Honda XL125 (2014) User guide

Owner′s Manual
Warranty Booklet

This manual should be considered a permanent part of the motorcycle
and should remain with the motorcycle when it is resold.

This publication includes the latest production information available
before printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make
changes at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written
permission.

The vehicle pictured in this owner’s manual may not match your actual
vehicle.

© 2014 Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of a new
Honda motorcycle. Your selection of a
Honda makes you part of a worldwide family
of satisfied customers who appreciate
Honda’s reputation for building quality into
every product.

To ensure your safety and riding pleasure:

● Read this owner’s manual carefully.

● Follow all recommendations and

procedures contained in this manual.

● Pay close attention to safety messages

contained in this manual and on the
motorcycle.

● The following codes in this manual indicate

each country.

● The illustrations here in are based on the

XR150LEK SA type.

Country Codes

Code Country
XR125LEK

SA South Africa

XL125LEK

II SA South Africa

XR150LEK

SA South Africa
NZ Newzealand

Ukraine

*The specifications may vary with each locale.

A Few Words About Safety

3

DANGER

3

WARNING

3

CAUTION

NOTICE

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very
important. Operating this motorcycle safely is
an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about
safety, we have provided operating
procedures and other information on safety
labels and in this manual. This information
alerts you to potential hazards that could
hurt you or others.
Of course, it is not practical or possible to
warn you about all hazards associated with
operating or maintaining a motorcycle. You
must use your own good judgement.

You will find important safety information in
a variety of forms, including:

● Safety labels on the motorcycle

● Safety Messages preceded by a safety alert

symbol and one of three signal words:
DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.

Other important information is
provided under the following titles:

Information to help you avoid
damage to your motorcycle, other
property, or the environment.

Contents

Motorcycle Safety P. 2

Operation Guide P. 18

Maintenance P. 35

Troubleshooting P. 82

Information P. 97

Specifications P. 108

Index P. 111

Motorcycle Safety

This section contains important information for safe riding of your motorcycle.
Please read this section carefully.

Safety Guidelines .........................................P. 3

Image Labels.................................................P. 6

Safety Precautions .....................................P. 10

Riding Precautions .....................................P. 11

Accessories & Modifications......................P. 14

Off-Road Safety..........................................P. 15

Loading .......................................................P. 16

Safety Guidelines

Motorcycle Safety

Safety Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety:

● Perform all routine and regular inspections

specified in this manual.

● Stop the engine and keep sparks and flame

away before filling the fuel tank.

● Do not run the engine in enclosed or partly

enclosed areas. Carbon monoxide in exhaust
gases is toxic and can kill you.

Always Wear a Helmet

It’s a proven fact: helmets and protective
apparel significantly reduce the number and
severity of head and other injuries. So always
wear an approved motorcycle helmet and
protective apparel.

2 P. 10

Before Riding

Make sure that you are physically fit, mentally
focused and free of alcohol and drugs. Check

that you and your passenger are both wearing
an approved motorcycle helmet and protective
apparel. Instruct your passenger on holding
onto the grab rail or your waist, leaning with
you in turns, and keeping their feet on the
footpegs, even when the motorcycle is stopped.

Take Time to Learn & Practice

Even if you have ridden other motorcycles,
practice riding in a safe area to become familiar
with how this motorcycle works and handles,
and to become accustomed to the motorcycle’s
size and weight.

Ride Defensively

Always pay attention to other vehicles around
you, and do not assume that other drivers see
you. Be prepared to stop quickly or perform an
evasive maneuver.

continued

3

Safety Guidelines

Motorcycle Safety

Make Yourself Easy to See

Make yourself more visible, especially at night,
by wearing bright reflective clothing,
positioning yourself so other drivers can see
you, signaling before turning or changing lanes,
and using your horn when necessary.

Be Alert for Off-road Hazards

The terrain can be present a variety of
challenges when you ride off-road.
Continually “read” the terrain for unexpected
turns, drop-offs, rocks, ruts and other hazards.
Always keep your speed low enough to allow
time to see and react to hazards.

Ride within Your Limits

Never ride beyond your personal abilities or
faster than conditions warrant. Fatigue and
inattention can impair your ability to use good
judgement and ride safely.

4

Don’t Drink and Ride

Alcohol and riding don’t mix. Even one
alcoholic drink can reduce your ability to
respond to changing conditions, and your
reaction time gets worse with every additional
drink. Don’t drink and ride, and don’t let your
friends drink and ride either.

Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition

It’s important to keep your motorcycle properly
maintained and in safe riding condition.
Having a breakdown can be difficult, especially
if you are stranded off-road far from your base.
Inspect your motorcycle before every ride and
perform all recommended maintenance. Never
exceed load limits (
your motorcycle or install accessories that
would make your motorcycle unsafe (

2 P. 16), and do not modify

2 P. 14).

Safety Guidelines

Motorcycle Safety

3

WARNING

If You are Involved in a Crash Carbon Monoxide Hazard

Personal safety is your first priority. If you or
anyone else has been injured, take time to
assess the severity of the injuries and whether it
is safe to continue riding. Call for emergency
assistance if needed. Also follow applicable
laws and regulations if another person or
vehicle is involved in the crash.

If you decide to continue riding, first evaluate
the condition of your motorcycle. If the engine
is still running, turn it off. Inspect for fluid leaks,
check the tightness of critical nuts and bolts,
and check the handlebar, control levers, brakes,
and wheels. Ride slowly and cautiously.
Your motorcycle may have suffered damage
that is not immediately apparent. Have your
motorcycle thoroughly checked at a qualified
service facility as soon as possible.

Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide,
a colourless, odorless gas. Breathing carbon
monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and
may lead to death.

If you run the engine in confined or even partly
enclosed area, the air you breathe could contain
a dangerous amount of carbon monoxide.
Never run your motorcycle inside a garage or
other enclosure.

Carbon monoxide gas is toxic.
Breathing it can cause
unconsciousness and even kill you.

Avoid any areas or activities that
expose you to carbon monoxide.

5

Image Labels

Motorcycle Safety

Image Labels

The following pages describe the label
meanings. Some labels warn you of
potential hazards that could cause serious
injury. Others provide important safety
information. Read this information carefully
and don’t remove the labels.

If a label comes off or becomes hard to read,
contact your dealer for a replacement.

There is a specific symbol on each label.
The meanings of each symbol and label are
as follows.

6

Read instructions contained in Owner’s
Manual carefully.

Read instructions contained in Shop
Manual carefully. In the interest of safety,
take the motorcycle to be serviced only by
your dealer.

DANGER (with RED background)

You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if
you don’t follow instructions.

WARNING (with ORANGE background)

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if
you don’t follow instructions.

CAUTION (with YELLOW background)

You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.

Image Labels

Motorcycle Safety

BATTERY LABEL
DANGER

• Keep flame and spark away from the battery.
Battery produce explosive gas that can cause
explosion.

• Wear the eye protection and rubber gloves when
handling the battery, or you can get burned or
lose your eyesight by the battery electrolyte.

• Do not allow children and other people to touch
a battery unless they understand proper handling
and hazards of the battery very well.

• Handle the battery electrolyte with extreme care
as it contains dilute sulfuric acid. Contact with
your skin or eyes can burn you or cause loss of
your eyesight.

• Read this manual carefully and understand it
before handling the battery. Neglect of the
instructions can cause personal injury and
damage to the motorcycle.

• Do not use a battery with the electrolyte at or
below the lower level mark. It can explode
causing serious injury.

continued

7

Image Labels

Motorcycle Safety

XL125LEK

XL125LEK

8

REAR CUSHION LABEL

GAS FILLED
Do not open. Do not heat.

TYRE INFORMATION LABEL

Cold tyre pressure:
[Driver only]

Front 150 kPa (1.50 kgf/cm2, 22 psi)
Rear 150 kPa (1.50 kgf/cm2, 22 psi)

[Driver and passenger]

Front 150 kPa (1.50 kgf/cm2, 22 psi)
Rear 225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm2, 33 psi)

Tyre size:

Front 70/100-21M/C 44P
Rear 100/90-18M/C 56P

Tyre brand: CHENG-SHIN

Front CM-704
Rear CM-705

Image Labels

Motorcycle Safety

XL125LEK

XL125LEK

XL125LEK

SAFETY REMINDER LABEL

For your protection, always wear helmet, protective apparel.

FUEL LABEL

Unleaded petrol only

DRIVE CHAIN LABEL

Keep chain adjusted and lubricated.

