Yamaha SR125 Owner's Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

SR125

3MW-28199-E3

EAU00001	INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the Yamaha world of motorcycling!

As the owner of a SR125, you are benefiting from Yamaha’s vast experience in and newest technology for the design and the manufacture of high-quality products, which have earned Yamaha a reputation for dependability.

Please take the time to read this manual thoroughly, so as to enjoy all your SR125’s advantages. The owner’s manual does not only instruct you in how to operate, inspect and maintain your motorcycle, but also in how to safeguard yourself and others from trouble and injury.

In addition, the many tips given in this manual will help to keep your motorcycle in the best possible condition. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact your Yamaha dealer.

The Yamaha team wishes you many safe and pleasant rides. So, remember to put safety first!

IMPORTANT MANUAL INFORMATION	EAU00005

Particularly important information is distinguished in this manual by the following notations:

The Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS

INVOLVED!

	WARNING	Failure to follow WARNING instructions could result in severe injury or death to the
		motorcycle operator, a bystander or a person inspecting or repairing the motorcycle.
	CAUTION:	A CAUTION indicates special precautions that must be taken to avoid damage to the
		motorcycle.

NOTE: A NOTE provides key information to make procedures easier or clearer.

NOTE:

●This manual should be considered a permanent part of this motorcycle and should remain with it even if the motorcycle is subsequently sold.

●Yamaha continually seeks advancements in product design and quality. Therefore, while this manual contains the most current product information available at the time of printing, there may be minor discrepancies between your motorcycle and this manual. If there is any question concerning this manual, please consult your Yamaha dealer.

IMPORTANT MANUAL INFORMATION

EW000002

WARNING

PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY BEFORE OPERATING THIS MOTORCYCLE.

IMPORTANT MANUAL INFORMATION

EAU03337

SR125

OWNER’S MANUAL

© 2001 by Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. 1st Edition, January 2001

All rights reserved.

Any reprinting or unauthorized use without the written permission of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

is expressly prohibited. Printed in Japan.

EAU00009	TABLE OF CONTENTS

	1	GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY..................	1-1
	2	DESCRIPTION ....................................................	2-1
		Left view	2-1
		Right view...........................................................	2-2
		Controls/Instruments ..........................................	2-3
	3	INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS ....	3-1
		Main switch/steering lock	3-1
		Indicator lights ....................................................	3-2
		Speedometer......................................................	3-2
		Handlebar switches............................................	3-2
		Clutch lever ........................................................	3-4
		Shift pedal ..........................................................	3-4
		Front brake lever ................................................	3-4
		Rear brake pedal................................................	3-5
		Fuel tank cap......................................................	3-5
		Fuel ....................................................................	3-6
		Fuel cock............................................................	3-6
		Starter (choke) knob...........................................	3-7
		Seat....................................................................	3-8
		Helmet holder.....................................................	3-8
		Rear shock absorber adjustment .......................	3-9
		Sidestand ...........................................................	3-9
		Sidestand/clutch switch operation check .........	3-10

	4	PRE-OPERATION CHECKS ...............................	4-1
		Pre-operation check list	4-1
	5	OPERATION AND IMPORTANT RIDING
		POINTS	5-1
		Starting the engine .............................................	5-1
		Starting a warm engine ......................................	5-3
		Shifting ...............................................................	5-4
		Recommended shift points
		(for Switzerland only)......................................	5-4
		Tips for reducing fuel consumption ....................	5-5
		Engine break-in ..................................................	5-5
		Parking ...............................................................	5-6
	6	PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND MINOR
		REPAIR	6-1
		Tool kit................................................................	6-1
		Periodic maintenance and lubrication chart .......	6-2
		Panel removal and installation ...........................	6-5
		Panels A and B ..................................................	6-5
		Spark plug ..........................................................	6-6
		Engine oil ...........................................................	6-8
		Air filter .............................................................	6-10
		Carburetor adjustment .....................................	6-11
		Idle speed adjustment ......................................	6-11

