
Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-17
6Tire inspection
The tires must be checked before each
ride. If the center tread depth reaches
the specified limit, if the tire has a nail
or glass fragments in it, or if the side-
wall is cracked, have a Yamaha dealer
replace the tire immediately.
TIPThe tire tread depth limits may differ
from country to country. Always com-
ply with the local regulations.
WARNING
EWA10472
Have a Yamaha dealer replace
excessively worn tires. Besides
being illegal, operating the vehi-
cle with excessively worn tires
decreases riding stability and
can lead to loss of control.
The replacement of all wheel
and brake-related parts, includ-
ing the tires, should be left to a
Yamaha dealer, who has the
necessary professional knowl-
edge and experience to do so.
Ride at moderate speeds after
changing a tire since the tire
surface must first be “broken
in” for it to develop its optimal
characteristics.
Tire information
This model is equipped with tubeless
tires and rubber tire air valves.
Tires age, even if they have not been
used or have only been used occasion-
ally. Cracking of the tread and sidewall
rubber, sometimes accompanied by
carcass deformation, is an evidence of
ageing. Old and aged tires shall be
checked by tire specialists to ascertain
their suitability for further use.
WARNING
EWA10482
The front and rear tires should
be of the same make and de-
sign, otherwise the handling
1. Tire sidewall
2. Tire tread depthMinimum tire tread depth (front and
rear):
1.6 mm (0.06 in)
1. Tire air valve
2. Tire air valve core
3. Tire air valve cap with seal
UB34E0E0.book Page 17 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-18
6 characteristics of the motorcy-
cle may be different, which
could lead to an accident.
Always make sure that the valve
caps are securely installed to
prevent air pressure leakage.
Use only the tire valves and
valve cores listed below to
avoid tire deflation during a
high-speed ride.
After extensive tests, only the tires list-
ed below have been approved for this
model by Yamaha.
WARNING
EWA10601
This motorcycle is fitted with super-
high-speed tires. Note the following
points in order to make the most ef-
ficient use of these tires.
Use only the specified replace-
ment tires. Other tires may run
the danger of bursting at super
high speeds.
Brand-new tires can have a rel-
atively poor grip on certain road
surfaces until they have been
“broken in”. Therefore, it is ad-
visable before doing any high-
speed riding to ride conserva-
tively for approximately 100 km
(60 mi) after installing a new tire.
The tires must be warmed up
before a high-speed run.
Always adjust the tire air pres-
sure according to the operating
conditions.
EAU21963
Cast wheelsTo maximize the performance, durabil-
ity, and safe operation of your vehicle,
note the following points regarding the
specified wheels.
The wheel rims should be
checked for cracks, bends, warp-
age or other damage before each
ride. If any damage is found, have
a Yamaha dealer replace the
wheel. Do not attempt even the
smallest repair to the wheel. A de-
formed or cracked wheel must be
replaced.
The wheel should be balanced
whenever either the tire or wheel
has been changed or replaced. An
unbalanced wheel can result in
poor performance, adverse han-
dling characteristics, and a short-
ened tire life.
Front tire:
Size:
120/70 R17M/C (58V)
Manufacturer/model:
PIRELLI/PHANTOM
SPORTSCOMP
Rear tire:
Size:
180/55 R17M/C (73V)
Manufacturer/model:
PIRELLI/PHANTOM
SPORTSCOMP
FRONT and REAR:
Tire air valve:
TR412
Valve core:
#9100 (original)
UB34E0E0.book Page 18 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-23
6
EAU22762
Drive chain slackThe drive chain slack should be
checked before each ride and adjusted
if necessary.
EAU60043
To check the drive chain slack
1. Place the motorcycle on the side-
stand.TIPWhen checking and adjusting the drive
chain slack, there should be no weight
on the motorcycle.2. Shift the transmission into the
neutral position.
3. Push down on the drive chain un-
der the end of the drive chain
guide with a force of 15 N (1.5 kgf,
3.0 lbf).
4. Measure distance A between the
drive chain guide and the center of
the chain as shown.5. If distance A is incorrect, adjust it
as follows.
EAU59920
To adjust the drive chain slack
Consult a Yamaha dealer before ad-
justing the drive chain slack.
1. Loosen the locknut at each end of
the swingarm, and then loosen the
axle nut.2. To tighten the drive chain, turn the
drive chain slack adjusting nut at
each end of the swingarm in direc-
tion (a). To loosen the drive chain,
turn the adjusting nut at each end
of the swingarm in direction (b),
and then push the rear wheel for-
ward. NOTICE: Improper drive
chain slack will overload the en-
gine as well as other vital parts
of the motorcycle and can lead
to chain slippage or breakage. If
distance A is more than 58.0
mm (2.28 in), the chain can dam-
age the frame, swingarm, and
other parts. To prevent this from
Distance A:
51.0–56.0 mm (2.01–2.20 in)
1. Drive chain guide
2. Drive chain slack
2
1
1. Axle nut
2. Locknut
2
1
UB34E0E0.book Page 23 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM
![YAMAHA XSR 700 2016 Owners Manual Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-24
6 occurring, keep the drive chain
slack within the specified limits.
