Segment:
Lightweight cruiser, entry-level motorcycle
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, urban commuters, riders seeking an economical and easy-to-handle motorcycle
Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Suzuki GZ250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (in terms of cruiser segment, though displacement differs)
Engine Configuration:
V-twin, air-cooled engine for classic cruiser styling and sound
Style:
Classic cruiser styling with low seat height and comfortable riding position
Accessibility:
Renowned for its user-friendliness and ease of operation
Applicable Years:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Estimated Pages:
~300-400 pages (typical for this class)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, component identification, troubleshooting
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch service, shift mechanism
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel pump, fuel lines, tank maintenance
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, starting system, instrumentation
Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, adjustment
Brakes:
Front disc brake service, rear drum brake maintenance, hydraulic system bleeding, pad replacement
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifications, cylinder head cooling fins
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat, fenders
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire pressure specifications, wheel removal/installation
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug checks, brake adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom analysis
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component overhaul and replacement
Assembly Disassembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly guides for major components
Torque Specifications:
Crucial torque values for critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step illustrations
Engine Type:
4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 2-valve per cylinder
Displacement:
249 cc (248.9 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Clearance Intake:
0.08 - 0.13 mm (cold)
Valve Clearance Exhaust:
0.10 - 0.15 mm (cold)
Idle Speed:
1300 - 1500 rpm
Horsepower Estimate:
~16-18 HP @ 7500 rpm (typical for the era and class)
Torque Estimate:
~18-20 Nm @ 6000 rpm (typical for the era and class)
Fuel Delivery:
Mikuni VM26 carburetor (single)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
12.0 liters (3.2 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (90+ octane recommended)
Carburetor Jetting Main:
122.5 (example, consult manual for exact spec)
Carburetor Jetting Pilot:
17.5 (example, consult manual for exact spec)
Type:
Constant mesh 5-speed
Clutch:
Wet, multiple-disc
Gear Ratios:
1st: 2.833, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.348, 4th: 1.125, 5th: 0.960 (typical values, consult manual for precise ratios)
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamaha Gear Oil SAE 80 or equivalent API GL-4
Transmission Oil Capacity:
1.0 Liter (1.1 US qt)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle, not subjected to automotive crash tests)
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake, Rear: Drum brake
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light
Frame Construction:
Steel diamond frame
Mirrors:
Standard handlebar-mounted mirrors
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or as needed
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Engine Oil Grade:
Yamalube 4 (SAE 10W-40) or equivalent API SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL or higher, JASO MA certified
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
1.40 Liters (1.5 US qt)
Engine Oil Capacity Wo Filter:
1.30 Liters (1.4 US qt)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap)
Carburetor Performance:
Occasional tuning or cleaning may be required due to its age and simple design
Clutch Slippage:
Can occur with high mileage or aggressive riding, manual details adjustment and replacement
Vibration:
Some degree of engine vibration is inherent to V-twin engines, but excessive vibration can indicate issues addressed in the manual
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Company, established 1955, known for innovation in musical instruments and motorcycles
Predecessor:
Direct evolution of the Virago 250 (XV250), which debuted in 1988
Design Philosophy:
Continued the legacy of the Virago 250 with minor cosmetic updates and adherence to emissions standards over the years
Production Start Year:
1988 (as Virago 250)
Production Period Covered:
1988 - Present (with model name changes and minor updates)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other regions
Segment Awards:
Consistently recognized for its value, reliability, and ease of use in the entry-level cruiser segment
Reliability Reputation:
Excellent, often praised for its robust and forgiving nature
Emissions Compliance:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the model years covered