20 to 30 mm (0.8 to 1.2 in) Freeplay

CARGO LIMIT LABEL
Do not exceed 5.0kg (11.0 lb)

9

Safety Precautions

Motorcycle Safety

3

WARNING

Safety Precautions

● Ride cautiously and keep your hands on the

handlebar and feet on the footpegs.

● Keep passenger’s hands on the grab rail or

your waist, passenger’s feet on the footpegs
while riding.

● Always consider the safety of your passenger,

as well as other drivers and riders.

Protective Apparel

Make sure that you and any passenger are
wearing an approved motorcycle helmet, eye
protection, and high-visibility protective
clothing. Ride defensively in response to
weather and road conditions.

Helmet

❙

Safety-standard certified, high-visibility, correct
size for your head.

● Must fit comfortably but securely, with the

chin strap fastened.

10

● Face shield with unobstructed field of vision

or other approved eye protection.

Not wearing a helmet increases the
chance of serious injury or death in a
crash.

Make sure that you and any passenger
always wear an approved helmet and
protective apparel.

Gloves

❙

Full-finger leather gloves with high abrasion
resistance.

Boots or Riding Shoes

❙

Sturdy boots with non-slip soles and ankle
protection.

Jacket and Trousers

❙

Protective, highly visible, long-sleeved jacket and
durable trousers for riding (or a protective suit).

Riding Precautions

Motorcycle Safety

Additional Off-road Gear

❙

On-road apparel may also be suitable for casual
off-road riding. But if you plan on any serious
off-road riding you will need more serious
off-road gear. In addition to your helmet and
eye protection, we recommend off-road
motorcycle boots and gloves, riding trousers
with knee and hip pads, a jersey with elbow
pads, and a chest/shoulder protector.

Riding Precautions

Running-in Period

During the first 500 km (300 miles) of running,
follow these guidelines to ensure your
motorcycle’s future reliability and performance.

● Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid

acceleration.

● Avoid hard braking and rapid down-shifts.

● Ride conservatively.

continued

11

Riding Precautions

Motorcycle Safety

Brakes

Observe the following guidelines:

● Avoid excessively hard braking and down-

shifts.

u Sudden braking can reduce the

motorcycle's stability.

u Where possible, reduce speed before

12

turning; otherwise you risk wheel sliding
out.

● Exercise caution on low traction surface.

u The tyres slip more easily on such surfaces

and braking distance are longer.

● Avoid continuous braking.

u Repeated braking, such as when

descending long, steep slopes can
seriously overheat the brakes, reducing
their effectiveness. Use engine braking
with intermittent use of the brakes to
reduce speed.

● For full braking effectiveness, operate both

the front and rear brakes together.

Engine Braking

❙

Engine braking helps slow your motorcycle
down when you release the throttle. For further
slowing action, downshift to a lower gear. Use
engine braking with intermittent use of the
brakes to reduce speed when descending long,
steep slopes.

Wet or Rainy Conditions

❙

Road surfaces are slippery when wet, and wet
brakes further reduce braking efficiency.
Exercise extra caution when braking in wet
conditions.
If the brakes get wet, apply the brakes while
riding at low speed to help them dry.

Parking

● Park on a firm, level surface.

● If you must park on a slight incline or loose

surface, park so that the motorcycle cannot
move or fall over.

Riding Precautions

Motorcycle Safety

● Make sure that high-temperature parts

cannot come into contact with flammable
materials.

● Do not touch the engine, muffler, brakes and

other high-temperature parts until they cool
down.

● To reduce the likelihood of theft, always lock

the handlebar and remove the key when
leaving the motorcycle unattended.
Use of an anti-theft device is also
recommended.

Parking with the Side Stand

❙

1.

Stop the engine.

2.

Push the side stand down.

3.

Slowly lean the motorcycle to the left until its

Refuelling and Fuel Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to protect the engine:

● Use only unleaded petrol.

● Use recommended octane number. Using

lower octane petrol will result in decreased
engine performance.

● Do not use fuels containing a high

concentration of alcohol.

● Do not use stale or contaminated petrol or an

oil/petrol mixture.

● Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.

2 P. 100

weight rests on the side stand.

4.

Turn the handlebar fully to the left.

u Turning the handlebar to the right reduces

stability and may cause the motorcycle to
fall.

5.

Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position
and remove the key.

2 P. 27

13

Accessories & Modifications

Motorcycle Safety

3

WARNING

Accessories &
Modifications

We strongly advise that you do not add any
accessories that were not specifically designed
for your motorcycle by Honda or make
modifications to your motorcycle from its
original design. Doing so can make it unsafe.
Modifying your motorcycle may also void your
warranty and make your motorcycle illegal to
operate on public roads and highways. Before
deciding to install accessories on your
motorcycle be certain the modification is safe
and legal.

14

Improper accessories or modifications
can cause a crash in which you can be
seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s
manual regarding accessories and
modifications.

Do not pull a trailer with, or attach a sidecar to,
your motorcycle. Your motorcycle was not
designed for these attachments, and their use
can seriously impair your motorcycle’s handling.

Off-Road Safety

Motorcycle Safety

Off-Road Safety

Learn to ride in an uncongested off-road area
free of obstacles before venturing onto
unfamiliar terrain.

● Always obey local off-road riding laws and

● Muffler is required in most off-road areas.

Don’t modify your exhaust system.
Remember that excessive noise bothers
everyone and creates a bad image for
motorcycling.

regulations.

● Obtain permission to ride on private property.

Avoid posted areas and obey “NO
Trespassing” signs.

● Ride with a friend on another motorcycle so

that you can assist each other in case of
trouble.

● Familiarity with your motorcycle is critically

important should a problem occur far from
help.

● Never ride beyond your ability and experience

or faster than conditions warrant.

● If you are not familiar with the terrain, ride

cautiously. Hidden rocks, holes, or ravines
could spell disaster.

15

Loading

Motorcycle Safety

3

WARNING

Loading

● Carrying extra weight affects your

motorcycle’s handling, braking and stability.
Always ride at a safe speed for the load you
are carrying.

● Avoid carrying an excessive load and keep

within specified load limits.

2 Maximum weight capacity/Maximum

weight on rear carrier P. 108

● Tie all luggage securely, evenly balanced and

close to the centre of the motorcycle.

● Do not place objects near the lights or the

muffler.

16

Also follow these guidelines when you ride
off-road on rough terrain:

● Do not carry a passenger.

● Keep cargo small and light weight.

2 Maximum weight on rear carrier P. 108

Make sure it cannot easily be caught on brush
or other objects, and that it does not interfere
with your ability to shift position to maintain
balance and stability.

Overloading or improper loading can
cause a crash and you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other
loading guidelines in this manual.

Motorcycle Safety

17

Operation Guide

Basic Operation Flow

❙

Pre-ride Inspection (P41)

Carefully inspect your motorcycle to
make sure that it is safe to ride.

❙

Acceleration

Apply throttle gradually.
Obey the speed limit.

How to use basic features.

• Instruments (P24)

•

Switches

(P26)

• Steering Lock (P27)

❙

Starting the Engine (P29)

Start and warm the engine.
Avoid revving the engine.

❙

Starting the
Motorcycle

Before pulling away, indicate
your direction with the turn
signal switch, and check for
oncoming traffic.

❙

Shift change (P31)

18

Operation Guide

❙

Braking

Close the throttle and apply the

front and rear brakes together.

u The brake lights will indicate that

you have applied the brakes.

❙

Parking (P12)

Park on a firm level surface.
Use the stand, and lock the
steering.

❙

Stopping

If pulling off the road, signal early
enough to show traffic that you are
pulling over, and pull over smoothly.

❙

Turning Corners

Do your braking
before entering
corners.

Gradually reapply throttle
when exiting turn.

❙

Refuelling (P32)

19

Operation Guide

Parts Location

XL125LEK

Front brake lever (P63)

Throttle grip (P79)

Engine oil fill cap/dipstick (P58)

Seat (P53)

Fuel fill cap (P32)

Kickstarter (P29)

Rear brake pedal (P65)

Spark plug (P56)

Headlight (P81)

20

Operation Guide

Battery (P55)

Side stand (P70)

Fuel valve (P28)

Clutch lever (P76)

Crankcase breather (P80)

Drive chain (P72)

Engine oil drain bolt (P59)

Fuse box (P95)

Choke lever (P29)

Shift lever (P31)

Helmet holder (P34)

Main fuse (P96)

continued

21

Parts Location (Continued)

Operation Guide

Except XL125LEK

Front brake fluid reservoir (P61)

Throttle grip (P79)

Engine oil fill cap/dipstick (P58)

Seat (P53)

Fuel fill cap (P32)

Kickstarter (P29)

Rear brake pedal (P65)

Spark plug (P56)

Headlight (P81)

22

Operation Guide

Battery (P55)

Side stand (P70)

Fuel valve (P28)

Clutch lever (P76)

Crankcase breather (P80)

Drive chain (P72)

Engine oil drain bolt (P59)

Fuse box (P95)

Choke lever (P29)

Shift lever (P31)

Helmet holder (P34)

Main fuse (P96)

23

Operation Guide

Instruments/Indicators

Tripmeter

Distance ridden since tripmeter was reset.

