Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, those seeking a classic styling and manageable power
Competitors:
Honda Rebel series, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage LS650 (older models)
Styling:
Classic V-twin cruiser aesthetic, low seat height, comfortable riding position
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, V-twin engine known for its reliability and torque
Maneuverability:
Lightweight and agile, making it easy to handle in urban environments
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, performance tuning
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, lubrication
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm
Suspension:
Front forks (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder, fluid replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter motor
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine cooling principles
Exhaust System:
Muffler, exhaust pipes, heat shields
Bodywork Fittings:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, lubrication points, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Common problems, diagnostic procedures, fault finding charts
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, carburetor overhauls, suspension repairs
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific tasks
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin, air-cooled
Displacement:
249 cc (249cc)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical for XVS250)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7,500 RPM (varies slightly by year/region)
Torque:
Approx. 19-20 Nm @ 6,000 RPM (varies slightly by year/region)
Carburetion:
Mikuni VM26SS (or similar single carb) with accelerator pump
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 12 Liters (3.17 US gal)
Ignition:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt) (with filter change)
Oil Type Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF (check manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 2155 mm (84.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 760 mm (29.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1075 mm (42.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1485 mm (58.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 710 mm (28.0 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 130 kg (287 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 146 kg (322 lbs) (with fluids)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified by manufacturer, but rider + passenger + cargo capacity implied
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by consumer safety organizations like NHTSA/IIHS)
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake (typical configurations)
Tires:
Front: 3.00-18; Rear: 120/90-16 (typical sizes)
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, turn signals, brake light
Mirrors:
Standard handlebar-mounted mirrors
Display:
Analog speedometer, odometer, tachometer (on some models), and indicator lights
ABS:
N/A (Anti-lock Braking System not available on these models)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with engine oil change (if applicable, some models may have screen filters)
Spark Plug Inspection Replacement:
Inspect every 8,000 km (5,000 miles), replace as needed (refer to manual for specific gap)
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Clean every 8,000 km (5,000 miles), replace as needed
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Lubricate every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in the rain; Adjust slack every 4,000 km (2,500 miles)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or as recommended by manual
Fork Oil Change:
Recommended every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Engine Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Fork Oil:
Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent (refer to manual for exact type and quantity)
Carburetor Cleaning:
Periodic cleaning of the Mikuni carburetor is often needed due to gumming from fuel deposits, especially if the bike sits for extended periods.
Stator Reliability:
Some owners report stator failures, leading to charging system issues. The manual will cover testing and replacement procedures.
Clutch Cable Adjustment:
Proper clutch cable adjustment is crucial for smooth gear changes; the manual will detail the correct procedure.
Valve Lash Adjustment:
While generally robust, valve lash adjustment may be required at higher mileages; the manual provides the specifications and method.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer renowned for musical instruments and powersports vehicles.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago line was Yamaha's initial foray into the V-twin cruiser market, offering accessible styling and performance.
Virago 250 Development:
The XV250 Virago, which formed the basis for the Route 66 and later Virago 250 models, was introduced in the mid-1980s and remained largely unchanged for many years due to its enduring appeal and simplicity.
Route 66 Variant:
The 'Route 66' designation often signified a specific styling package, sometimes including different tank graphics or accessory options, targeting a younger demographic or a specific market segment.
Production Years:
The XV250 platform was produced for a long period, with variations and updates spanning from the late 1980s through the early 2000s, with the specific coverage in this manual focusing on key years within this range.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and/or other Yamaha global production facilities.
Award Type:
N/A (Motorcycles in this class typically do not receive formal industry awards like cars, but are recognized for their value and reliability).
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction for its ease of use, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
Certification:
Meets all relevant emissions and safety standards for its respective model years and markets.