[ECA23070]
TIPUsing the alignment marks on each
side of the swingarm, make sure that
both YAMAHA XSR 700 2016 Owners Manual Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-24
6 occurring, keep the drive chain
slack within the specified limits.
[ECA23070]
TIPUsing the alignment marks on each
side of the swingarm, make sure that
both](/manual-img/51/53040/w960_53040-70.png)
Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-24
6 occurring, keep the drive chain
slack within the specified limits.
[ECA23070]
TIPUsing the alignment marks on each
side of the swingarm, make sure that
both drive chain slack adjusting plates
are in the same position for proper
wheel alignment.
3. Tighten the axle nut, and then
tighten the locknuts to the speci-
fied torques.
4. Make sure that the drive chain
slack adjusting plates are in the
same position, the drive chain
slack is correct, and the drive
chain moves smoothly.
EAU23026
Cleaning and lubricating the
drive chainThe drive chain must be cleaned and
lubricated at the intervals specified in
the periodic maintenance and lubrica-
tion chart, otherwise it will quickly wear
out, especially when riding in dusty or
wet areas. Service the drive chain as
follows.NOTICE
ECA10584
The drive chain must be lubricated
after washing the motorcycle, riding
in the rain or riding in wet areas.1. Clean the drive chain with kero-
sene and a small soft brush.
NOTICE: To prevent damaging
the O-rings, do not clean the
drive chain with steam cleaners,
high-pressure washers or inap-
propriate solvents.
[ECA11122]
2. Wipe the drive chain dry.
3. Thoroughly lubricate the drive
chain with a special O-ring chain
lubricant. NOTICE: Do not use
engine oil or any other lubri-
cants for the drive chain, as they
1. Drive chain slack adjusting nut
1
(a)(b)
1. Alignment marks
2. Drive chain slack adjusting plate
Tightening torques:
Axle nut:
105 Nm (10.5 m·kgf, 76 ft·lbf)
Locknut:
16 Nm (1.6 m·kgf, 12 ft·lbf)
2
1
UB34E0E0.book Page 24 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-29
6
EAU23285
Checking the steeringWorn or loose steering bearings may
cause danger. Therefore, the operation
of the steering must be checked as fol-
lows at the intervals specified in the
periodic maintenance and lubrication
chart.
1. Raise the front wheel off the
ground. (See page 6-37.)
WARNING! To avoid injury, se-
curely support the vehicle so
there is no danger of it falling
over.
[EWA10752]
2. Hold the lower ends of the front
fork legs and try to move them for-
ward and backward. If any free
play can be felt, have a Yamaha
dealer check or repair the steer-
ing.
EAU23292
Checking the wheel bearingsThe front and rear wheel bearings must
be checked at the intervals specified in
the periodic maintenance and lubrica-
tion chart. If there is play in the wheel
hub or if the wheel does not turn
smoothly, have a Yamaha dealer
check the wheel bearings.
EAUM3750
BatteryThis model is equipped with a VRLA
(Valve Regulated Lead Acid) battery.
There is no need to check the electro-
lyte or to add distilled water. However,
the battery lead connections need to
be checked and, if necessary, tight-
ened.
WARNING
EWA10761
Electrolyte is poisonous and
dangerous since it contains sul-
furic acid, which causes severe
burns. Avoid any contact with
skin, eyes or clothing and al-
ways shield your eyes when
working near batteries. In case
of contact, administer the fol-
lowing FIRST AID.
EXTERNAL: Flush with plenty
of water.
INTERNAL: Drink large quan-
tities of water or milk and im-
mediately call a physician.
EYES: Flush with water for 15
minutes and seek prompt
medical attention.
ZAUM1353
UB34E0E0.book Page 29 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Periodic maintenance and adjustment
6-37
6
EAU24351
Supporting the motorcycleSince this model is not equipped with a
centerstand, follow these precautions
when removing the front and rear
wheel or performing other mainte-
nance requiring the motorcycle to
stand upright. Check that the motorcy-
cle is in a stable and level position be-
fore starting any maintenance. A
strong wooden box can be placed un-
der the engine for added stability.
To service the front wheel
1. Stabilize the rear of the motorcy-
cle by using a motorcycle stand
or, if an additional motorcycle
stand is not available, by placing a
jack under the frame in front of the
rear wheel.
2. Raise the front wheel off the
ground by using a motorcycle
stand.
To service the rear wheel
Raise the rear wheel off the ground by
using a motorcycle stand or, if a motor-
cycle stand is not available, by placinga jack either under each side of the
frame in front of the rear wheel or under
each side of the swingarm.
EAU25872
TroubleshootingAlthough Yamaha motorcycles receive
a thorough inspection before shipment
from the factory, trouble may occur
during operation. Any problem in the
fuel, compression, or ignition systems,
for example, can cause poor starting
and loss of power.
The following troubleshooting charts
represent quick and easy procedures
for checking these vital systems your-
self. However, should your motorcycle
require any repair, take it to a Yamaha
dealer, whose skilled technicians have
the necessary tools, experience, and
know-how to service the motorcycle
properly.