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Throttle cable free play adjustment..................	6-12
Cam chain adjustment .....................................	6-12
Valve clearance adjustment.............................	6-13
Tires .................................................................	6-13
Wheels .............................................................	6-15
Clutch lever free play adjustment.....................	6-16
Front brake lever free play adjustment ............	6-16
Rear brake pedal height and free play
adjustment....................................................	6-17
Brake light switch adjustment ..........................	6-18
Checking the front brake pads and
rear brake shoes ..........................................	6-19
Inspecting the brake fluid level.........................	6-20
Brake fluid replacement ...................................	6-20
Drive chain slack check ...................................	6-21
Drive chain slack adjustment ...........................	6-22
Drive chain lubrication......................................	6-23
Cable inspection and lubrication ......................	6-23
Throttle cable and grip lubrication....................	6-23
Brake and shift pedal lubrication......................	6-24
Brake and clutch lever lubrication ....................	6-24
Center and sidestand lubrication .....................	6-24
Front fork inspection ........................................	6-25
Steering inspection ..........................................	6-26
Wheel bearings ................................................	6-26
Battery..............................................................	6-26
Fuse replacement ............................................	6-28
Headlight bulb replacement .............................	6-29

Turn signal and tail/brake light bulb
replacement..................................................	6-30
Front wheel removal ........................................	6-30
Front wheel installation ....................................	6-31
Rear wheel removal .........................................	6-32
Rear wheel installation.....................................	6-33
Troubleshooting ...............................................	6-33
Troubleshooting chart ......................................	6-34

	7	MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE .............	7-1
		Care	7-1
		Storage ..............................................................	7-4
	8	SPECIFICATIONS...............................................	8-1
		Specifications	8-1
		How to use the conversion table........................	8-5
	9	CONSUMER INFORMATION..............................	9-1
		Identification number records	9-1
		Key identification number...................................	9-1
		Vehicle identification number .............................	9-1
		Model label.........................................................	9-2

EAU00021	GIVE SAFETY THE RIGHT OF WAY

Motorcycles are fascinating vehicles, which can give you an unsurpassed feeling of power and freedom. However, they also impose certain limits, which you must accept; even the best motorcycle does not ignore the laws of physics.

1

Regular care and maintenance are essential for preserving your motorcycle’s value and operating condition. Moreover, what is true for the motorcycle is also true for the rider: good performance depends on being in good shape. Riding under the influence of medication, drugs and alcohol is, of course, out of the question. Motorcycle riders - more than car drivers - must always be at their mental and physical best. Under the influence of even small amounts of alcohol, there is a tendency to take dangerous risks.

Protective clothing is as essential for the motorcycle rider as seat belts are for car drivers and passengers. Always wear a complete motorcycle suit (whether made of leather or tear-resistant synthetic materials with protectors), sturdy boots, motorcycle gloves and a properly fitting helmet. Optimum protective wear, however, should not encourage carelessness. Though full-coverage helmets and suits, in particular, create an illusion of total safety and protection, motorcyclists will always be vulnerable. Riders who lack critical self-control run the risk of going too fast and are apt to take chances. This is even more dangerous in wet weather. The good motorcyclist rides safely, predictably and defensively - avoiding all dangers, including those caused by others.

Enjoy your ride!

1-1

DESCRIPTION	EAU00026

Left view

2

1. Fuel tank cap	(page 3-5)	5. Sidestand	(page 3-9)
2. Fuel cock	(page 3-6)	6. Starter (choke) knob	(page 3-7)
3. Helmet holder	(page 3-8)	7. Shift pedal	(page 3-4)
4. Fuse box	(page 6-28)

2-1

DESCRIPTION

Right view

2

8. Seat	(page 3-8)	12. Engine oil filler cap
9. Rear shock absorber spring		13. Rear brake pedal	(page 3-5)
preload adjusting ring	(page 3-9)	14. Footrest
10. Tool kit	(page 6-1)	15. Battery	(page 6-26)
11. Air filter	(page 6-10)

