Honda VFR800 VFR 800 Owners Maintenance Manual

Fluid Level Inspection Brakes

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . Wipe up spills immediately. Avoid contact
with skin or eyes. In case of contact, wash
If your inspection indicates a low fluid thoroughly and call a doctor immediately
level, have your Honda dealer add the if it contacts your eyes.
recommended brake fluid. RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(front brake)
Do not add or replace brake fluid, except
in an emergency. If you do add fluid, have (1)
your Honda dealer check the system as (1) LOWER level mark
soon as possible.
Servicing Your Honda 143
Brake f luid can damage plastic and
painted surf aces. Handle with care.

Brakes 3. Check the fluid level. It should be
between the UPPER ( 1 ) and LOWER
UNDER SEAT ( 2 ) level marks. If the level is at or
(rear brake) below the LOWER level mark, check
the brake pads for wear (page 145 ).
(1)
Worn pads should be replaced. If the
(2) pads are not worn beyond the
recommended limit, have your brake
(1) UPPER level mark system inspected for leaks.
(2) LOWER level mark
1. Place your motorcycle on its center Other Inspections
Make sure there are no fluid leaks.
stand on a firm, level surface. Check for deterioration or cracks in the
2. Remove the seat (page 90 ). hoses and fittings.

144 Servicing Your Honda

Brakes

LEFT FRONT (right side similar)

Brake Pad Wear (1)

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . REAR

Brake pad wear depends upon the severity (1)
of usage, the type of riding, and road (1) cutouts
conditions. Generally, the pads will wear
faster on wet and dirty roads. Inspect the Servicing Your Honda 145
pads at each regular maintenance interval
(page 82 ).

Always inspect both pads in both the right
and left front brake calipers.

Check the cutouts ( 1 ) in each pad. If
either pad is worn to the cutout, replace
both pads as a set. See your Honda dealer
for this service.

Brakes LEFT FRONT
(1)
Brake System Inspection
LEFT REAR
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .

1. Place the motorcycle on its center stand,
stop the engine, and place the
transmission in neutral.

2. Move the left caliper assembly ( 1 )
upward while slowly rotating the rear
wheel. The brake system is normal if
the rear wheel stops. If the rear wheel
does not stop, see your Honda dealer.

(1) left caliper assembly

146 Servicing Your Honda

To safely operate your motorcycle, your Tires
tires must be the proper type and size, in
good condition with adequate tread, and your air pressure, how to inspect your tires
correctly inflated for the load you are for wear and damage, and our
carrying. recommendations for tire repair and
replacement.
Using tires that are excessively
worn or improperly inflated can Air Pressure
cause a crash in which you can be
seriously hurt or killed. Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .

Follow all instructions in this Properly inflated tires provide the best
owner’s manual regarding tire combination of handling, tread life, and
inflation and maintenance. riding comfort. Generally, underinflated
tires wear unevenly, adversely affect
The following pages give detailed handling, and are more likely to fail from
information on how and when to check being overheated. Overinflated tires make
your motorcycle ride harshly, are more
prone to damage from road hazards, and
wear unevenly.

Servicing Your Honda 147

Tires ‘‘warm’’ –– even if your motorcycle has
only been ridden for a few miles –– the
We recommend that you visually check readings will be higher. If you let air out
your tires before every ride and use an air of warm tires to match the recommended
pressure gauge to measure the air pressure cold pressures, the tires will be
at least once a month or any time you underinflated.
think the tires might be low. Even tires
that are in good condition may lose one to The recommended ‘‘cold’’ tire pressures
two psi per month if not checked and are:
adjusted regularly.
front 36 psi (250 kPa ,
Tubeless tires have some degree of self- rear 2.50 kgf/cm )
sealing ability if they are punctured. 42 psi (290 kPa ,
However, because leakage is often very 2.90 kgf/cm )
slow, you should look closely for
punctures whenever a tire is not fully
inflated.

Always check air pressure when your tires
are ‘‘cold’’ –– after the motorcycle has
been parked for at least three hours. If you
check air pressure when your tires are

148 Servicing Your Honda

Tires

Inspection Also, if you hit a pothole or hard object
while riding, pull to the side of the road as
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . soon as you safely can and carefully
inspect the tires for damage.
Whenever you check the tire pressures,
you should also look for: Tread Wear
(1)
Bumps or bulges in the side of the tire
or the tread. Replace any tire that has a (2)
bump or bulge.
Cuts, slits, or cracks in the tires.
Replace the tire if you can see fabric or
cord.
Nails or other foreign objects embedded
in the side of the tire or tread.
Excessive tread wear.