Speedometer

This shows your speed in kilometer per hour (km/h).

Odometer

Total distance ridden.

High beam indicator

Neutral indicator

Comes on when the transmission is in Neutral.

Turn signal indicator

24

Operation Guide

Tripmeter reset knob

The tripmeter reset knob is used to reset the tripmeter to
zero (0) by turning the knob in the direction shown in the
illustration.

25

Operation Guide

Switches

Horn button

Turn signal switch

u Pressing the switch turns the turn signal off.

Headlight dimmer switch

• : High beam

• : Low beam

Start button

26

Operation Guide

Ignition Switch

Switches the electrical system on/off, locks the
steering.

u Key can be removed when in the OFF or LOCK

position.

ON

Turns electrical system on for
starting/riding.

OFF

Turns engine off.

LOCK

Locks steering.

Push

Ignition key

!a

!b

Turn

Steering Lock

Lock the steering when parking to help
prevent theft.
A U-shaped wheel lock or similar device is
also recommended.

Locking

❙

!a Turn the handlebar all the way to the left.
!b Push the key down, and turn the ignition

switch to the LOCK position.

u Jiggle the handlebar if the lock is difficult

to engage.

!c Remove the key.

Unlocking

❙

Insert the key and turn the ignition switch to
the OFF position.

27

Operation Guide

Fuel Valve

The three-way fuel valve is used to control the flow of fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor.

ON: normal position for riding.

OFF: for parking, storing, or transportation.

RES:

ON OFF RES

for extra fuel to get to a gas station for
refuelling.

28

Operation Guide

Starting the Engine

!b

!f

!d

!e

!g

!h

!a

!c

!e

NOTICE

N

XR150LEK-NZ type

Start your engine using the following
procedure, regardless of whether the engine
is cold or warm.

To restart a warm engine, follow the
procedure for “Warm Engine.”

• Extended fast idling and revving the engine can

damage the engine, and the exhaust system.

Your motorcycle’s carburetor is equipped
with a heater.
Your carburetor is suitable for use in cold
regions.

Cold Engine:

!a The fuel valve is ON.
!b Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
!c Shift the transmission to Neutral (

indicator comes on).

Alternatively, pull in the clutch lever to start
your motorcycle with the transmission in
gear so long as the side stand is raised.

continued

29

Starting the Engine (Continued)

Operation Guide

!d Pull the choke lever up all the way to fully

on.

!e Using the start button

With the throttle 1/8 to 1/4 open, press the
start button.

Using the kickstarter

Lightly depress the kickstarter until
resistance is felt. Then let kickstarter return
to the top of its stroke.
With the throttle 1/8 to 1/4 open, operate
the kickstarter. Kick from the top of the
stroke through to the bottom with a rapid,
continuous motion.

Immediately after the engine starts, push the

!f

choke lever down to the halfway position.

!g Warm up the engine by opening and closing

the throttle slightly.

!h Continue warming up the engine until it

runs smoothly and responds to the throttle,
when the choke lever is at fully OFF.

30

Warm Engine:

!a Do not use the choke.
!b Start the engine following step 1-3 and 5

under “Cold Engine”.

If the engine does not start:

!a Turn off the ignition switch.
!b Push the choke lever down all the way to

fully off.

!c Open the throttle fully.
!d Crank the engine several times with the

kickstarter.

!e Follow steps 1-2 under “Warm Engine”.

If Engine Will Not Start (P83)

❙

Operation Guide

Shifting Gears

XR150LEK-NZ type

Your motorcycle transmission has five
forward gears in a one-down, four-up shift
pattern.

If you put the motorcycle in gear with the
side stand down, the engine will shut off.

31

Operation Guide

Refuelling

Fuel fill cap

Ignition key

Lock cover

Lower edge of
the filler neck

3

WARNING

Do not fill with fuel above the lower edge of
the filler neck.

Fuel type: Unleaded petrol only
Fuel octane number: Your motorcycle is

designed to use Research Octane Number
(RON) 91 or higher.
Tank capacity: 12.0 litres (3.17 US gal, 2.64
Imp gal)
Reserve capacity: 3.5 litres (0.92 US gal,

0.77 Imp gal)

32

Refuelling and Fuel Guidelines (P13)

❙

Opening the Fuel Fill Cap

Open the lock cover, insert the ignition key,
and turn it clockwise to open the fuel fill cap.

Closing the Fuel Fill Cap

!a After refuelling, push the fuel fill cap closed

until it locks.

!b Remove the key and close the lock cover.

u The key cannot be removed if the fuel fill

cap is not locked.

Petrol is highly flammable and
explosive. You can be burned or
seriously injured when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine, and keep heat,
sparks, and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.

• Wipe up spills immediately.

Operation Guide

Storage Equipment

Document bag

Rear carrier

Never exceed the maximum weight limit.

Maximum Weight: 5.0 kg (11.0 lb)

Tool kit

Ignition key

Tool box

Document bag is located under the seat.
Tool kit is in the tool box behind the left side
cover.

Removing the Seat (P53)

❙

u Insert the ignition key and turn it

counterclockwise to unlock.

continued

33

Storage Equipment (Continued)

Operation Guide

Holder pin

Helmet holder

Ignition key

3

WARNING

Helmet holder is located below the left side
cover.

u Use the helmet holder only when parked.

Riding with a helmet attached to the
holder can interfere with the rear
wheel or suspension and could cause a
crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Use the helmet holder only while
parked. Do not ride with a helmet
secured by the holder.

Unlocking

❙

Insert the ignition key and turn it
counterclockwise.

Locking

❙

!a Hang your helmet on the holder pin and

push it in to lock.

!b Remove the ignition key.

34

Maintenance

Please read “Importance of Maintenance” and “Maintenance Fundamentals” carefully

before attempting any maintenance. Refer to “Specifications” for service data.

Importance of Maintenance ..................... P. 36

Maintenance Schedule .............................. P. 37

Maintenance Fundamentals ..................... P. 41

Tool kit ....................................................... P. 52

Removing & Installing Body Components

Seat .......................................................... P. 53

Side Cover ................................................P. 54

Battery...................................................... P. 55

Spark Plug ..................................................P. 56

Engine Oil................................................... P. 58

Brakes ......................................................... P. 61

Side Stand .................................................. P. 70

....

P. 53

Drive Chain .................................................P. 72

Clutch .......................................................... P. 76

Throttle .......................................................P. 79

Crankcase Breather ....................................P. 80

Other Adjustments ....................................P. 81

Headlight Aim ...........................................P. 81

Maintenance

Importance of Maintenance

3

WARNING

Importance of Maintenance

Keeping your motorcycle well-maintained is
absolutely essential to your safety and to
protect your investment, obtain maximum
performance, avoid breakdowns, and reduce air
pollution. Maintenance is the owner’s
responsibility. Be sure to inspect your
motorcycle before each ride, perform the
periodic checks specified in the Maintenance
Schedule.

Improperly maintaining your
motorcycle or failing to correct a
problem before you ride can cause a
crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and
maintenance recommendations and
schedules in this owner’s manual.

36

2 P. 37

Maintenance Safety

Always read the maintenance instructions
before you begin each task, and make sure that
you have the tools, parts, and skills required.
We cannot warn you of every conceivable
hazard that can arise in performing
maintenance. Only you can decide whether or
not you should perform a given task.

Follow these guidelines when performing
maintenance.

● Stop the engine and remove the key.

● Place your motorcycle on a firm, level surface

using the side stand or a maintenance stand
to provide support.

● Allow the engine, muffler, brakes, and other

high-temperature parts to cool before
servicing as you can get burned.

● Run the engine only when instructed, and do

so in a well-ventilated area.

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

The maintenance schedule specifies the
maintenance requirements necessary to
ensure safe, dependable performance, and
proper emission control.

Maintenance work should be performed in
accordance with Honda’s standards and
specifications by properly trained and
equipped technicians. Your dealer meets all
of these requirements. Keep an accurate
record of maintenance to help ensure that
your motorcycle is properly maintained.
Make sure that whomever performs the
maintenance completes this record.