2-2

DESCRIPTION

Controls/Instruments

2

1. Clutch lever	(page 3-4)	5. Right handlebar switches	(page 3-3)
2. Left handlebar switches	(page 3-2)	6. Front brake lever	(page 3-4)
3. Speedometer	(page 3-2)	7. Throttle grip	(page 6-12)
4. Front brake fluid reservoir	(page 6-20)	8. Main switch/steering lock	(page 3-1)

2-3

EAU00027	INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

3

1. Push

2. Turn

EAU00029*

EAU00040

Main switch/steering lock

The main switch controls the ignition and lighting systems. Its operation is described below.

EAU00036

ON

Electrical circuits are switched on. The engine can be started. The key cannot be removed in this position.

EAU00038

LOCK

The steering is locked in this position and all electrical circuits are switched off. The key can be removed in this position.

To lock the steering, turn the handlebars all the way to the left. While pushing the key into the main switch, turn it from “OFF” to “LOCK” and remove it.

To release the lock, turn the key to “OFF” while pushing.

EW000016

WARNING

@

Never turn the key to “OFF” or “LOCK” when the motorcycle is moving. The electrical circuits will be switched off which may result in loss of control or an accident. Be sure the motorcycle is stopped before turning the key to “OFF” or “LOCK”.

@

OFF

All electrical circuits are switched off. The key can be removed in this position.

3-1

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

3

1.Neutral indicator light “ ”

2.Turn indicator light “ ”

3.High beam indicator light “ ”

EAU00056

Indicator lights

EAU00061

Neutral indicator light “ ”

This indicator comes on when the transmission is in neutral.

	EAU00057
Turn indicator light “	”

This indicator flashes when the turn switch is moved to the left or right.

EAU00063

High beam indicator light “ ”

This indicator comes on when the headlight high beam is used.

1.Reset knob

2.Tripmeter

3.Odometer

4.Speedometer

EAU00095*

Speedometer

The speedometer shows riding speed. This speedometer is equipped with an odometer and tripmeter. The tripmeter can be reset to “0” with the reset knob. Use the tripmeter to estimate how far you can ride on a tank of fuel. This information will enable you to plan fuel stops in the future.

1.Lights switch

2.Dimmer switch

3.Turn signal switch

4.Horn switch “ ”

EAU00118

Handlebar switches

EAU00134

Lights switch

Turning the light switch to “ ”, turns on the auxiliary light, meter lights and taillight. Turning the light switch to “ ” turns the headlight on also.

EAU00121

Dimmer switch

Turn the switch to “ ” for the high beam and to “ ” for the low beam.

3-2

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

EAU00127

Turn signal switch

To signal a right-hand turn, push the switch to “ ”. To signal a left-hand turn, push the switch to “ ”. Once the switch is released it will return to the center position. To cancel the signal, push the switch in after it has returned to the center position.

EAU00129

Horn switch “ ”

Press the switch to sound the horn.

1.Engine stop switch

2.Start switch “ ”

EAU00138

Engine stop switch

The engine stop switch is a safety device for use in an emergency such as when the motorcycle overturns or if trouble occurs in the throttle system. Turn the switch to “ ” to start the engine. In case of emergency, turn the switch to “ ” to stop the engine.

EAU00143

Start switch “ ”

The starter motor cranks the engine when pushing the start switch.

EC000005

CAUTION:

@

See starting instructions prior to starting the engine.

	3
@

3-3

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

3

1. Clutch lever	1. Shift pedal	1. Front brake lever
EAU00152	EAU00157	EAU00158
Clutch lever	Shift pedal	Front brake lever

The clutch lever is located on the left handlebar, and the ignition circuit cutoff system is incorporated in the clutch lever holder. Pull the clutch lever to the handlebar to disengage the clutch, and release the lever to engage the clutch. The lever should be pulled rapidly and released slowly for smooth clutch operation. (Refer to the engine starting procedures for a description of the ignition circuit cut-off system.)

