HOW-TO: Spark Plugs replacement on your Yamaha R3

Changing the spark plugs on your motorcycle is vital to the overall service routine and should be done regularly. Yamaha recommends replacing the plugs at 7000 mi (11,000 km) and subsequently every 6000mi/10,000km). Since I am on the racetrack quite often in the summer months, I chose to replace my sparks at least once a season. If you are riding the bike on the street only, you can most likely get away with changing the sparks at the suggested mileage intervals (vs. yearly) 

The manufacturer model for the spark plug is NGK CR8E, and the recommended spark plug gap is 0.7 to 0.8mm (0.028-0.031 in). When installing the plugs, the recommended torque specs are 13Nm.  

I have selected the NGK CR8EIX (Iridium) for my bike since the Iridium plugs (or electrodes of the plug) offer better conductivity, but they will be a bit more expensive than the standard CR8E. You will find quite a few debates on the web about the benefits (and cons) of the iridium plugs, so it really comes down to a matter of preference. Regardless of your selection, replacing the spark plugs on your bike at regular intervals will provide a slight performance improvement. 

The process of replacing the plugs is relatively easy and does not require a lot of time. As with most projects, removing the tank (and fairings) is usually the time-consuming portion of this procedure.  

In this video, I will discuss the tools needed to gap the plugs. I will also show you how to remove the tank, access the plugs, and then how to replace them.

Happy wrenching!