(1) wear indicator
(2) wear indicator location mark

Servicing Your Honda 149

Tires

For the best performance, you should A temporary repair can sometimes be
made in an emergency situation.
replace a tire before the tread depth at the However, since a temporary repair may
not hold, you must ride very slowly,
center reaches the following limits: preferably without any cargo or passenger,
and have the tire replaced or permanently
front 0.06 in (1.5 mm) repaired as soon as possible.
(For more information on temporary
rear 0.08 in (2.0 mm) repairs, see If You Have a Flat Tire, page
188 .)
If the wear indicators are visible, replace
the tire immediately as it is no longer safe.

Tire Repair

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .

We strongly recommend that you replace,
not repair, any tire that is punctured or
damaged. As discussed below, a tire that is
repaired, either temporarily or
permanently, will have lower speed and
performance limits than a new or
undamaged tire.

150 Servicing Your Honda

A permanent repair, such as an internal Tires
plug patch, can be made if a tire has only a
small puncture in the tread area. With such Tire Replacement
a repair, you should not exceed 50 mph
(80 km/h) for the first 24 hours, or 80 mph Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
(130 km/h) at any time thereafter. In
addition, you may not be able to safely The tires that came on your motorcycle
carry as much weight. If you choose to were designed to match the performance
have a tire repaired, be sure the repair capabilities of your motorcycle and
work is performed by a professional and provide the best combination of handling,
that the wheel is balanced before you ride. braking, durability, and comfort.

If you have a tire professionally repaired
at a non-Honda facility, we recommend
that you have the work checked by your
Honda dealer.

Servicing Your Honda 151

Tires The recommended tires for your
motorcycle are:
You should replace the tires with tires of
the same size, load range, and speed rating front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
as the originals. BRIDGESTONE
BT020F BB
Installing improper tires on your DUNLOP D204FK
motorcycle can affect handling METZELER
and stability. This can cause a MEZ4A FRONT
crash in which you can be
seriously hurt or killed. rear 180/55ZR17M/C (73W)
Always use the size and type of BRIDGESTONE
tires recommended in this owner’s BT020R BB
manual. DUNLOP D204K
METZELER MEZ4A
152 Servicing Your Honda
type radial ply, tubeless

Whenever you replace a tire, remember:
Have the wheel balanced after the tire is
installed.
Have the tire replaced by your Honda
dealer if possible.

If you have a tire professionally replaced Tires
at a non-Honda facility, we recommend
that you have the work checked by your Servicing Your Honda 153
Honda dealer.

Important Safety Reminders
Do not install a tube inside a tubeless
tire on this motorcycle. Excessive heat
build-up can cause the tube to burst.
Use only tubeless tires on this
motorcycle. The rims are designed for
tubeless tires, and during hard
acceleration or braking, a tube-type tire
could slip on the rim and cause the tire
to rapidly deflate.
Do not install a bias-ply tire on this
motorcycle. Mixing bias-ply and radial
tires can adversely affect handling and
stability.

Side Stand Check the spring for damage or loss of
tension.
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . Check the side stand ignition cut-off
LEFT SIDE system:
1. Sit astride the motorcycle and put the
(1)
(1) side stand spring transmission in neutral.
2. Raise the side stand.
Check that the side stand assembly is 3. Start the engine.
working properly. If the side stand is 4. Pull the clutch lever in.
stiff or squeaky, clean the pivot area 5. Shift the transmission into gear.
and lubricate the pivot bolt with clean 6. Lower the side stand all the way.
grease.
The engine should stop as you lower the
154 Servicing Your Honda side stand. If the engine doesn’t stop,
see your Honda dealer for service.

