Two-stroke oil and the YCLS pump
The RXZ burns its lubricating oil with the fuel, so the oil tank must never run dry. Use a quality two-stroke oil intended for air-cooled motorcycle engines (look for a JASO FC or FD rating) and top up whenever you refuel.
From 1990 the oil pump is managed by Yamaha’s YCLS. Make sure the pump cable is correctly adjusted and that the oil lines have no air bubbles or cracks — an oil-starved two-stroke can seize quickly.
Routine checks
Intervals depend on how and where you ride. Use the table as a starting point and follow your service manual or trusted mechanic.
| How often | What to check |
|---|---|
| Every ride | Two-stroke oil level, tyre pressure, lights, horn, brakes |
| Weekly | Chain tension and lubrication, brake fluid level, loose bolts |
| Monthly | Spark plug colour, air filter, battery terminals, cables |
| Every few thousand km | Gearbox oil change, carburettor clean, brake wear |
| Periodically | Decarbonise cylinder head, piston crown, exhaust port and silencer |
Carburettor and spark plug
A clean carburettor and the correct spark plug are the secret to crisp throttle response. Read the plug: a tan or light-brown tip is healthy, while black and oily deposits suggest a rich mixture or too much oil, and a white tip suggests a lean mixture that can damage the piston.
If the bike has been modified with a different exhaust or air filter, jetting may need to be adjusted by someone experienced with two-strokes.
Decarbonising the engine and exhaust
Two-strokes build up carbon on the piston, cylinder head, exhaust port and inside the silencer. Over time this robs power and causes pinking. Periodic decarbonising restores performance. On Catalyzer bikes, treat the catalytic converter with care and do not remove it.
Chain, brakes and tyres
- Keep the chain clean, lubricated and correctly tensioned; replace chain and sprockets together.
- Check the front disc pads and the rear brake for wear; renew brake fluid as recommended.
- Use tyres of the correct size, and check older tyres for cracks even if tread remains.
- Grease the swingarm pivot and steering head when servicing.
Rust protection and storage
- Wash off rain and road grime, then dry the bike — especially chrome, spokes and the exhaust.
- Park under cover; a breathable bike cover is better than a plastic sheet in humid weather.
- If storing for weeks, fill the tank to limit rust, and close the fuel tap if your bike has one.
- Start and ride the bike regularly so seals and the battery stay healthy.
Choosing parts
Genuine and quality replacement parts protect both reliability and resale value. Keep receipts and note what was replaced — buyers of RXZ motorcycles value a clear service history.
For advice on a specific bike, owners can ask other riders in the Maintenance & Repairs section of the RXZClub community (posting requires a free membership).
Last reviewed:
