Category:
Lightweight Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, commuters, touring enthusiasts looking for a reliable and easy-to-handle motorcycle
Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Eliminator 125/250, Suzuki GZ250
Bike Characteristics:
Torque-rich V-twin engine, comfortable riding position, classic cruiser styling, user-friendly operation
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the Virago 250 across multiple key production years, enabling owners to perform routine tasks and complex repairs with confidence.
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, carburetor tuning, valve adjustment, ignition system, cooling system (air-cooled specifics)
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/reassembly, shifting mechanisms
Chassis:
Frame inspection, suspension (forks, rear shocks), steering system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, ignition, starter motor, fuses
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic/cable), fluid replacement, pad/shoe inspection and replacement
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable), carburetor maintenance and cleaning
Exhaust:
Exhaust system components, inspection for leaks and damage
Bodywork:
Fender, fuel tank, seat, side covers, handlebars, controls
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (starting issues, poor running, electrical faults)
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Engine Rebuild:
Piston removal, ring replacement, cylinder head work, gasket replacement
Carburetor Rebuild:
Disassembly, cleaning, jet replacement, float adjustment
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit tracing using wiring diagrams
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber adjustments
Level:
Expert (suitable for home mechanics to professional technicians)
Detail Level:
Comprehensive, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (248.9 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (approximate)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7500 RPM (varies slightly by year)
Torque:
Approx. 14-16 lb-ft @ 6000 RPM (varies slightly by year)
Carburetor:
Mikuni BS26 (single, constant velocity)
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank (typically with vacuum-operated petcock)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (RON+MON)/2 = 87 AKI
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed through rider experience and handling, not standardized crash ratings like cars).
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake, Rear: Drum brake (some later models may have optional rear disc)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light, incandescent turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, Double-cradle frame
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic motorcycle, no infotainment system)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Basic motorcycle, no electronic driver assistance)
Connectivity Options:
N/A (Basic motorcycle, no electronic connectivity)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months
Oil Filter Change:
With every oil change
Valve Check Adjustment:
Every 6,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 600 miles or after washing/rain
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-30 API SE, SF, SG or higher; JASO MA
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt) without filter change; 1.6 Liters (1.7 US qt) with filter change
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic systems, if applicable)
Common Problems:
Carburetor clogging due to infrequent use or stale fuel, minor electrical connector corrosion, occasional drive chain wear issues, starter motor solenoid failure.
Preventative Measures:
Regular fuel system cleaning, use of fuel stabilizer for storage, diligent chain maintenance, keeping electrical connections clean and protected.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, is renowned for its innovation, performance, and diverse range of motorcycles, from sportbikes to cruisers.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market, emphasizing V-twin engines and classic styling. The 250cc model was popular for its approachability and reliability.
Route 66 Variant:
The 'Route 66' designation typically signified specific cosmetic enhancements, often including unique paint schemes and badging, evoking the iconic American highway, particularly for the earlier models.
Production Years:
Originally launched in the mid-1980s, with continuous updates and variants produced through the 2000s.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
Motorcycle Awards:
While specific awards for the Virago 250 are not widely documented, it consistently received praise for its reliability, affordability, and suitability for new riders in its class.
Reliability Perception:
High reliability and durability, often cited as a dependable starter motorcycle.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with relevant emissions standards for its respective production years (e.g., EPA, CARB for US models).