An endless (riveted master link) chain Drive Chain
connects the countershaft and rear wheel
sprockets. The O-ring chain uses rubber Under severe usage, or when the
rings between the side plates of the pin motorcycle is ridden in unusually dusty or
and roller links to seal in the muddy areas, more frequent maintenance
manufacturer-installed lubricating grease will be necessary.
and keep out moisture and dirt.
Before servicing your drive chain, turn the
The service life of the chain depends on engine OFF, lower the center stand (page
proper lubrication and adjustment. Poor 64 ), and check that your transmission is
maintenance can cause premature wear or in neutral.
damage to the drive chain or sprockets.
It is not necessary to remove or replace the
The drive chain should be checked, drive chain to perform the recommended
adjusted, and lubricated as part of the pre- service in the Maintenance Schedule.
ride inspection (page 45 ).

Servicing Your Honda 155

Drive Chain 2. Check drive chain slack at several
points along the chain. The slack should
Inspection remain constant. If it isn’t, some links
may be kinked and binding. Lubricating
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . the chain will often eliminate binding
and kinking.
1. Check slack in the lower drive chain
( 1) run midway between the sprockets. 3. Inspect the drive chain for:
Drive chain slack should allow the damaged rollers
following vertical movement by hand: dry or rusted links
1 1 3/8 in (25 35 mm) kinked or binding links
excessive wear
LEFT SIDE improper adjustment
(1) damaged or missing O-rings

(1) drive chain

156 Servicing Your Honda

Replace the drive chain (page 161 ) if it damaged Drive Chain
has damaged rollers, loose pins, or sprocket
kinks that cannot be freed. Lubricate the teeth worn
drive chain (page 160 ) if it appears dry sprocket
or shows signs of rust. Lubricate any REPLACE teeth
kinked or binding links and work them
free. Adjust chain slack if needed. REPLACE
4. Inspect the front and rear sprocket teeth
for excessive wear or damage. If normal sprocket teeth
necessary, have your Honda dealer GOOD
replace a worn sprocket.

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

Servicing Your Honda 157

Drive Chain (2) The bottom part of the frame may be
damaged by excessive drive chain slack of
Wear Inspection more than:
LEFT SIDE 1 15/16 in (50 mm)

(3) Adjustment

(2) red zone Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
(3) tip of driven sprocket teeth
Drive chain slack should be checked and
Check the chain wear label when adjusting adjusted, if necessary, every 500 miles
the chain. If the red zone (2 ) on the label (800 km). When operated at sustained
aligns with the tip of driven sprocket teeth high speeds or under conditions of
(3 ) after the chain has been adjusted to frequent rapid acceleration, the chain may
the proper slack, the chain is excessively require more frequent adjustments.
worn and must be replaced. The proper
slack is:
1 1 3/8 in (25 35 mm)

158 Servicing Your Honda

LEFT SIDE (1) Drive Chain
(2) (3)
1. Place the motorcycle on its center stand
(1) bearing holder pinch bolt with the transmission in neutral and the
(2) bearing holder ignition switch OFF.
(3) pin spanner
2. Loosen the bearing holder pinch bolt
( 1 ).

3. Turn the bearing holder ( 2) clockwise
or counterclockwise to obtain the proper
chain slack with the pin spanner ( 3 ).

4. Torque the bearing holder pinch bolt to:
54 lbf·ft (74 N·m , 7.5 kgf·m)

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

5. Recheck chain slack.
Chain slack should be:
1 1 3/8 in (25 35 mm)

Servicing Your Honda 159

Drive Chain

Lubrication

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .

Lubricate every 500 miles (800 km) or
sooner if chain appears dry. Lubricant:
SAE 80 or 90 gear oil
Lubricate only with SAE 80 or 90 gear oil.
Commercial chain lubricants may contain
solvents which could damage the rubber
O-rings.

160 Servicing Your Honda

Removal, Cleaning & Drive Chain
Replacement
1. Clean the side surfaces of the chain
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . with a dry cloth. Use a high flashpoint
solvent such as kerosene not
Your motorcycle has an endless (riveted gasoline.
master link) type chain. It should only be Do not brush the rubber O-rings.
removed or replaced by your Honda dealer. Brushing will damage them. Use of a
solvent may also damage the O-rings.
The O-rings can be damaged by steam
cleaning, high pressure washers, and 2. Inspect the drive chain for possible
certain solvents. wear or damage.

Replace the drive chain if it has damaged
rollers, loose fitting links, damaged
O-rings, or otherwise appears
unserviceable.
Replacement Chain:
DID50VA8 or RK50HFOZ5

Servicing Your Honda 161

Battery If you do not expect to ride your
motorcycle for at least two weeks, we
Your motorcycle has a maintenance-free recommend you remove the battery –– or
type battery. You do not have to check the at least disconnect the battery cables
battery electrolyte level or add distilled (negative cable first).
water as you would with a conventional-
type battery. If you plan to store your motorcycle, see
Battery Storage, page 163 .
Your battery is a maintenance-f ree type
and can be permanently damaged if the If your battery seems weak and/or is
cap strip is removed. leaking electrolyte (causing slow starting
or other electrical problems), see your
Electrical accessories use current from the Honda dealer.
battery –– even when the ignition is OFF.
Limited operation also allows the battery WARNING: Battery posts, terminals
to discharge. If you have electrical and related accessories contain lead and
accessories on your motorcycle –– or do lead compounds. Wash hands after
not ride frequently, we recommend that handling.
you charge the battery frequently (see
Battery Charging, page 165 ).

162 Servicing Your Honda

Battery Storage Battery

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . Before you remove the battery, be sure to
read all the information that follows, as
If you plan to store your motorcycle, we well as the information on the battery
recommend you remove the battery and label.
store it where it can be charged at least
every 30 days to maintain its service life. The battery gives off explosive
hydrogen gas during normal
If you do not remove the battery, we operation.
recommend disconnecting the battery
cables (negative cable first). A spark or flame can cause the
battery to explode with enough
You will get the best storage results from force to kill or seriously hurt you.
removing the battery and slow (trickle)
charging it every 30 days (see Battery Wear protective clothing and a
Charging, page 165 ). face shield, or have a skilled
mechanic do the battery
maintenance.

Servicing Your Honda 163

Battery UNDER SEAT (6) (4)
(3) (1)
The battery is located in the battery box
below the seat. (5)
1. Remove the seat (page 90 ).
2. Remove the battery cover clips ( 1 ), (2)

then remove the battery cover ( 2 ). (1) battery cover clips
3. Release the rings and remove the rubber (2) battery cover
(3) rubber band
band ( 3 ). (4) negative ( ) terminal lead
4. Disconnect the negative ( ) terminal (5) positive ( ) terminal lead
(6) battery
lead ( 4 ) from the battery first, then
disconnect the positive ( ) terminal
lead ( 5 ).
5. Pull the battery ( 6 ) out of the battery
box.

164 Servicing Your Honda

6. Charge the battery (see following Battery
section), unless you have been riding
regularly. Battery Charging

7. Store your battery in an easy-to-reach Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
location off the floor, in an area (1)
protected from freezing temperatures
and direct sunlight. (1) ‘‘trickle’’ charger
Be sure to read the information that came
8. Clean the battery box after removing with your battery charger and follow the
the battery for storage. Dry the battery instructions on the battery. Improper
box and, if paint is missing, re-paint the charging may damage the battery.
area.

9. Slow charge the battery (see following
section) once every 30 days.

Servicing Your Honda 165

Battery

We recommend using a ‘‘trickle’’ charger
(1 ) for home charging. These units can be
left connected for long periods without
risking damage to the battery. However,
do not intentionally leave the charger
connected longer than the time period
recommended in the charger’s instructions.
Avoid using an automotive-type battery
charger. An automotive charger can
overheat a motorcycle battery and cause
permanent damage.

166 Servicing Your Honda

Frequent cleaning and polishing will keep Appearance Care
your Honda looking newer longer.
Frequent cleaning also identifies you as an Avoid products that contain harsh
owner who values your motorcycle. A detergents or chemical solvents that
clean motorcycle is also easier to inspect could damage the metal, paint, and
and service. plastic on your motorcycle.
If your motorcycle is still warm from
General Recommendations recent operation, give the engine and
exhaust system time to cool off.
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . Park in a shady area. Washing your
motorcycle in bright sunlight may cause
To clean your motorcycle, you may use: the finish to fade because water droplets
water intensify the sun’s brightness. Spotting
a mild, neutral detergent and water is also more likely because surface
a mild spray and wipe cleaner/ water can dry before you have time to
polisher wipe it off.
a mild spray and rinse cleaner/ Clean your motorcycle regularly to
degreaser and water protect surface finishes.