All scheduled maintenance is considered a
normal owner operating cost and will be
charged for by your dealer. Retain all
receipts. If you sell the motorcycle, these
receipts should be transferred with the
motorcycle to the new owner.

Honda recommends that your dealer should
road test your motorcycle after each periodic
maintenance is carried out.

continued

37

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

I

I

I

I

I

I

R

Items

Check

× 1,000 km 1 4 8 12 16 20 24

2 P. 41

× 1,000 mi 0.6 2.5 5 7.5 10 12.5 15

Fuel Line –

Pre-ride

Odometer Reading*

I I I

1

I I I

Fuel Level –

Fuel Strainer Screen –

Throttle Operation 79

Air Cleaner*
(Except XR150LEK-NZ type)

Air Cleaner*2
(XR150LEK-NZ type Only)

Crankcase Breather*

2

3

Spark Plug 56

Valve Clearance –

Engine Oil*

4

I I I I

I

R

I I I I

R R R R R R R R

I I I

R R

R

I

I

R

I I

R

Engine Oil Strainer Screen –

Engine Oil Centrifugal Filter –

Maintenance Level

: Intermediate. We recommend service by your dealer, unless

you have the necessary tools and are mechanically skilled.
Procedures are provided in an official Honda Shop Manual.

: Technical. In the interest of safety, have your motorcycle

Maintenance Legend

: Inspect (clean, adjust, lubricate, or replace, if necessary)
:Replace
: Lubricate
:Clean

serviced by your dealer.

38

Annual

Check

Regular
Replace

Refer to

page

51

51

80

59

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

III

IIIII

I

IIIIIIIII

I

Engine Idle Speed –

Secondary Air Supply System*

Secondary Air Supply Pair Filter*

Drive Chain*

Drive Chain Slider 75

Brake Fluid*5 (Except XL125LEK) 2 Years 61

Brake Shoes Wear (XL125LEK Only) 68

Brake Shoes/Pads Wear
(Except XL125LEK)

Brake System 61

Brakelight Switch 69

Headlight Aim 81

Lights/Horn –

Clutch System 76

Notes:

*1 : At higher odometer reading, repeat at the frequency interval established here.
*2 : Service more frequently when riding in unusually wet or dusty areas.
*3 : Service more frequently when riding in rain or at full throttle.
*4 : Service more frequently when riding OFF-ROAD.
*5 : Replacement requires mechanical skill.

1

Annual

Check

Regular
Replace

Refer to

page

Items

Pre-ride

Check

× 1,000 km 1 4 8 12 16 20 24

2 P. 41

× 1,000 mi 0.6 2.5 5 7.5 10 12.5 15

Odometer Reading*

I I I I I I I I

2

5

4

I I

Every 1,000km(600mi): 72

R

3 Years –

–

I I I I I I I I

I I I I I I I I

I I I I I I I I

62, 68

I I I I I I I

I I I I I I I

I I I I I I I I I

continued

39

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance

IIIIIII

I

IIIIIII

I

III

Odometer Reading*

Items

Side Stand
(XR150LEK-NZ type Only)

Side Stand
(Except XR150LEK-NZ type)

Pre-ride

Check

× 1,000 km 1 4 8 12 16 20 24

2 P. 41

× 1,000 mi 0.6 2.5 5 7.5 10 12.5 15

Suspension –

Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners*

Wheels/Tyres*

Steering Head Bearings –

4

4

I I I I I I I I I

I I

I I I I

1

I I I I I I

40

Annual

Check

Regular
Replace

Refer to

page

70

70, 71

–

48

Maintenance

Maintenance Fundamentals

XL125LEK

Except XL125LEK

XR150LEK-NZ type

Pre-ride Inspection

To ensure safety, it is your responsibility to
perform a pre-ride inspection and make sure
that any problem you find is corrected. A pre­ride inspection is a must, not only for safety,
but because having a breakdown, or even a
flat tyre, can be a major inconvenience.

Check the following items before you get on
your motorcycle:

● Fuel level-Fill fuel tank when necessary.

2 P. 32

● Throttle-Check for smooth opening and

full closing in all steering positions.

● Engine oil level-Add engine oil if necessary.

Check for leaks. 2 P. 58

● Drive chain-Check condition and slack,

adjust and lubricate if necessary. 2 P. 72

2 P. 79

● Brakes-Check operation;

Front and Rear: check shoes wear (

2 P. 68)

and freeplay, adjust if necessary.

2 P. 63, 66

Front: check brake fluid level (2 P. 61) and
pads wear.

2 P. 62

Rear: check shoes wear (2 P. 68) and
freeplay, adjust if necessary. 2 P. 66

● Lights and horn-Check that lights,

indicators and horn function properly.

● Clutch-Check operation;

Adjust freeplay if necessary.

● Wheels and tyres-Check condition, air

2 P. 76

pressure and adjust if necessary. 2 P. 48

● Side stand ignition cut-off system −Check

for proper function. 2 P. 70

41

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

Colour label

3

WARNING

Replacing Parts

Always use Honda Genuine Parts or their
equivalents to ensure reliability and safety.
When ordering coloured components, specify
the model name, colour, and code mentioned
on the colour label. The colour label is attached
to the right side of the frame.

Installing non-Honda parts may make
your motorcycle unsafe and cause a
crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Always use Honda Genuine Parts or
equivalents that have been designed
and approved for your motorcycle.

42

Maintenance

Battery

NOTICE

3

WARNING

Your motorcycle has a maintenance-free type
battery. You do not have to check the battery
electrolyte level or add distilled water. Clean the
battery terminals if they become dirty or
corroded.
Do not remove the battery cap seals. There is no
need to remove the cap when charging.

Your battery is a maintenance-free type and can be
permanently damaged if the cap strip is removed.

Maintenance Fundamentals

The battery gives off explosive
hydrogen gas during normal
operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery
to explode with enough force to kill or
seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face
shield, or have a skilled mechanic do
the battery servicing.

Cleaning the Battery Terminals

❙

1.

Remove the battery. 2 P. 55

2.

If the terminals are starting to corrode and
are coated with a white substance, wash with
warm water and wipe clean.

continued

43

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

NOTICE

NOTICE

Blown fuse

3.

If the terminals are heavily corroded, clean
and polish the terminals with a wire brush or
sandpaper. Wear safety glasses.

4.

After cleaning, reinstall the battery.

The battery has a limited life span. Consult your
dealer about when you should replace the
battery. Always replace the battery with
another maintenance-free battery of the same
type.

Installing non-Honda electrical accessories can overload
the electrical system, discharging the battery and possibly
damaging the system.

44

Fuses

Fuses protect the electrical circuits on your
motorcycle. If something electrical on your
motorcycle stops working, check for and
replace any blown fuses.

Inspecting and Replacing Fuses

❙

Turn off the ignition switch to remove and
inspect fuses. If a fuse is blown, replace with a
fuse of the same rating. For fuse ratings, see
“Specifications.”

Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly
increases the chance of damage to the electrical system.

2 P. 95

2 P. 110

Maintenance

If a fuse fails repeatedly, you likely have an

Oil code

Oil classification

Not recommended Recommended

electrical fault. Have your motorcycle inspected
by your dealer.

Engine Oil

Engine oil consumption varies and oil quality
deteriorates according to riding conditions and
time elapsed.
Check the engine oil level regularly, and add the
recommended engine oil if necessary. Dirty oil
or old oil should be changed as soon as
possible.

Selecting the Engine Oil

❙

For recommended engine oil, see
“Specifications.”

2 P. 110

If you use non-Honda engine oil, check the label
to make sure that the oil satisfies all of the
following standards:

● JASO T 903 standard*

● SAE standard*

● API classification*

1

2

: 10W-30

3

: SG or higher

: MA

Maintenance Fundamentals

*1.

The JASO T 903 standard is an index for engine
oils for 4-stroke motorcycle engines. There are
two classes: MA and MB. For example, the
following label shows the MA classification.

*2.

The SAE standard grades oils by their viscosity.

*3.

The API classification specifies the quality and
performance rating of engine oils. Use SG or
higher oils, excluding oils marked as “Energy
Conserving” or ”Resource Conserving” on the
circular API service symbol.

45

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

NOTICE

Except XL125LEK

NOTICE

Normal

(GOOD)

Worn

(REPLACE)

Damaged

(REPLACE)

Brake Fluid

Do not add or replace brake fluid, except in an
emergency. Use only fresh brake fluid from a
sealed container. If you do add fluid, have the
brake system serviced by your dealer as soon as
possible.

