🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

Virago 250

Model Variant:

Route 66

Year:

1988, 1990, 1995, 2005

Chassis Code General:

XV250

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level cruiser motorcycle

Key Competitors:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage 650 (though Virago 250 is smaller displacement)

Design Philosophy:

Classic V-twin cruiser styling, lightweight and user-friendly

Target Audience:

New riders, urban commuters, those seeking a stylish and economical cruiser

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1988, 1990, 1995, 2005

Covered Models:

Virago 250, Route 66

Estimated Page Count:

300-500

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, inspection, assembly, tuning

Transmission:

Gearbox operation, clutch, shift mechanism, maintenance

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Mikuni VM22SS) overhaul, fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines

Electrical System:

Ignition system, charging system, lighting, starter motor, wiring diagrams

Brakes:

Front disc brake, rear drum brake, hydraulic system, pad replacement

Suspension:

Front telescopic forks, rear dual shock absorbers, fork seals, spring rates

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, control levers

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, electrical issues, engine performance

Repair And Rebuild:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, carburetor reconditioning, suspension overhaul

Specifications And Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities

Carburetor Adjustment:

Detailed steps for idle speed, mixture screw, and synchronization (if applicable for twin carb models).

Valve Adjustment:

Clearance check and adjustment procedures, including required tools and specifications.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Tire pressure checks, tire replacement, wheel balancing, spoke tensioning (if applicable for spoked wheels).

Lighting System Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guidance for all lights, including bulb replacement and electrical checks.

Charging System Testing:

Testing stator output, regulator/rectifier function, and battery health.

Cooling System Checks:

Air cooling system efficiency checks, fin cleaning.

Exhaust System Maintenance:

Inspection for leaks, muffler condition, and baffle cleaning.

Frame And Suspension Alignment:

Checks for frame damage and ensuring proper suspension alignment.

Control Cable Adjustment:

Throttle and clutch cable adjustment procedures.

Steering Head Bearing Service:

Inspection, lubrication, and adjustment of steering head bearings.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for both amateur mechanics and professional technicians

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Includes systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based problem solving, and fault code interpretation (if applicable).

Component Diagrams:

Detailed exploded view diagrams for all major components, aiding in assembly and disassembly.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for easy identification and tracing of circuits.

Manual Purpose:

Designed for owners performing routine maintenance and minor repairs, as well as mechanics undertaking more complex diagnostics and rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality Recommendation:

High-resolution, suitable for printing key sections or the entire manual

Binding Type Recommendation:

Spiral-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment

Paper Type Recommendation:

Durable, grease-resistant paper for workshop durability

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, air-cooled, V-twin

Displacement:

249 cc (248.9 cc actual)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.1:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7,500 RPM (varies slightly by year/market)

Torque:

Approx. 19-20 Nm @ 6,000 RPM (varies slightly by year/market)

Carburetor:

Mikuni VM22SS (single) or twin VM18SS depending on year/market

Fuel Tank Capacity:

9.0 Liters (2.4 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multiple disc

Final Drive:

O-ring sealed chain

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios would be in the manual, e.g., 1st: 2.833, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.409, 4th: 1.150, 5th: 0.917

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2100 mm (82.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1050 mm (41.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1485 mm (58.5 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 157 kg (346 lbs) (with fluids)

Seat Height:

Approx. 720 mm (28.3 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Rating General:

As a motorcycle, subject to rider skill and adherence to traffic laws. No formal crash ratings like cars.

Braking System:

Front hydraulic disc, Rear drum brake

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Not applicable (basic motorcycle instrumentation)

Instrument Cluster:

Analog speedometer, odometer, tachometer (on some models), neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months

Chain Adjustment Interval:

Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or as needed

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)

Engine Oil Type:

Yamaha Genuine Oil 10W-40 SE, SF, SG or API Service SG classification or higher (e.g., Yamalube 4) or equivalent SAE 20W-40, 10W-30, or 10W-40 motor oil

Engine Oil Capacity:

1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt) without oil filter change; 1.5 Liters (1.6 US qt) with oil filter change

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 10W (205 cc per fork leg)

Common Wear Items:

Carburetor jets, fork seals, brake pads, clutch plates

Potential Engine Quirks:

Carburetor tuning can be sensitive to altitude and modifications; potential for valve seat wear over very high mileage if not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Motorcycle History:

Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance.

Virago Lineage:

The Virago line represented Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market, with the 250cc model being a popular choice for its accessibility and classic styling.

Production Period:

The Virago 250 was produced for an extended period, with the core design remaining consistent, though minor updates occurred.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards General:

While specific awards might be scarce for individual model years, the Virago 250 line was widely recognized for its value, reliability, and classic styling within the entry-level cruiser segment.