(cont’d)

Servicing Your Honda 167

Appearance Care

We recommend the use of a garden
hose to wash your motorcycle. High
pressure washers (like those at coin-
operated car washes) can damage
certain parts of your motorcycle.

High pressure water (or air) can damage
certain parts of your motorcycle.

After cleaning, inspect for damage,
wear, and leaks (fuel, oil, coolant, brake,
and clutch fluid).

168 Servicing Your Honda

Washing Your Motorcycle with a Appearance Care
Mild Detergent
scratches with a commercially-available
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . plastic polishing compound.
Take care to keep brake fluid or
1. Rinse your motorcycle thoroughly with chemical solvents off the fairing. They
cool water to remove loose dirt. will damage the plastic.
5. Clean the headlight, fairing, meter lens
2. Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a and other plastic parts using a cloth or
mild, neutral detergent, such as dish sponge dampened with a solution of
washing liquid or a product made mild detergent and water. When
especially for washing motorcycles or cleaning the plastic headlight lens, use
automobiles. more care because it will scratch easier
than a glass lens. Rub any soiled area,
3. Wash your motorcycle with a sponge or gently rinsing it frequently with fresh
a soft towel. As you wash, check for water.
heavy grime. If necessary, use a mild
cleaner/degreaser to remove the grime. If the inside of the headlight lens
appears clouded immediately after
4. Clean the windscreen with a soft cloth washing, it should clear after a few
or sponge and plenty of water. Dry with minutes of riding.
a soft clean cloth. Remove minor
(cont’d)

Servicing Your Honda 169

Appearance Care Spray Cleaning Your Motorcycle

6. After washing, rinse your motorcycle Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
thoroughly with plenty of clean water to
remove any residue. Detergent residue Avoid using spray cleaner products on the
can corrode alloy parts. tires or suspension components.

7. Dry your motorcycle with a chamois or Suggestions for using spray cleaner(s)
a soft towel. Leaving water on the follow:
surface to air dry can cause dulling and
water spots. As you dry, inspect for
chips and scratches.

8. Lubricate the drive chain to prevent
rusting.

9. Start the engine and let it idle for
several minutes. The engine heat will
help dry moist areas.

10. As a precaution, ride your motorcycle at
a slow speed and apply the brakes
several times. This will help dry the
brakes and restore normal braking
performance.

170 Servicing Your Honda

Motorcycle Condition Appearance Care
Dust and fingerprint smudges.
Light road grime. Recommended Cleaning
Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe the
Heavy grime. Oil leaks. Brake paint, chrome, glass, and clear plastic.
dust. Spray any difficult-to-reach or very dirty
areas with a spray cleaner/degreaser.
Dull, corroded chrome or Rinse and dry.
aluminum. Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe with
a non-abrasive cloth.
Use a spray cleaner/degreaser.
If necessary, rub with a sponge. Rinse and
dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe with
a non-abrasive cloth.
Apply a high quality chrome/aluminum
polish and wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.

Servicing Your Honda 171

Appearance Care

Painted Aluminum Wheel
Maintenance

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .

Aluminum may corrode from contact with
dirt, mud, or road salt. Clean the wheels
after riding through any of these
substances. Use a wet sponge and mild
detergent. Avoid stiff brushes, steel wool,
or cleaners containing abrasives or
chemical compounds.

After washing, rinse with plenty of water
and dry with a clean cloth.

If the paint is chipped, apply touch-up
paint.

172 Servicing Your Honda

Finishing Touches Appearance Care

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . If the frame has a chip that exposes the
metal, first apply primer (to prevent
After washing your motorcycle, consider corrosion) and then apply the touch-up
using a commercially-available spray paint. Several thin layers of touch-up paint
cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste are better than one thick coat.
wax to finish the job. Use only a non-
abrasive polish or wax made specifically Servicing Your Honda 173
for motorcycles or automobiles. Apply the
polish or wax according to the instructions
on the container.

If a surface on your motorcycle is chipped
or scratched, your Honda dealer has touch-
up paint to match your motorcycle’s color.
Be sure to use your motorcycle’s color
code (page 214 ) when you buy touch-up
paint.