Brake fluid can damage plastic and painted surfaces.
Wipe up spills immediately and wash thoroughly.

Recommended brake fluid:

Honda DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid or
equivalent

Drive Chain

The drive chain must be inspected and
lubricated regularly. Inspect the chain more
frequently if you often ride on bad roads, ride at
high speed, or ride with repeated fast
acceleration.

46

If the chain does not move smoothly, makes
strange noises, has damaged rollers or loose
pins or missing O-rings, or kinks, have the chain
inspected by your dealer.

Also inspect the front sprocket and rear wheel
sprocket. If either has worn or damaged teeth,
have the sprocket replaced by your dealer.

Use of a new chain with worn sprockets will cause rapid
chain wear.

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

Cleaning and Lubricating

❙

After inspecting the slack, clean the chain and
sprockets while rotating the rear wheel. Use a
dry cloth with chain cleaner designed
specifically for O-ring chains, or neutral
detergent. Use a soft brush if the chain is dirty.
After cleaning, wipe dry and lubricate with the
recommended lubricant. If not available, use
SAE 80 or 90 gear oil.

Recommended lubricant:

Drive chain lubricant designed
specifically for O-ring chains.
If not available, use SAE 80 or 90 gear oil

Do not use a steam cleaner, a high pressure
cleaner, a wire brush, volatile solvent such as
petrol and benzene, abrasive cleaner, chain
cleaner or lubricant NOT designed specifically
for O-ring chains as these can damage the
rubber O-ring seals.
Avoid getting lubricant on the brakes or tyres.
Avoid applying excess chain lubricant to prevent
spray onto your clothes and the motorcycle.

Crankcase Breather

Service more frequently when riding in rain,
at full throttle, or after the motorcycle is
washed or overturned. Service if the deposit
level can be seen in the transparent section
of the drain tube.
If the drain tube overflows, the air filter may
become contaminated with engine oil
causing poor engine performance.

2 P. 80

47

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

Tyres (Inspecting/Replacing)

Checking the Air Pressure

❙

Visually inspect your tyres and use an air
pressure gauge to measure the air pressure
before each off-road ride and whenever you
return to pavement after riding off-road. If you
only ride on pavement, check the pressure at
least once a month or any time you think the
tyres look low. Always check air pressure when
your tyres are cold.
If you decide to adjust the tyre pressure for a
particular off-road riding condition, make
changes a little at a time.

48

Inspecting for Damage

❙

Inspect the tyres for
cuts, slits, or cracks
that exposes fabric or
cords, or nails or other
foreign objects
embedded in the side
of the tyre or the
tread. Also inspect for
the bumps or bulges in the side walls of the
tyres.

Inspecting for Abnormal Wear

❙

Inspect the tyres for
signs of abnormal
wear on the contact
surface.

Maintenance

Inspecting Tread Depth

Wear indicator
location mark

3

WARNING

❙

Inspect the tread wear indicators. If they
become visible, replace the tyres immediately.
For safe riding, you should replace the tyres
when the minimum tread depth is reached.

Maintenance Fundamentals

Riding on tyres that are excessively
worn or improperly inflated can cause
a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s
manual regarding tyre inflation and
maintenance.

continued

49

Maintenance Fundamentals

Maintenance

3

WARNING

Have your tyres replaced by your dealer.
For recommended tyres, air pressure and
minimum tread depth, see “Specifications.”

2 P. 109

Follow these guidelines whenever you replace
tyres.

● Use the recommended tyres or equivalents of

the same size, construction, speed rating,
and load range.

● Remember to replace the inner tube

whenever you replace a tyre. The old tube
will probably be stretched, and it could fail if
installed in a new tyre.

50

Installing improper tyres on your
motorcycle can adversely affect
handling and stability, and can cause a
crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tyres
recommended in this owner’s manual.

Maintenance

Air Cleaner

This motorcycle is equipped with a viscous
type air cleaner element.
Air blow cleaning or any other cleaning can
degrade the viscous element performance
and cause the intake of dust.
Do not perform the maintenance.
Should be serviced by your dealer.

Maintenance Fundamentals

51

Maintenance

Tool kit

The tool kit is stored in the tool box. 2 P. 33

You can perform some roadside repairs,
minor adjustments and parts replacement
with the tools contained in the kit.

● Spark plug wrench

● 10 × 12 mm Open end wrench

● 14 × 17 mm Open end wrench

● No. 2 Phillips screwdriver

● No. 2 screwdriver

● Screwdriver grip

● Extension bar

● 24 mm Box end wrench

52

Maintenance

Removing & Installing Body Components

Collar

Bolt

Front hooks

Rear hook

Rear recess

Front recesses

Collar

Bolt

Seat

Seat

The seat must be removed to access the
owner's manual.

Removal

❙

1.

Remove both side covers. 2 P. 54

2.

Remove the bolts and collars.

3.

Pull the seat back and up.

Installation

❙

1.

Align the front recesses to the front hooks
and rear recess to the rear hook.

2.

Slide the seat into position.

3.

Install the collars and tighten the bolts
securely.

4.

Install both side covers.

53

Removing & Installing Body Components u Side Cover

Maintenance

Left side

Bolt

Grommets

Prong

Side cover

Prong

Collar

Side Cover

The left side cover must be removed for
battery and fuse maintenance.
The right and left side covers must be
removed for remove the seat.

54

The right and left side covers can be removed
in the same way.

Removal

❙

1.

Remove the bolt and collar.

2.

Remove the prongs from the grommets.

3.

Remove the side cover.

Installation

❙

Install the parts in the reverse order of
removal.

Maintenance

Battery

Positive terminal

Negative terminal

Battery
holder

Bolt

Collar

Battery

Removing & Installing Body Components u Battery

Removal

❙

Make sure the ignition switch is off.

1.

Remove the left side cover. 2 P. 54

2.

Remove the bolt and collar.

3.

Remove the battery holder.

4.

Disconnect the negative - terminal from
the battery.

5.

Disconnect the positive + terminal from
the battery.

6.

Remove the battery taking care not to
drop the terminal nuts.

Installation

❙

Install the parts in the reverse order of
removal. Always connect the positive +
terminal first. Make sure that bolts and nuts
are tight.
For proper handling of the battery, see
“Maintenance Fundamentals.”
“Battery Goes Dead.“

2 P. 91

2 P. 43

55

Maintenance

Spark Plug

NOTICE

Spark plug cap

Checking Spark Plug

For the recommended spark plug, see
“Specifications.” 2 P. 110

Use only the recommended type of spark
plug in the recommended heat range.

Using spark plugs with an improper heat range can cause
engine damage.

1.

Disconnect the spark plug cap from the
spark plug.

2.

56

Clean any dirt from around the spark plug
base.

3.

Remove the spark plug using the spark
plug wrench provided in the tool kit.

4.

Inspect the electrodes and centre
porcelain for deposits, erosion or carbon
fouling.

u If the erosion or deposit is heavy,

replace the plug.

u Clean a carbon or wet-fouled plug with

a plug cleaner, otherwise use a wire
brush.

Maintenance

5.

Side electrode

Spark plug gap

NOTICE

Check the spark plug gap using a wire­type feeler gauge.

u If adjustment is necessary, bend the

The gap should be:

6.

Make sure the plug washer is in good
condition.

7.

With the plug washer attached, thread
the spark plug in by hand to prevent
cross-threading.

side electrode carefully.

0.80 to 0.90 mm (0.031 to 0.035 in)

Spark Plug u Checking Spark Plug

8.

Tighten the spark plug:

● If the old plug is good:

1/8 turn after it seats.

● If installing a new plug, tighten it twice

to prevent loosening:
a) First, tighten the plug:

1/2 turn after it seats.
b)Then loosen the plug.
c) Next, tighten the plug again:

1/8 turn after it seats.

Improperly tightened spark plugs can damage the engine.
If a plug is too loose, a piston may be damaged. If a plug
is too tight, the threads may be damaged.

9.

Reinstall the spark plug cap. Take care
avoid pinching any cables or wires.

57

Maintenance

Engine Oil

Oil fill cap/dipstick

Upper level

Lower level

Checking the Engine Oil

1.

If the engine is cold, idle the engine for 3
to 5 minutes.

2.

Turn the ignition switch off, stop the
engine and wait 2 to 3 minutes.

3.

Place your motorcycle in an upright
position on a firm, level surface.

4.

Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe it
clean.

5.

Insert the oil fill cap/dipstick until it seats,
but don’t screw it in.
Check that the oil level is between the
upper and lower level marks in the oil fill
cap/dipstick.

6.

Securely install the oil fill cap/dipstick.

58

Maintenance

Adding Engine Oil

NOTICE

If the engine oil is below or near the lower
level mark, add the recommended engine oil.

2 P. 45

1.

2.

Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick. Add the
recommended oil until it reaches the
upper level mark.

u Place your motorcycle in an upright

position on a firm, level surface when
checking the oil level.

u Do not overfill above the upper level

mark.

u Make sure no foreign objects enter the

oil filler opening.

u Wipe up any spills immediately.

Securely reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick.

Engine Oil u Adding Engine Oil

Overfilling with oil or operating with insufficient oil can
cause damage to your engine. Do not mix different brands
and grades of oil. They may affect lubrication and clutch
operation.

For the recommended oil and oil selection
guidelines, see “Maintenance
Fundamentals.”

2 P. 45

Changing Engine Oil

Changing the oil requires special tools. We
recommend that you have your motorcycle
serviced by your dealer.

1.

Place your motorcycle on a firm, level
surface.

2.

If the engine is cold, idle the engine for 3
to 5 minutes.

continued

59

Engine Oil u Changing Engine Oil

Maintenance

Drain bolt

Sealing washer

3.

Turn the ignition switch off, stop the
engine and wait for 2 to 3 minutes.

4.

Place a drain pan under the drain bolt.

5.

Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick, drain bolt
and sealing washer to drain the oil.

u Discard the oil at an approved recycling

centre.

6.

Install a new sealing washer onto the
drain bolt. Tighten the drain bolt.

Torque: 30 N·m (3.1 kgf·m, 22 lbf·ft).

60

7.

Fill the crankcase with the recommended
oil (

2 P. 45) and install the oil fill cap/

dipstick.

Required oil

When changing oil:

1.0 litres (1.1 US qt, 0.9 Imp qt)

8.

Check the oil level. 2 P. 58

9.

Check that there are no oil leaks.

Maintenance

Brakes

Except XL125LEK

Front brake fluid
reservoir

LOWER level mark

Checking the Front Brake Fluid

1.

Place your motorcycle in an upright
position on a firm, level surface.

2.

Check that the brake fluid reservoir is
horizontal and that the fluid level is above
the LOWER level mark.

If the brake fluid level in the reservoir is
below the LOWER level mark or the brake
lever freeplay becomes excessive, inspect the
brake pads for wear. If the brake pads are
not worn, you most likely have a leak. Have
your motorcycle inspected by your dealer.

61

Brakes u Inspecting the Front Brake Pads

Maintenance

Except XL125LEK

Wear indicator

Disc

Wear indicator

Brake pad

Inspecting the Front Brake Pads

Check the condition of the brake pad wear
indicators.
The pads need to be replaced if a brake pad
is worn to the bottom of the indicator.

62

1.

Inspect the brake pads from in front of the

brake caliper.
If necessary have the pads replaced by your
dealer.
Always replace both left and right brake pads
at the same time.

Brakes u Inspecting the Front Brake Lever Freeplay

Maintenance

XL125LEK

Freeplay

Front brake
lever

Inspecting the Front Brake
Lever Freeplay

1.

2.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.
Measure the distance of the front brake
lever before the starts to take hold.

Freeplay at the tip of the brake
lever: 10 to 20 mm (0.4 to 0.8 in)

Check the brake cable for kinks or signs of
wear. If necessary have it replaced by your
dealer.
Lubricate the brake cable with a
commercially available cable lubricant to
prevent premature wear and corrosion.
Make sure the brake arm, spring and
fastener are in good condition.

63

Brakes u Adjusting the Front Brake Lever Freeplay

Maintenance

XL125LEK

Adjusting
nut

Brake arm
pin

Increase
Freeplay

Adjusting nut

Decrease
Freeplay

Brake arm pin

Adjusting the Front Brake Lever
Freeplay

Adjust the freeplay of the brake lever with
the front wheel pointed straight ahead.
Make sure the cut-out on the adjusting nut is
seated on the brake arm pin when adjusting
the freeplay.

If proper adjustment cannot be obtained by
this method, see your dealer.

64

1.

Adjust by turning the front brake

adjusting nut a half-turn at a time.

2.

Apply the brake several times and check

for free wheel rotation after the brake

lever is released.

3.

Push the brake arm to confirm that there

is a gap between the front brake adjusting

nut and brake arm pin.

Maintenance

NOTICE

Adjusting nut

Brake arm pin

Brake arm

Push

Gap

Brake pedal

Stopper bolt

Lock nut

After adjustment, confirm the freeplay of the
brake lever.

Do not turn the adjuster beyond its natural limits.

Brakes u Adjusting the Rear Brake Pedal Height

Adjusting the Rear Brake Pedal
Height

The stopper bolt is provided to allow
adjustment of the pedal height.

1.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.

2.

Loosen the lock nut and turn the stopper
bolt.

3.

Tighten the lock nut and check the
freeplay.

65

Brakes u Inspecting the Rear Brake Pedal Freeplay

Maintenance

Freeplay

Adjusting nut

Brake arm pin

Inspecting the Rear Brake Pedal
Freeplay

1.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.

2.

Measure the distance of the rear brake
pedal before the starts to take hold.

Freeplay at the tip of the brake
pedal: 15 to 25 mm (0.6 to 1.0 in)

66

Make sure the brake rod, brake arm, spring
and fastener are in good condition.

Adjusting the Rear Brake Pedal
Freeplay

Make sure the cut-out on the adjusting nut is
seated on the brake arm pin when adjusting
the freeplay.

If proper adjustment cannot be obtained by
this method, see your dealer.

Maintenance

Increase
Freeplay

Adjusting nut

Brake arm pin

Decrease
Freeplay

NOTICE

Adjusting
nut

Brake arm
pin

Push

Gap

Brakes u Adjusting the Rear Brake Pedal Freeplay

1.

Adjust by turning the rear brake adjusting
nut a half-turn at a time.

2.

Apply the brake several times and check
for free wheel rotation after the brake
pedal is released.

3.

Push the brake arm to confirm that there
is a gap between the rear brake adjusting
nut and brake arm pin.

After adjustment, confirm the freeplay of the
brake pedal.

Do not turn the adjuster beyond its natural limits.

67

Brakes u Inspecting the Brake Shoe Wear

Maintenance

XL125LEK

Except XL125LEK

Arrow

Reference
mark

XL125LEK Front

Brake arm

Brake
panel

Arrow

Reference
mark

Rear

Brake arm

Brake panel

Inspecting the Brake Shoe
Wear

The front and rear brake are equipped with a
brake wear indicator.

The rear brake is equipped with a brake wear
indicator.

68

Brakes u Adjusting the Brakelight Switch

Maintenance

Brakelight switch

Adjusting nut

A

B

When the brake is applied, an arrow
attached to the brake arm moves toward a
reference mark on the brake panel. If the
arrow aligns with the reference mark on full
application of the brake, the brake shoes
must be replaced.
See your dealer for this service.

When the brake service is necessary, see your
dealer. Use only Honda Genuine Parts or its
equivalent.

Adjusting the Brakelight
Switch

Check the operation of the brakelight switch.
Turn the adjusting nut in the direction A if
the switch operates too late, or turn the nut
in the direction B if the switch operates too
soon.

69

Maintenance

Side Stand

Side stand spring

Except XR150LEK-NZ type

Side stand spring

XR150LEK-NZ type

70

Maintenance

1.

XR150LEK-NZ type

Except XR150LEK-NZ type

Good

Replace

Wear line

Rubber pad

2.

3.

4.

5.

Check that the side stand operates
smoothly. If the side stand is stiff or
squeaky, clean the pivot area and
lubricate the pivot bolt with clean grease.
Check the spring for damage or loss of
tension.

Sit on the motorcycle, put the
transmission in Neutral, and raise the side
stand.
Start the engine, pull the clutch lever in,
and shift the transmission into gear.
Lower the side stand all the way. The
engine should stop as you lower the side
stand. If the engine doesn’t stop, have
your motorcycle inspected by your dealer.

Side Stand u Checking the Rubber Pad

Checking the Rubber Pad

Check the rubber pad for deterioration and
wear. Replace if wear extends to any point of
the wear line.
If necessary have the rubber pad replaced by
your dealer.

71

Maintenance

Drive Chain

Inspecting the Drive Chain
Slack

Check the drive chain slack at several points
along the chain. If the slack is not constant at
all points, some links may be kinked and
binding.
Have the chain inspected by your dealer.

