Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle, popular for beginners and urban riders due to its manageable size and user-friendliness.
Target Audience:
New riders, experienced riders seeking a lightweight cruiser, customization enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Eliminator 125/250, Suzuki GZ250 Marauder.
Virago Advantage:
Classic V-twin styling, comfortable ergonomics, Yamaha's reputation for reliability.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled V-twin, offering characteristic styling and sound.
Design Philosophy:
Low seat height, relaxed riding posture, classic cruiser aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving money and increasing understanding of their machine.
General Coverage:
All workshop repair procedures, engine rebuild, electrical systems, troubleshooting.
Specific Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Fuel System, Ignition System, Electrical System, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Bodywork.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive repair manuals of this era and scope).
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Repair Manual
Language:
English (assuming standard for most markets, though regional variations may exist).
Format:
Instant Download (Digital - PDF)
Engine Systems:
Cylinder head, valves, piston, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), carburetor assembly and tuning.
Transmission Systems:
Clutch operation and inspection, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, shift mechanism, final drive (chain).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank maintenance, fuel pump operation (if applicable), carburetor model (likely VM series), fuel filter, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing adjustment, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system, starter motor, horn, instrument cluster.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, tire and tube service, spoke maintenance.
Suspension Systems:
Front fork disassembly, seal replacement, fluid change, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake caliper maintenance, pad replacement, brake fluid flush and replacement, master cylinder service, brake lever adjustment.
Bodywork:
Fender removal, seat assembly, fuel tank removal and installation, side covers, handlebar replacement.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks and replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based fault finding.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly; carburetor rebuilding; gearbox overhauls; front fork rebuilds.
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring harness repair, component testing (e.g., stator, CDI unit), lighting system troubleshooting.
Performance Tuning:
Carburetor jetting recommendations (may be general), ignition timing adjustments for optimal performance.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic rider maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing using multimeters and specific fault finding charts.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, and electrical schematics crucial for accurate repair and understanding.
Searchable Text:
Yes (assuming a well-digitized manual).
Resolution:
High resolution for clarity of diagrams and text (typical for professional service manuals).
Usability:
Printable for workshop use, allowing users to have physical copies.
Physical Equivalent:
Likely perfect bound or comb-bound if printed.
Physical Equivalent:
Heavyweight, durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical for the XV250)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 18-20 hp @ 7,500 rpm (actual figures vary slightly by year and market).
Torque:
Approximately 19-21 Nm (14-15 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm (actual figures vary slightly by year and market).
Carburetor Type:
Single Mikuni VM26SS (or similar VM series) downdraft carburetor. Later models may feature dual carburetors, though less common for the 250cc version.
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 12.0 liters (3.2 US gal)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Oil Type Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SE, SF, SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40 is common. Check manual for exact specification).
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approximately 1.8 liters (1.9 US qt).
Overall Length:
Approximately 2170 mm (85.4 in)
Overall Width:
Approximately 780 mm (30.7 in)
Overall Height:
Approximately 1080 mm (42.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1485 mm (58.5 in)
Seat Height:
Approximately 710 mm (28.0 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 147 kg (324 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for motorcycles in this class; rider and passenger weight limits apply.
Fuel Capacity:
12.0 liters (3.2 US gal)
Front Tire Size:
3.00-18 4PR
Rear Tire Size:
130/90-15 M/C 66P
Wheelbase:
1,485 mm (58.5 in)
Wheel Type:
Spoked wheels with alloy rims
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to the same structured crash test ratings as automobiles. Safety is primarily derived from design, braking, and handling characteristics.
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake. Rear: Drum brake. (Note: Some later models may have a rear disc, but drum is standard for much of this period).
Suspension:
Telescopic front forks and adjustable rear shock absorbers provide stability and ride control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, brake light, and turn signals for visibility.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and comfortable riding position contribute to rider confidence and control.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (2,000-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for precise interval).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (4,000-6,000 miles) or annually. Replacement as needed.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles). Replacement as needed, check gap.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions. Adjustment required when slack exceeds specification (typically 20-30mm).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage, or per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SE, SF, SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (confirm with manual, generally DOT 3 for this era).
Fork Oil:
Yamaha Fork Oil 10W (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil). Capacity per leg specified in manual.
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Carburetor Issues:
Clogged jets due to stale fuel, pilot circuit issues leading to hard starting or poor idle. Manual provides cleaning and adjustment procedures.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on electrical connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults. Manual helps identify and repair these connections.
Fuel Line Degradation:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade over time, potentially leading to leaks. Manual details replacement procedures.
Clutch Slipping:
Wear on clutch plates or improper adjustment can lead to clutch slip. Manual covers inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various segments from sportbikes to cruisers.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market, characterized by V-twin engines and classic styling. The XV250 was a cornerstone of this line, offering accessible V-twin power.
Virago 250 Development:
The XV250 was designed to be a more accessible and user-friendly cruiser, making the V-twin experience available to a wider audience. It retained its core design and engine for a significant period.
V Star Rebranding:
In many markets, the XV250 was eventually rebranded as the V-Star 250, aligning it with Yamaha's newer cruiser branding while maintaining the same fundamental motorcycle.
Production Period:
The XV250 was produced for a long run, from the late 1980s through the mid-2000s, demonstrating its enduring appeal and design robustness.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Yamaha.
Market Perception:
Consistently praised for its reliability, ease of use, and value in the entry-level cruiser segment. Often cited as a great first motorcycle.
User Reviews:
High ratings in user reviews for longevity, low maintenance costs, and forgiving nature.
Manufacturing Standards:
Built to Yamaha's rigorous internal quality and safety standards, adhering to global motorcycle manufacturing regulations.