174 Servicing Your Honda

Here’s a few helpful tips on how to store Tips
and transport your Honda, and how to be
an environmentally responsible Storing Your Honda ............................. 176
motorcycle owner. Transporting Your Motorcycle ............ 179
You & the Environment ....................... 180

Tips 175

Storing Your Honda Preparation for Storage

If you won’t be riding for an extended Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
period, such as during the winter,
thoroughly inspect your motorcycle and 1. Change the engine oil and filter (page
correct any problem before storing it. That 109 ).
way, needed repairs won’t be forgotten
and it will be easier to get your motorcycle 2. Make sure the cooling system is filled
running again. with a 50/50% antifreeze solution (page
114 ).
For more information about storage, refer
to the Honda Motorcycle Winter Storage 3. Fill the fuel tank. Make sure the fuel fill
Guide, available from your Honda dealer cap is properly installed.
(USA only).

We suggest you perform the following
procedures to keep your motorcycle in top
condition. These storage procedures will
reduce the deterioration that can occur
during storage.

176 Tips

4. To prevent rusting in the cylinders, Storing Your Honda
perform the following:
Remove the ignition coil connectors Reinstall the spark plugs, ignition
and ignition coils from the spark coils and ignition coil connectors.
plugs. Using tape or string, secure the 5. Remove the battery and charge it fully.
connectors to any convenient plastic Store it in an area protected from
body part so that they are positioned freezing temperatures and direct
away from the spark plugs. sunlight. Slow charge the battery (page
Remove the spark plugs from the 165 ) once a month.
engine and store them in a safe place. 6. Wash and dry your motorcycle. Wax all
Do not connect the ignition coils to painted surfaces. Apply rust-inhibiting
the ignition coil connectors. oil to the chrome pieces.
Pour a tablespoon (15 20 cc) of
clean engine oil into each cylinder (cont’d)
and cover the spark plug holes with a
piece of cloth. Tips 177
With the engine stop switch in the
RUN position, press the start button
several times to crank the engine and
distribute the oil.

Storing Your Honda Removal from Storage

7. Lubricate the drive chain (page 160 ). Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 .
8. Inflate the tires to their recommended
1. Uncover and clean your motorcycle.
pressures (page 148 ). 2. If your motorcycle has been stored for
9. Store your motorcycle in an unheated
more than four months –– change the
area, free of dampness, away from engine oil (page 109 ).
sunlight, with a minimum of daily 3. If your motorcycle has been stored for
temperature variation. more than two months –– ask your
10. Place your motorcycle on its center Honda dealer to drain and replace the
stand. Place a block under the exhaust fuel.
pipes exposed under the lower fairing to 4. Charge the battery (page 165 ) as
raise the front tire off the floor. required. Install the battery.
11. Cover your motorcycle with a porous 5. Lubricate the drive chain (page 160 ).
material. Avoid using plastic or similar 6. Perform a pre-ride inspection (page 45 ),
non-breathing, coated materials that then test-ride your motorcycle at low
restrict air flow and allow heat and speeds.
moisture to accumulate.

178 Tips

Transporting Your Motorcycle

If your motorcycle needs to be transported,
it should be carried on a motorcycle trailer,
or a truck or trailer with a flatbed area. For
information about 24-hour emergency
assistance, see page 241 (USA only). Do
not tow your motorcycle, as towing can
seriously damage the transmission.

When contacting a towing or transporting
service, be sure to ask if they have a
flatbed area, a loading ramp or power
ramp to safely lift the motorcycle, and
motorcycle tie-down straps.

Tips 179

You & the Environment Recycle Wastes. It’s illegal and
thoughtless to put used engine oil in the
Owning and riding a motorcycle can be trash, down a drain, or on the ground.
enjoyable, but you must do your part to Used oil, gasoline, coolant, and
protect nature. cleaning solvents contain poisons that
can hurt refuse workers and
Following are tips on how you can be an contaminate our drinking water, lakes,
environmentally-responsible motorcycle rivers, and oceans. Before changing
owner. your oil, make sure you have the proper
containers. Put oil and other toxic
Choose Sensible Cleaners. Use a wastes in separate sealed containers and
biodegradable detergent when you wash take them to a recycling center. Call
your motorcycle. Avoid aerosol spray your local or state office of public
cleaners that contain works or environmental services to find
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which a recycling center in your area, and to
damage the atmosphere’s protective get instructions on how to dispose of
ozone layer. Don’t throw cleaning non-recyclable wastes.
solvents away; see the following
guidelines for proper disposal.