1.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.

2.

Stop the engine. Place the transmission in
Neutral.

3.

Check the slack in the lower half of the
drive chain midway between the sprockets.

Drive chain slack:

20 to 30 mm (0.8 to 1.2 in)

u Do not ride your motorcycle if the slack

exceeds 60 mm (2.4 in).

72

4.

Roll the motorcycle forward and check

that the chain moves smoothly.

5.

Inspect the sprockets. 2 P. 46

6.

Clean and lubricate the drive chain.

2 P. 47

Maintenance

Adjusting the Drive Chain Slack

Adjusting nut

Lock nut

Index marks

Rear axle nut

Front edge
of adjusting
slot

Lock nut

Index marks

Adjusting nut

Front edge of
adjusting slot

Adjusting the chain requires special tools.
Have the drive chain slack adjusted by your
dealer.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Drive Chain u Adjusting the Drive Chain Slack

Place your motorcycle on its side stand
on a firm, level surface.
Stop the engine. Place the transmission
in Neutral.
Loosen the rear axle nut.
Loosen the lock nuts on both sides of the
swingarm.

continued

73

Drive Chain u Adjusting the Drive Chain Slack

Maintenance

5.

Turn both adjusting nuts an equal
number of turns until the correct drive
chain slack is obtained. Turn the
adjusting nuts clockwise to tighten the
chain. Turn the adjusting nuts
counterclockwise to provide more slack.
Adjust the slack at a point midway
between the front sprocket and the rear
wheel sprocket.
Check the drive chain slack.

6.

Check rear axle alignment by making

2 P. 72

sure the chain adjuster index marks align
with the front edge of the adjusting
slots.
Both marks should correspond. If the
axle is misaligned, turn the right or left
adjusting nuts until the marks are aligned
and recheck chain slack.

74

7.

Tighten the rear axle nut.

Torque: 93 N·m (9.5 kgf·m, 69 lbf·ft).

8.

Tighten the drive chain adjusting nuts
lightly, then hold the adjusting nuts and
tighten the lock nuts.

9.

Recheck drive chain slack.

10.

Rear brake pedal freeplay is affected
when repositioning the rear wheel to
adjust drive chain slack. Check rear brake
pedal freeplay and adjust as necessary.

2 P. 66

If a torque wrench was not used for
installation, see your dealer as soon as
possible to verify proper assembly.
Improper assembly may lead to loss of
braking capacity.

Maintenance

Checking the Drive Chain Wear

Red
zone

Arrow
mark

Wear limit point

Drive chain slider

❙

Check the chain wear label when adjusting
the drive chain. If the arrow mark on the
chain adjuster plate enters the red zone on
the label after the chain has been adjusted to
the proper slack, the chain is excessively
worn and must be replaced.

Chain: CHOHO 428 HO

If necessary have the drive chain replaced by
your dealer.

Drive Chain u Checking the Drive Chain Slider

Checking the Drive Chain Slider

Check the condition of the drive chain slider.
The drive chain slider need to be replaced if a
chain slider is worn to the wear limit point.
If necessary have the drive chain slider
replaced by your dealer.

75

Maintenance

Clutch

Freeplay

Clutch lever

Checking the Clutch

Checking the Clutch Lever Freeplay

❙

Check the clutch lever freeplay.

Freeplay at the clutch lever:

10 to 20 mm (0.4 to 0.8 in)

76

Check the clutch cable for kinks or signs of
wear. If necessary have it replaced by your
dealer.
Lubricate the clutch cable with a
commercially available cable lubricant to
prevent premature wear and corrosion.

Maintenance

Adjusting the Clutch Lever

Upper adjuster

Upper lock nut

Rubber dust cover

Freeplay

Upper Adjustment

❙

Attempt adjustment with the upper clutch
cable adjuster first.

Clutch u Adjusting the Clutch Lever Freeplay

1.

Pull back the rubber dust cover.

2.

Loosen the upper lock nut.

3.

Turn the upper adjuster until the freeplay
is 10 to 20 mm (0.4 to 0.8 in).

4.

Tighten the upper lock nut and check the
freeplay again.

5.

Install the rubber dust cover.

continued

77

Clutch u Adjusting the Clutch Lever Freeplay

Maintenance

Lower adjusting nut

Lower lock nut

–

+

Lower Adjustment

❙

If the upper clutch cable adjuster is threaded
out near its limit, or the correct freeplay
cannot be obtained, attempt adjustment
with the lower clutch cable adjusting nut.

1.

Turn the upper clutch cable adjuster all
the way in (to provide maximum freeplay).
Tighten the upper lock nut.

2.

Loosen the lower lock nut.

3.

Turn the lower adjusting nut until the
clutch lever freeplay is 10 to 20 mm (0.4
to 0.8 in).

4.

Tighten the lower lock nut and check the
clutch lever freeplay.

78

5.

Start the engine, pull the clutch lever in,

and shift into gear. Make sure the engine

does not stall and the motorcycle does not

creep. Gradually release the clutch lever

and open the throttle. Your motorcycle

should move smoothly and accelerate

gradually.

If proper adjustment cannot be obtained or
the clutch does not work correctly, see your
dealer.

Maintenance

Throttle

Freeplay

Flange

Checking the Throttle

With the engine off, check that the throttle
rotates smoothly from fully closed to fully
open in all steering positions and throttle
freeplay is correct. If the throttle does not
move smoothly, close automatically, or if the
cable is damaged, have the motorcycle
inspected by your dealer.

Freeplay at the throttle grip flange:

2 to 6 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in)

79

Maintenance

Crankcase Breather

Crankcase breather tube plug

Cleaning the Crankcase
Breather

1.

Remove the crankcase breather tube plug
from the tube.

2.

Drain deposits into a suitable container.

3.

Install the crankcase breather tube plug.

80

Maintenance

Other Adjustments

Raise

Lower

Adjusting the Headlight Aim

You can adjust vertical aim of the headlight
for proper alignment. Turn the screw using a
Phillips screwdriver provided in the tool kit
(

2 P. 52) in or out as necessary.

Obey local laws and regulations.

81

Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Start .................................P. 83

Tyre Puncture .............................................P. 84

Electrical Trouble........................................P. 91

Battery Goes Dead.....................................P. 91

Burned-out Light Bulb ...............................P. 91

Blown Fuse................................................P. 95

Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Start

XR150LEK-NZ type

Starter Motor Operates But Engine

❙

Does Not Start

Check the following items:

● Check the correct engine starting

sequence 2 P. 29

● Check that there is petrol in the fuel tank

Starter Motor Does Not Operate

❙

Check the following items:

● Check for a blown fuse 2 P. 95

● Check for a loose battery connection or

battery terminal corrosion 2 P. 43

● Check the condition of the battery 2 P. 91

● Make sure the side stand is raise.

If the problem continues, have your
motorcycle inspected by your dealer.

83

Troubleshooting

Tyre Puncture

3

WARNING

Repairing a puncture or removing a wheel
requires special tools and technical expertise.
We recommend you have this type of service
performed by your dealer.
After an emergency repair, always have the
tyre inspected/replaced by your dealer.

Tube Repair and Replacement

If a tube is punctured or damaged, you
should replace it as soon as possible. A tube
that is repaired may not have the same
reliability as a new one, and it may fail while
you are riding.
If you need to make a temporary repair by
patching a tube or using an aerosol sealant,
ride cautiously at reduced speed and have
the tube replaced before you ride again.
Anytime a tube is replaced, the tyre should
be carefully inspected as described.

84

Riding your motorcycle with a
temporary tyre or tube repair can be
risky. If the temporary repair fails, you
can crash and be seriously injured or
killed.

If you must ride with a temporary tyre
or tube repair, ride slowly and
carefully and do not exceed 50 km/h
(30 mph) until the tyre and tube are
replaced.

Removing Wheels

Follow these procedures if you need to
remove a wheel in order to repair a puncture.

Troubleshooting

Front Wheel

Except XL125LEK

Front axle shaft

Speedometer cable
set screw

Speedometer cable

Speedometer
gearbox

Front axle
nut

Rubber cap

❙

Removal

1.

2.

3.

4.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.
Support your motorcycle securely and
raise the front wheel off the ground using
a maintenance stand or a hoist.
Remove the speedometer cable set screw
and disconnect the speedometer cable.
Remove the rubber cap and front axle nut.

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

5.

Remove the front axle shaft, front wheel,
side collar and speedometer gearbox.

u Avoid getting grease, oil, or dirt on the

disc or pad surfaces.

u Do not pull the brake lever while the

front wheel is removed.

continued

85

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

Troubleshooting

NOTICE

Lug

Slot

Installation

1.

Attach the side collar and speedometer
gearbox to the front wheel.

2.

Position the wheel between the fork legs
and insert the front axle shaft from the
right side, through the right fork leg and
wheel hub.

When installing the wheel, carefully fit the brake disc
between the pads to avoid scratching them.

86

3.

Make sure that the lug on the right fork

leg is located in the slot of the

speedometer gearbox.

4.

Tighten the front axle nut.

Torque: 44 N·m (4.5 kgf·m, 32 lbf·ft).

5.

Install the rubber cap onto the front axle

nut.

6.

After installing the wheel, apply the brake

lever several times and then check if the

wheel rotates freely. Recheck the wheel if

the brake drags or if the wheel does not

rotate freely.

7.

Install the speedometer cable and tighten

the speedometer cable set screw securely.
If a torque wrench was not used for
installation, see your dealer as soon as
possible to verify proper assembly.
Improper assembly may lead to loss of
braking capacity.

Troubleshooting

XL125LEK

Front brake adjusting nut

Brake arm

Tab

Front axle nut

Speedometer
cable

Rubber cap

Front brake cable

Front axle shaft

Front Wheel

❙

Removal

1.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.

2.

Raise the front wheel off the ground using
a maintenance stand or a hoist.

3.

Remove the speedometer cable by
pushing the tab.

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

4.

Remove the front brake adjusting nut and
remove the front brake cable from the
brake arm.

5.

Remove the rubber cap and front axle nut.

6.

Remove the front axle shaft, side collar,
and the wheel.

continued

87

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

Troubleshooting

Lug

Slot

Installation

1.

Install the side collar into the right side
wheel hub.

2.

Position the wheel between the fork legs
and insert the front axle shaft from the
right side, through the right fork leg and
wheel hub.

3.

Make sure that the lug on the left fork leg
is located in the slot of the brake panel.

88

4.

Tighten the front axle nut.

Torque: 44 N·m (4.5 kgf·m, 32 lbf·ft).

5.

Install the rubber cap onto the front axle

nut.

6.

Adjust the front brake lever freeplay.

2 P. 64

7.

After installing the wheel, apply the brake

lever several times and then check if the

wheel rotates freely. Recheck the wheel if

the brake drags or if the wheel does not

rotate freely.

8.

Install the speedometer cable securely.

If a torque wrench was not used for
installation, see your dealer as soon as
possible to verify proper assembly.
Improper assembly may lead to loss of
braking capacity.

Troubleshooting

Brake rod

Rear brake
adjusting
nut

Rear axle nut

Rear axle
washer

Drive chain
lock nut

Drive chain adjusting nut

Brake arm

Drive chain
adjusting nut

Drive chain lock nut

Rear axle shaft

Drive chain

Rear Wheel

❙

Removal

1.

Place your motorcycle on its side stand on
a firm, level surface.

2.

Raise the rear wheel off the ground using
a maintenance stand or a hoist.

3.

Remove the rear brake adjusting nut.

4.

Disconnect the brake rod from the brake
arm.

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

5.

Loosen the drive chain lock nuts and drive
chain adjusting nuts on both sides of the
swingarm.

6.

Remove the rear axle nut.

7.

Remove the drive chain from the rear
wheel sprocket by pushing the rear wheel
forward.

8.

Remove the rear axle shaft, rear axle
washer, side collars and rear wheel from
the swingarm.

continued

89

Tyre Puncture u Removing Wheels

Troubleshooting

Brake panel

Rear axle nut

Swingarm

Lug

Slot

Installation

1.

Attach the side collar to the rear wheel.

2.

Place the rear wheel between the
swingarm and install the drive chain over
the rear wheel sprocket.

3.

Make sure that the lug on the swingarm
is located in the slot of the brake panel.

90

4.

Insert the rear axle shaft from the left
side, through the left swingarm, wheel
hub, brake panel and right swingarm.

5.

Temporarily tighten the rear axle nut.

6.

Connect the brake rod to the brake arm.

7.

Adjust the drive chain slack. 2 P. 73

8.

Adjust the rear brake pedal freeplay.

2 P. 66

9.

Tighten the rear axle nut.

Torque: 93 N·m (9.5 kgf·m, 69 lbf·ft).

10.

After installing the wheel, apply the
brake pedal several times, then check if
the wheel rotates freely. Recheck the
wheel if the brake drags or if the wheel
does not rotate freely.

If a torque wrench was not used for
installation, see your dealer as soon as
possible to verify proper assembly.
Improper assembly may lead to loss of
braking capacity.

Troubleshooting

Electrical Trouble

NOTICE

Battery Goes Dead

Charge the battery using a motorcycle
battery charger.
Remove the battery from the motorcycle
before charging.
Do not use an automobile-type battery
charger, as these can overheat a motorcycle
battery and cause permanent damage.
If the battery does not recover after
recharging, contact your dealer.

Jump starting using an automobile battery is not
recommended, as this can damage your motorcycle’s
electrical system.

Burned-out Light Bulb

Follow the procedure below to replace a
burned-out light bulb.
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF or LOCK
position.
Allow the bulb to cool before replacing it.
Do not use bulbs other than those specified.
Check the replacement bulb for correct
operation before riding.

For the light bulb wattage, see
“Specifications.”

2 P. 110

continued

91

Electrical Trouble u Burned-out Light Bulb

Troubleshooting

Bolt

Headlight assembly

Bolt

Connector

Bulb

Dust cover

Pin

Headlight Bulb

❙

1.

Remove the headlight assembly by
removing the bolts.

2.

Disconnect the connector.

3.

Remove the dust cover.

4.

Press the pin down and pull out the bulb

without turning it.

5.

Install a new bulb and parts in the reverse

order of removal.
Do not touch the glass surface with your
fingers. If you touch the bulb with your bare
hands, clean it with a cloth moistened with
alcohol.

92

Electrical Trouble u Burned-out Light Bulb

Troubleshooting

Bulb

Socket

Taillight lens

Screws

Bulb

❙

1.

2.

3.

4.

Position Light bulb

Remove the headlight assembly. 2 P. 92
Pull the socket and remove it.
Pull out the bulb without turning it.
Install a new bulb and parts in the reverse
order of removal.

Brake/Tail light bulb

❙

1.

Remove the taillight lens by removing the
screws.

2.

Slightly press the bulb in and turn it
counterclockwise.

3.

Install a new bulb and parts in the reverse
order of removal.

u After putting back the lens packing in

place, install the taillight lens.

continued

93

Electrical Trouble u Burned-out Light Bulb

Troubleshooting

Turn
signal
lens

Screw

Bulb

Socket

License
light cover

Bulb

Washer

Nuts A

Washers

Nuts B

License
light lens

License plate
bracket

94

Front/Rear Turn Signal Bulb

❙

1.

Remove the turn signal lens by removing
the screw.

2.

Turn the socket counterclockwise, and
remove it.

3.

Slightly press the bulb in and turn it
counterclockwise.

4.

Install a new bulb and parts in the reverse
order of removal.

u Use only the amber bulb.

License Plate Light Bulb

❙

1.

Remove the nuts A, washers and license

plate bracket.

2.

Remove the nuts B, license light cover and

license light lens.

3.

Slightly press the bulb in and turn it

counterclockwise.

4.

Install a new bulb and parts in the reverse

order of removal.

Troubleshooting

Fuse box cover

Spare fuse

Fuse box

Blown Fuse

Before handling fuses, see “Inspecting and
Replacing Fuses.” 2 P. 44

Fuse Box Fuses

❙

Electrical Trouble u Blown Fuse

1.

Remove the left side cover. 2 P. 54

2.

Open the fuse box cover.

3.

Pull out the fuses and check for a blown
fuse. Always replace a blown fuse with a
spare of the same rating.

4.

Close the fuse box cover.

5.

Install the parts in the reverse order of
removal.

continued

95

Electrical Trouble u Blown Fuse

Troubleshooting

Main fuse

Spare main fuse

Wire
connector

Starter magnetic
switch

NOTICE

Main Fuse

❙

1.

Remove the left side cover. 2 P. 54

2.

Disconnect the wire connector of the

starter magnetic switch.

3.

Pull the main fuse out and check for a

blown fuse. Always replace a blown fuse

with a spare of the same rating.

u Spare main fuse is provided in the

starter magnetic switch.

4.

Install the parts in the reverse order of

removal.

96

If a fuse fails repeatedly, you likely have an electrical
problem. Have your motorcycle inspected by your dealer.