This motorcycle is equipped with a con-	The front brake lever is located on the
stant-mesh 5-speed transmission.	right handlebar. Pull it toward the han-
The shift pedal is located on the left	dlebar to apply the front brake.
side of the engine and is used in com-
bination with the clutch when shifting.

3-4

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

1. Rear brake pedal

EAU00162

Rear brake pedal

The rear brake pedal is on the right side of the motorcycle. Press down on the brake pedal to apply the rear brake.

1. Open

EAU00167

Fuel tank cap

To open

Insert the key and turn it 1/4 turn clockwise. The lock will be released and the cap can be opened.

To close

Push the tank cap into position with the key inserted. To remove the key, turn it counterclockwise to the original position.

NOTE:

@

This tank cap cannot be closed unless the key is in the lock. The key cannot be removed if the cap is not locked properly.

@

EW000023

WARNING

@

Be sure the cap is properly installed 3 and locked in place before riding the motorcycle.

@

3-5

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

3

1.Filler tube

2.Fuel level

EAU01183

Fuel

Make sure there is sufficient fuel in the tank. Fill the fuel tank to the bottom of the filler tube as shown in the illustration.

EW000130

WARNING

Do not overfill the fuel tank. Avoid spilling fuel on the hot engine. Do not fill the fuel tank above the bottom of the filler tube or it may overflow when the fuel heats up later and expands.

EAU00185

CAUTION:

Always wipe off spilled fuel immediately with a dry and clean soft cloth. Fuel may deteriorate painted surfaces or plastic parts.

EAU00191

Recommended fuel:

Regular unleaded gasoline with a research octane number of 91 or higher.

Fuel tank capacity: Total:

10.0 L Reserve:

1.6 L

NOTE:

If knocking or pinging occurs, use a different brand of gasoline or higher octane grade.

OFF: closed position

1. Arrow mark positioned over “OFF”

EAU03050

Fuel cock

The fuel cock supplies fuel from the tank to the carburetor while filtering it also.

The fuel cock has three positions:

OFF

With the lever in this position, fuel will not flow. Always return the lever to this position when the engine is not running.

3-6

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

ON: normal position			RES: reserve position

1. Arrow mark positioned over “ON”

ON

With the lever in this position, fuel flows to the carburetor. Normal riding is done with the lever in this position.

1. Arrow mark positioned over “RES”

RES

This indicates reserve. If you run out of fuel while riding, move the lever to this position. Fill the tank at the first opportunity. Be sure to set the lever back to “ON” after refueling!

3

1. Starter (choke) knob

EAU03032

Starter (choke) knob

Starting a cold engine requires a richer air-fuel mixture, which is supplied by the starter (choke).

Move the knob in direction a to turn on the starter (choke).

Move the knob in direction b to turn off the starter (choke).

3-7

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

3

1. Bolt (× 2)

EAU01092

Seat

To remove the seat, remove the bolts.

1.Seat holder

2.Projection

To install the seat, insert the projection on the front of the seat into the holder and push down on the seat, then tighten the bolts.

NOTE:

Make sure that the seat is securely fitted.

1.Lock

2.Open

EAU00261

Helmet holder

To open the helmet holder, insert the key in the lock and turn it as shown. To lock the helmet holder, turn the key to its original position.

EW000030

WARNING

@

Never ride with a helmet in the helmet holder. The helmet may hit objects, causing loss of control and possibly an accident.

@

3-8

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

1.Spring preload adjusting ring

2.Position indicator

EAU00300

Rear shock absorber adjustment

Each shock absorber is equipped with a spring preload adjusting ring. Adjust spring preload as follows. Turn the adjusting ring in direction a to increase spring preload and in direction b to decrease spring preload. Make sure that the appropriate notch in the adjusting ring is aligned with the position indicator on the rear shock absorber.

			Soft/Standard			Hard
	Adjusting	1	2	3	4	5
	position

EW000040

WARNING

Always adjust each shock absorber to the same setting. Uneven adjustment can cause poor handling and loss of stability.