180 Tips

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section discusses the more common General Guidelines............................... 182
problems that can occur with your If Your Engine Quits or
motorcycle while you’re riding. It tells Won’t Start ........................................... 183
you how to evaluate each problem and If You Have a Flat Tire ........................ 188
what actions you can take to try to resume If Your Engine Overheats .................... 199
riding. If the problem cannot be safely If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator
solved, this section also gives instructions Lights .................................................... 201
on the proper way to have your If a Fuse Blows..................................... 202
motorcycle transported. If You Crash ......................................... 207
If You Lose Your Key ......................... 208
For information about transporting your If Your Battery is Low (or Dead) ........ 209
motorcycle, see page 179 .

Taking Care of the Unexpected 181

Taking Care of the Unexpected

General Guidelines Should you ever have a problem while
riding, please follow these guidelines:
Keeping your motorcycle well-maintained
is the best way to reduce the possibility of Always put personal safety first.
having a problem on the road. However, Take time to assess the situation and
since problems can arise even with well- your options before deciding what to do.
maintained machines, you may consider If the problem is relatively minor and
subscribing to an emergency roadside you have the tools, supplies, and skills
service plan. (USA only: For information to make a temporary repair, be sure to
about the Honda Rider’s Club of America, have permanent repairs made as soon as
see page 241 .) possible.
Do not continue riding if you are hurt or
Remember to take along your owner’s your motorcycle is not in safe riding
manual, the tool kit that came with your condition.
motorcycle, and any other items (such as Additional recommendations for specific
tire repair supplies and additional tools) problems follow.
that might help you solve a problem on
your own.

182 Taking Care of the Unexpected

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Proper operation and maintenance can If your motorcycle won’t start, listen as
prevent starting and engine performance you press the start button. If you don’t
problems. In many cases, the cause of the hear the starter motor turning, refer to the
problem may be a simple operational Starter motor doesn’t operate symptom. If
oversight. you can hear the starter motor working
normally, refer to the Starter motor works,
If you have a problem starting the but the engine won’t start symptom.
engine or experience poor engine
performance the following information
may help you. If you can’t correct the
problem, see your Honda dealer.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 183

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

SYMPTOM: Starter motor doesn’t operate.

POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO

ignition switch OFF Turn the ignition switch ON.

engine stop switch OFF Turn the engine stop switch to RUN.

transmission not in neutral Shift into neutral.

side stand down (when Put the transmission in neutral or raise the side

transmission not in neutral) stand and pull the clutch lever in.

blown fuse Replace with a new fuse of the same rating (page
202 ).
battery lead loose Tighten the battery lead.
dead battery Charge the battery (page 165 ). If charging doesn’t
help, see your Honda dealer.
faulty starter motor If all possible causes are negative, the starter
motor may be faulty. See your Honda dealer.

184 Taking Care of the Unexpected

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

SYMPTOM: Starter motor works, but the engine won’t start.

POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO

out of fuel Fill the fuel tank.

flooded engine See F looded Engine (page 55 ).

loose or unconnected Install the ignition coil connectors and ignition coils

ignition coil connectors and securely. If the engine still won’t start, see your

ignition coils Honda dealer.

loose battery cables Tighten the battery terminal bolts.

weak battery Charge the battery (page 165 ). If charging doesn’t

help, see your Honda dealer.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 185

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but stalls as you shift into gear.

POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO

side stand down Raise the side stand. Start again.

SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly.

POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO

idles roughly, too fast, stalls Check engine idle adjustment (page 125 ). If the

problem persists, see your Honda dealer.

overheating Check the coolant temperature meter. Refer to If

Y our Engine Overheats, page 199 .

low oil pressure Check the low oil pressure indicator. Refer to If

the Low Oil Pressure Indicator Lights, page

201 .

runs erratically, misfires See your Honda dealer.

blubbers (rich fuel mixture) See your Honda dealer.

