🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

Virago 250

Model Code:

XV250

Model Generation:

First Generation

Vin Code:

JYA codes for Japan, 5A4 for international markets

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser/Custom Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Entry-level riders, custom enthusiasts, those seeking a classic cruiser experience.

Key Competitors:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though slightly larger displacement), Suzuki GZ250 Marauder.

Unique Selling Points:

Classic V-twin styling in a smaller, accessible package; reliable Yamaha engineering; customization potential.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides technicians and owners with the detailed, specific information required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Yamaha Virago 250 effectively, replicating factory service procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Covered Models:

All Virago 250 (XV250) variants

Geographic Coverage:

Covers specifications and procedures applicable to all global markets for the specified years.

Estimated Page Count:

300-500

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Authenticity:

OEM-equivalent factory service manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF - INSTANT DOWNLOAD)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), ignition system, fuel system (carburetor), exhaust system.

Transmission Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, gearbox, final drive (chain), shifting mechanism.

Chassis Suspension Systems:

Frame, front fork (telescopic), rear suspension (swingarm, dual shock absorbers), steering system.

Braking Systems:

Front disc brake, rear drum brake, brake fluid, hydraulic lines, caliper/drum maintenance.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, ignition coils, wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Mikuni VM series), fuel tank, fuel petcock, fuel filter.

Bodywork Fittings:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, footpegs, exhaust pipes, chrome trim.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks/replacement, chain adjustment/lubrication, brake fluid flush, air filter cleaning/replacement, carburetor synchronization and cleaning.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts for common problems, engine performance diagnostics, electrical system fault finding.

Repair Procedures:

Complete engine disassembly and reassembly, carburetor rebuild, clutch replacement, fork seal replacement, wheel bearing service, electrical component replacement.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timings, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component specifications.

Suspension Adjustments:

Front fork oil level and viscosity recommendations; rear shock pre-load adjustment (if applicable).

Wheel Tire Service:

Tire pressure specifications, tire inspection, wheel removal and installation, spoke tensioning (if applicable).

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Basic hand tools, torque wrench, feeler gauges, multimeter, carburetor synchronization tool (optional but recommended).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (OCR)

Printability:

High-quality for printing key sections or the entire manual

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC

Displacement:

248 cc (15.1 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Valve Actuation:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Valve Clearance Intake:

0.06 - 0.11 mm (Cold)

Valve Clearance Exhaust:

0.06 - 0.11 mm (Cold)

Horsepower Output:

Approx. 20-22 hp @ 7,500 rpm (varies by market and year)

Torque Output:

Approx. 19-20 Nm (14-15 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (varies by market and year)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor

Carburetor Model:

Mikuni VM22SS (single)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Gear Ratios:

Detailed in manual (specific ratios vary slightly by year, but generally consistent).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2190 mm (86.2 in.)

Width:

Approx. 760 mm (29.9 in.)

Height:

Approx. 1110 mm (43.7 in.)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1485 mm (58.5 in.)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in.)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 140 kg (309 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 148 kg (326 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 10 Liters (2.6 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Overview:

Standard motorcycle safety features. No specific crash test ratings applicable in the same way as cars.

Braking System Type:

Front disc, Rear drum

Tire Type:

Tubed

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight (some later models), incandescent turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Standard motorcycle instrumentation)

Rider Aids:

None (This is a traditional motorcycle)

Connectivity Features:

None (This is a traditional motorcycle)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Check Interval:

Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles)

Spark Plug Check Interval:

Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles)

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

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

Engine Oil Type:

Yamalube 4-stroke motorcycle oil or equivalent, SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.5 Liters (1.6 US qt) without filter change; 1.6 Liters (1.7 US qt) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 10W

Fork Oil Quantity:

Approx. 147 ml (4.9 US fl oz) per fork leg (check manual for exact spec).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates (especially with aggressive riding), carburetor jets/seals (clogging), fork seals (leaks), rear shock absorbers (loss of damping).

Electrical Concerns:

Aging wiring harnesses, regulator/rectifier failures (can be prone to overheating on some models), battery charging issues.

Carburetor Issues:

Difficult starting when cold, rough idle, hesitation, or sputtering due to clogged internal passages or worn O-rings.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Legacy:

Yamaha Motor Company is renowned for its innovation, performance, and reliability across a wide range of powersports vehicles, including motorcycles, ATVs, and personal watercraft.

Virago Lineage:

The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the V-twin cruiser market, known for its accessible styling and comfortable ride. The 250cc model specifically targeted newer riders and those seeking a lighter, more maneuverable cruiser.

Production Period:

1988-2007 (globally), with the manual covering 1989-2005.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other regions depending on the market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While the Virago 250 itself may not have specific individual awards listed, Yamaha as a brand has consistently received accolades for its engineering, reliability, and innovation in the motorcycle industry throughout the production run of this model.

Consumer Reviews:

Generally positive for its intended purpose as an accessible cruiser, praised for ease of use and classic styling.

Emission Standards:

Compliant with emission standards of its time, specific certifications vary by market and year (detailed in manual for specific regions).