EAU00330

Sidestand

This model is equipped with an ignition circuit cut-off system. The motorcycle must not be ridden when the sidestand is down. The sidestand is located on the left side of the frame. (Refer to page 5-1 for an explanation of this sys-

tem.)	3
	EW000044

WARNING

@

This motorcycle must not be operated with the sidestand in the down position. If the stand is not properly retracted, it could contact the ground and distract the operator, resulting in a possible loss of control. Yamaha has designed into this motorcycle a lockout system to assist the operator in fulfilling the responsibility of retracting the sidestand. Please check carefully the operating instructions listed below and if there is any indication of a malfunction, return the motorcycle to a Yamaha dealer immediately for repair.

@

3-9

INSTRUMENT AND CONTROL FUNCTIONS

EAU00332

Sidestand/clutch switch operation check

Check the operation of the sidestand switch and clutch switch against the information below.

EW000046

WARNING

3

●Be sure to use the centerstand during this inspection.

●If improper operation is noted, consult a Yamaha dealer.

TURN MAIN SWITCH TO “ON” AND THE ENGINE STOP SWITCH TO “ ”.

TRANSMISSION IS IN GEAR AND

SIDESTAND IS UP.

PULL IN CLUTCH LEVER AND

PUSH START SWITCH.

CLUTCH SWITCH IS OK.

SIDESTAND IS DOWN.

ENGINE WILL STALL.

SIDESTAND SWITCH IS OK.

ENGINE WILL START.

3-10

EAU01114	PRE-OPERATION CHECKS

Owners are personally responsible for their vehicle’s condition. Your motorcycle’s vital functions can start to deteriorate quickly and unexpectedly, even if it remains unused (for instance, if it is exposed to the elements). Any damage, fluid leak or loss of tire pressure could have serious consequences. Therefore, it is very important that, in addition to a thorough visual inspection, you check the following points before each ride.

EAU00340

PRE-OPERATION CHECK LIST

ITEM	CHECKS	PAGE
Front brake	• Check operation, free play, fluid level and fluid leakage.
	• Fill with DOT 4 (or DOT 3) brake fluid if necessary.
		6-16 ~ 6-20
Rear brake	• Check operation, condition and free play.			4
	• Adjust if necessary.
Clutch	• Check operation, condition and free play.	6-16
	• Adjust if necessary.
Throttle grip and housing	• Check for smooth operation.	6-23
	• Lubricate if necessary.
Engine oil	• Check oil level.	6-8 ~ 6-9
	• Fill with oil if necessary.
Drive chain	• Check chain slack and condition.	6-21 ~ 6-23
	• Adjust if necessary.
Wheels and tires	• Check tire pressure, wear, damage and spoke tightness.	6-13 ~ 6-15, 6-30 ~ 6-33
	• Tighten spokes if necessary.
Control and meter cables	• Check for smooth operation.	6-23
	• Lubricate if necessary.
Brake and shift pedal	• Check for smooth operation.	6-24
shafts	• Lubricate if necessary.
Brake and clutch lever	• Check for smooth operation.	6-24
pivots	• Lubricate if necessary.

4-1

PRE-OPERATION CHECKS

		ITEM	CHECKS	PAGE
		Center and sidestand	• Check for smooth operation.	6-24
		pivot	• Lubricate if necessary.
		Chassis fasteners	• Make sure that all nuts, bolts and screws are properly tightened.	—
			• Tighten if necessary.
		Fuel	• Check fuel level.	3-5 ~ 3-6
			• Fill with fuel if necessary.
		Lights, signals and	• Check for proper operation.	6-29 ~ 6-30
		switches
		Battery	• Check fluid level.	6-26 ~ 6-28
4
			• Fill with distilled water if necessary.

NOTE:

Pre-operation checks should be made each time the motorcycle is used. Such an inspection can be thoroughly accomplished in a very short time; and the added safety it assures is more than worth the time involved.

WARNING

If any item in the PRE-OPERATION CHECK is not working properly, have it inspected and repaired before operating the motorcycle.

4-2