Insert the key into the Yamaha Maxim's ignition and turn the key. The electrical systems on the bike should come on. If they do not, check the fuse box located behind the right side body panel. Replace any blown fuses and try again. If the electrical systems still do not come on, test the battery, as it may need to be recharged or replaced.
Open the filler cap on the gas tank and inspect the amount of fuel contained inside the tank. Locate the tank selector switch and confirm the switch is set to the main tank and not the reserve tank. The 1982 Yamaha Maxim has a small reserve tank that holds only 0.9 gallons of gas -- just enough to get you to the next station should you run out while on the road.
Locate and remove the spark plugs from the Maxim's engine. If the portion of one of the plugs that goes into the engine is very dark with carbon, it may be time to replace the spark plug. Use the correct spark plugs for the motorbike. Check the gaps with a gap tool; the gap is the small space between the bottom of the spark plug and the copper rod in the middle the spark plug. The gap setting for the 1982 Maxim is from 0.028 to 0.032 inches.