186 Taking Care of the Unexpected

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly. (cont’d)

POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO

sooty exhaust (rich fuel See your Honda dealer.

mixture)

detonates or pings under If applicable, switch to the recommended octane

load gasoline (page 100 ) or change your brand of

gasoline. If the problem persists, see your Honda

dealer.

afterfires (backfires) See your Honda dealer.

pre-ignition (runs on after See your Honda dealer.

ignition switched OFF)

Taking Care of the Unexpected 187

If You Have a Flat Tire or other qualified service facility. (USA
only: For information about 24-hour
A flat tire is always unwelcome, emergency roadside assistance, see page
especially if you are far from help. If you 241 .) Even with a simple puncture, this
think you are losing air, or you hit a may be the safest and least troublesome
pothole or hard object, pull safely to the solution. For transporting instructions, see
side of the road so you can inspect the page 179 .
tires and assess the situation. (Be sure to
park on a firm, level surface and use the Option 2:
side stand for support.) You should Make a Temporary Roadside Repair
examine the tire treads and sidewalls for If a tire has only a minor nail puncture and
foreign objects or damage. If you find a is not completely flat, you may be able to
tire that has been punctured or damaged, make an emergency repair that could
you have two options. allow you to continue riding to where you
can get the tire replaced or permanently
Option 1: repaired.
Have Your Motorcycle Transported
If a tire has a major puncture or a cut in
the tread or sidewall, or the bead has come
loose from the rim, there is probably not
much you can do except have your
motorcycle transported to a Honda dealer

188 Taking Care of the Unexpected

Riding your motorcycle with a If You Have a Flat Tire
temporary tire repair can be risky.
If the temporary repair fails, you repaired. Stop frequently and check the air
can crash and be seriously injured pressure. If the tire is losing pressure, it
or killed. may be unsafe to continue riding. As the
tire gets low, it will affect the handling of
If you must ride with a temporary your motorcycle (especially with a
tire repair, ride slowly and passenger and cargo) and it may overheat
carefully and do not exceed 30 and blow out.
mph (50 km/h) until the tire is
permanently repaired or replaced. Types of Temporary Repairs

Due to the uncertainty of any temporary The following types of temporary repairs
repair, you should ride slowly (not over generally require a source of air to inflate
30 mph, 50 km/h) and carefully the tire. Possible sources include CO2
(preferably without a passenger or cargo) cartridges or cans of compressed air
until the tire is replaced or permanently designed to inflate a tire.

Taking Care of the Unexpected 189

If You Have a Flat Tire Should You Repair or Replace a
Tire?
Inflate the tire: Tubeless tires have
some self-sealing ability if they are We strongly recommend that you replace,
punctured and the result is usually just a not permanently repair, any tire that is
slow leak. If this is the case, you can try punctured or damaged, even if the tire has
inflating the tire to see if it will hold air only a minor puncture. For a full
pressure. If you can see a nail or other discussion of repairs and replacement, see
object embedded in the tire tread, do not page 150 .
remove it at this time.
Plug the hole: The idea here is to do
something to temporarily stop the leak.
If you have a tubeless tire repair kit,
you can pull out the nail and try
inserting an external plug in the
puncture. Follow the instructions that
came with the repair kit and be sure to
inflate the tire to the correct pressure.

190 Taking Care of the Unexpected

Emergency Front Wheel If You Have a Flat Tire
Removal/Installation
3. Raise the front wheel off the ground by
Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 74 . lowering the center stand (page 64 ) and
placing a support block under the
We recommend wheel removal be done exhaust pipes exposed under the lower
only by your Honda dealer or another fairing.
qualified mechanic. Do not attempt to
remove the wheel on your own. Wheel LEFT SIDE
removal requires mechanical skill and (1)
professional tools.
(1) protective tape
Removal (cont’d)
1. Park your motorcycle on its center stand
Taking Care of the Unexpected 191
on a firm, level surface.
2. Cover both sides of the front wheel

with protective tape ( 1) or an
equivalent.

If You Have a Flat Tire

LEFT SIDE RIGHT SIDE

(2) (5)

(4)

(3) (6)

(2) A socket bolt (5) fixing bolts
(3) B socket bolt (6) right caliper assembly
(4) left caliper assembly
4. Remove the A ( 2 ) and B ( 3) socket

bolts and remove the left caliper
assembly ( 4) from the fork leg.

192 Taking Care of the Unexpected