Market Positioning:
The Yamaha FJ1200 was a flagship sport-touring motorcycle, known for its powerful engine, comfortable ergonomics, and long-distance capability. This manual is essential for owners seeking to maintain and repair this capable machine.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed with other large-displacement sport-touring bikes of its era, such as the Kawasaki ZX10 Tomcat, Suzuki GSX1100F Katana, and Honda CB1000F. Its shaft drive offered a maintenance advantage over chain-driven competitors.
Key Selling Points Of Bike:
Torquey 1198cc inline-four engine, comfortable riding position, shaft drive for low maintenance, potent braking system, advanced (for its time) suspension.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, factory-level guidance for all aspects of FJ1200 ownership, enabling cost-effective maintenance and reliable operation. Offers a full refund if unsatisfied, indicating confidence in its quality.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, and troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly, inspection, and repair
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, final drive unit
Suspension:
Front fork (air assist on some models), rear monoshock absorber, linkage, spring rates, damping adjustments
Brakes:
Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, master cylinders, brake lines, fluid bleeding, ABS (on later models)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter motor, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, fuses, relays
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, handlebars
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire sizes, pressure specifications, wheel balancing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, chain adjustment (if applicable, though FJ1200 is shaft drive), fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults
Rebuilding And Overhaul:
Detailed steps for engine rebuilds, carburetor rebuilds, brake caliper overhauls, transmission repairs
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, carburetor synchronization, ignition timing adjustments, suspension adjustments
Torque Specifications:
Crucial torque values for all fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Special Tool Identification:
Mention of specific tools required for certain procedures
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic user maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Air-cooled, DOHC, Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1198 cc (73.1 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
73.0 mm x 71.5 mm (approximate, may vary slightly by year)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical for the era)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Power Output:
Approximately 125-130 hp @ 8500 rpm (market dependent)
Torque Output:
Approximately 107 Nm (79 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Four Mikuni CV carburetors (e.g., VM29SS or similar)
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 22 liters (5.8 US gallons)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (AKI) or higher
Overall Length:
Approx. 2215 mm (87.2 in) (varies by year)
Overall Width:
Approx. 775 mm (30.5 in) (varies by year)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1275 mm (50.2 in) (varies by year)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1495 mm (58.9 in) (varies by year)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 240 kg (529 lbs) (varies by year)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 260 kg (573 lbs) (varies by year, with fluids)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is primarily assessed through rider skill and proactive maintenance. This manual aids in ensuring the bike is in optimal safe operating condition.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Later models (e.g., 1991 onwards) offered Yamaha's Anti-lock Brake System (Y-ABS) as an option.
Suspension Control:
Adjustable front forks (air assist and damping) and adjustable rear monoshock absorber allow tuning for stability and handling.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals, and brake lights for visibility.
Chassis Design:
Strong steel frame designed for stability at high speeds and across various road conditions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (typical recommendation, refer to manual for exact spec).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles (critical for engine health).
Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles or as needed based on riding conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 or 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil (API SE, SF, SG classification recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 liters (3.6 US qt) without filter change, 3.7 liters (3.9 US qt) with filter change. Check dipstick/sight glass.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Yamaha GL-4 hypoid gear oil or equivalent SAE 80W-90.
Common Wear Items:
Stator failure (common on many Yamahas of this era), regulator/rectifier failure, carburetors requiring synchronization and cleaning, potential for cam chain rattle if not maintained.
Suspension Wear:
Front fork seals can leak, rear shock absorber damping may degrade over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded connections, aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Manual is crucial for diagnosing these.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich history of innovation in motorcycles, from racing dominance to iconic street bikes. Known for performance and reliability.
Fj1200 Development:
Evolved from the FJ1100, the FJ1200 represented an enhancement of Yamaha's sport-touring prowess, offering increased displacement and refined handling for its time.
Generations And Updates:
The FJ1200 saw several updates during its production run, including revised fairings, improved suspension components, and the introduction of ABS on later models, catering to evolving rider needs and safety standards.
Production Years:
1984-1996 (with the 1984-1993 range being the primary focus of this manual)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation