway.
NOTICE: For maximum engine
life, never accelerate hard when
the engine is cold!
[ECA11041]
7. When the engine is warm, turn the
starter (choke) off.
TIPThe engine is warm when it responds
quickly to the throttle with the starter
(choke) turned off.
U3RV8LE0.book Page 1 Tuesday, April 13, 2010 8:48 AM