Use only genuine Yamaha replace-
ment parts. Imitation parts may look
like Yamaha parts, but they are often
inferior, have a shorter service life and
can lead to expensive repair bills.
WARNING
EWA15142
When checking the fuel system, do
not smoke, and make sure there are
no open flames or sparks in the ar-
ea, including pilot lights from water
UB34E0E0.book Page 37 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Motorcycle care and storage
7-1
7
EAU37834
Matte color cautionNOTICE
ECA15193
Some models are equipped with
matte colored finished parts. Be
sure to consult a Yamaha dealer for
advice on what products to use be-
fore cleaning the vehicle. Using a
brush, harsh chemical products or
cleaning compounds when cleaning
these parts will scratch or damage
their surface. Wax also should not
be applied to any matte colored fin-
ished parts.
EAU26015
CareWhile the open design of a motorcycle
reveals the attractiveness of the tech-
nology, it also makes it more vulnera-
ble. Rust and corrosion can develop
even if high-quality components are
used. A rusty exhaust pipe may go un-
noticed on a car, however, it detracts
from the overall appearance of a mo-
torcycle. Frequent and proper care
does not only comply with the terms of
the warranty, but it will also keep your
motorcycle looking good, extend its
life and optimize its performance.
Before cleaning
1. Cover the muffler outlet with a
plastic bag after the engine has
cooled down.
2. Make sure that all caps and cov-
ers as well as all electrical cou-
plers and connectors, including
the spark plug caps, are tightly in-
stalled.
3. Remove extremely stubborn dirt,
like oil burnt onto the crankcase,
with a degreasing agent and a
brush, but never apply such prod-ucts onto seals, gaskets, sprock-
ets, the drive chain and wheel
axles. Always rinse the dirt and
degreaser off with water.
Cleaning
NOTICE
ECA10773
Avoid using strong acidic wheel
cleaners, especially on spoked
wheels. If such products are
used on hard-to-remove dirt, do
not leave the cleaner on the af-
fected area any longer than in-
structed. Also, thoroughly rinse
the area off with water, immedi-
ately dry it, and then apply a cor-
rosion protection spray.
Improper cleaning can damage
plastic parts (such as cowlings,
panels, windshields, headlight
lenses, meter lenses, etc.) and
the mufflers. Use only a soft,
clean cloth or sponge with wa-
ter to clean plastic. However, if
the plastic parts cannot be thor-
oughly cleaned with water, di-
luted mild detergent with water
may be used. Be sure to rinse
UB34E0E0.book Page 1 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM

Motorcycle care and storage
7-2
7 off any detergent residue using
plenty of water, as it is harmful
to plastic parts.
Do not use any harsh chemical
products on plastic parts. Be
sure to avoid using cloths or
sponges which have been in
contact with strong or abrasive
cleaning products, solvent or
thinner, fuel (gasoline), rust re-
movers or inhibitors, brake fluid,
antifreeze or electrolyte.
Do not use high-pressure wash-
ers or steam-jet cleaners since
they cause water seepage and
deterioration in the following ar-
eas: seals (of wheel and swing-
arm bearings, fork and brakes),
electric components (couplers,
connectors, instruments,
switches and lights), breather
hoses and vents.
For motorcycles equipped with
a windshield: Do not use strong
cleaners or hard sponges as
they will cause dulling
or
scratching. Some cleaning
compounds for plastic may
leave scratches on the wind-shield. Test the product on a
small hidden part of the wind-
shield to make sure that it does
not leave any marks. If the wind-
shield is scratched, use a quality
plastic polishing compound af-
ter washing.
After normal useRemove dirt with warm water, a mild
detergent, and a soft, clean sponge,
and then rinse thoroughly with clean
water. Use a toothbrush or bottlebrush
for hard-to-reach areas. Stubborn dirt
and insects will come off more easily if
the area is covered with a wet cloth for
a few minutes before cleaning.
After riding in the rain, near the sea oron salt-sprayed roadsSince sea salt or salt sprayed on roads
during winter are extremely corrosive
in combination with water, carry out
the following steps after each ride in
the rain, near the sea or on salt-
sprayed roads.
TIPSalt sprayed on roads in the winter
may remain well into spring.1. Clean the motorcycle with cold
water and a mild detergent, after
the engine has cooled down.
NOTICE: Do not use warm wa-
ter since it increases the corro-
sive action of the salt.
[ECA10792]
2. Apply a corrosion protection spray
on all metal, including chrome-
and nickel-plated, surfaces to pre-
vent corrosion.
After cleaning
1. Dry the motorcycle with a chamois
or an absorbing cloth.
2. Immediately dry the drive chain
and lubricate it to prevent it from
rusting.
3. Use a chrome polish to shine
chrome, aluminum and stainless-
steel parts, including the exhaust
system. (Even the thermally in-
duced discoloring of stainless-
steel exhaust systems can be re-
moved through polishing.)
UB34E0E0.book Page 2 Friday, July 10, 2015 10:31 AM