Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle, popular for its rider-friendly nature, classic styling, and reliability.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow 250, Suzuki GZ250 Marauder, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though slightly larger).
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve, 60-degree V-twin.
Styling:
Classic cruiser styling with a low seat height, teardrop fuel tank, and plenty of chrome accents.
Accessibility:
Known for its ease of use and maneuverability, making it a good choice for new riders and urban commuting.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the 249cc V-twin engine, including valve adjustment, timing, piston/cylinder inspection, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor service (cleaning, adjustment, synchronization), fuel pump operation, fuel tank and lines maintenance.
Ignition System:
CDI unit testing, spark plug specifications, ignition coil testing, wiring diagrams for ignition components.
Transmission:
Clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift mechanism maintenance, transmission fluid checks.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, swingarm and rear shock absorber service, fork disassembly and rebuild.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement, brake fluid bleeding, disc and pad inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams for all electrical components, battery maintenance, starter motor service, charging system (alternator/stator), lighting system, switchgear.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement, proper tightening procedures.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel bearing inspection and lubrication, spoke tension adjustment (if applicable), rim specifications.
Suspension:
Front telescopic fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear dual shock absorber maintenance and replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, lubrication points, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and braking system malfunctions.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including engine rebuilds, carburetor tuning, and suspension overhauls.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, allowing for precise troubleshooting of lighting, ignition, and charging circuits.
Frame And Bodywork:
Instructions for removing and installing body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, and handlebars.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner-level maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.
Diagnostic Tools:
Specifies standard tools and techniques for diagnosis, including multimeter usage for electrical checks and feeler gauges for valve adjustments.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve, 60-degree V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Actuation:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder (2 per head)
Horsepower:
Approximately 18-20 HP at 7,500 RPM (rear wheel)
Torque:
Approximately 14-15 lb-ft at 6,000 RPM (rear wheel)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (e.g., Mikuni VM24SS or similar)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 3.2 US gallons (12 liters)
Overall Length:
Approximately 85.2 inches (2165 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 31.7 inches (805 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 43.9 inches (1115 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 58.7 inches (1490 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Seat Height:
Approximately 27.0 inches (685 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 322 lbs (146 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 342 lbs (155 kg)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for precise interval based on usage).
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change or as specified in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 6,000-8,000 miles (10,000-12,000 km) or annually. (Consult manual for exact interval and plug type).
Valve Clearance Check:
Initial check at 600 miles (1,000 km), then every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as specified. (Crucial for V-twin engine health).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 3,000 miles (4,800 km), clean or replace as needed. (More frequent in dusty conditions).
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.7 US quarts (1.6 liters) without filter change; 1.8 US quarts (1.7 liters) with filter change. (Always check dipstick/sight glass).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 recommended.
Transmission Oil:
Uses engine oil.
Carburetor Performance:
Can be prone to gumming up if fuel sits for extended periods; requires regular cleaning and synchronization for optimal performance.
Valve Stem Seals:
Over time, valve stem seals can degrade, leading to increased oil consumption or blue smoke on startup.
Clutch Slippage:
With high mileage, clutch plates can wear, leading to slippage, especially under acceleration.
Rear Shock ABSorbers:
Original rear shocks may lose damping effectiveness over time, affecting ride quality.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of motorcycles, marine products, and other motorized products. Founded in 1955, it has a long history of innovation and performance in motorcycling.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago 250 was a long-standing model in Yamaha's cruiser lineup, known for its reliable V-twin engine and accessible styling. It was later rebranded in many markets as the VStar 250 to align with Yamaha's cruiser branding strategy.
Original Production Start:
The Virago 250 model platform originated in the late 1980s.
Years Covered By Manual:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
