🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

Virago 250 / V Star 250

Model Year:

2008

Sub Models Covered:

XV250, XV250B

Vin Code:

XV250

Engine Code:

250cc V-twin

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level cruiser motorcycle, popular for new riders and urban commuting due to its manageable size and approachable power delivery.

Target Audience:

Beginner riders, commuters, riders seeking a classic styling with modern reliability, customization enthusiasts.

Direct Competitors:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though larger), various smaller displacement cruisers from other brands.

Styling:

Classic cruiser aesthetics with a low seat height, teardrop fuel tank, and spoked wheels.

Engine Layout:

Air-cooled, 249cc, SOHC, 2-valve-per-cylinder, V-twin engine providing characteristic V-twin rumble and accessible torque.

Transmission:

Smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission.

Reliability:

Yamaha's reputation for robust engineering and reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Chassis, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated, as exact count not provided in product info)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components including cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, and timing.

Fuel System:

Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and troubleshooting (likely Mikuni VM series); fuel pump operation and inspection; fuel tank and lines.

Ignition System:

CDI ignition system, spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring diagrams, timing verification, troubleshooting.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Gearbox inspection, repair, and maintenance; clutch operation, adjustment, and replacement; final drive (chain) maintenance and inspection.

Suspension Steering:

Front fork overhaul, fluid replacement, seal replacement; rear shock absorber inspection and replacement; steering head bearing maintenance and adjustment.

Brake System:

Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, brake fluid bleeding, brake hose inspection and replacement, master cylinder inspection.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams for lighting, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), instruments, and accessories; troubleshooting electrical faults.

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, bolt torques, side stand, center stand (if applicable), wheel bearing maintenance, tire specifications.

Bodywork:

Fender removal/installation, fuel tank removal/installation, seat removal/installation, minor body panel adjustments.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid replacement, coolant checks (if liquid-cooled variant exists, though 250 is air-cooled).

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues like starting problems, poor running, electrical faults, and braking system malfunctions.

Engine Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for complete engine teardown, component measurement, and reassembly to factory specifications.

Suspension Overhaul:

Detailed steps for servicing front forks and rear shock absorbers, including seal replacement and fluid changes.

Brake System Service:

Procedures for brake fluid flushing, caliper servicing, and master cylinder rebuilds.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Step-by-step guides for diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams and multimeter testing.

Clutch Adjustment Replacement:

Instructions for cable adjustment and clutch plate replacement.

Carburetor Tuning:

Guidance on setting idle speed, mixture, and jetting for optimal performance and emissions.

Depth Level:

Factory level, suitable for dealership technicians and experienced home mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls.

Torque Specifications:

Inclusion of all critical torque values for engine, chassis, and suspension components.

Diagnostic Charts:

Likely includes diagnostic flowcharts for common problems.

Special Tools:

Identification of any specialized tools required for specific procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printable:

Printable for physical use.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, 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 Configuration:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Horsepower:

Approximately 16-18 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)

Torque:

Approximately 14-16 lb-ft (at crankshaft, estimated)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (likely Mikuni VM32SS or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane

Fuel Tank Capacity:

12.0 liters (3.2 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Constant mesh, 5-speed

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Drive Type:

Chain drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2200 mm (86.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 760 mm (29.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1095 mm (43.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1490 mm (58.7 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 160 mm (6.3 in)

Seat Height:

Approx. 705 mm (27.8 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 139 kg (306 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs) (with all fluids)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycle safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to traffic laws. Specific crash test ratings are not typically applicable in the same way as automobiles.

Braking System:

Hydraulic front disc brake and rear drum brake provide reliable stopping power.

Lighting:

Standard headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals for visibility.

Frame Construction:

Steel frame provides a robust foundation for rider stability.

Tire Design:

Spoked wheels with tube-type tires, typical for the cruiser segment, offering a classic look and ride.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A - This model predates integrated infotainment systems. Relies on analog instrumentation.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A - Basic motorcycle, no electronic rider aids.

Connectivity Options:

N/A - No integrated connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 km (2,000 miles) or 6 months.

Oil Filter Replacement:

Every 6,000 km (4,000 miles) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months.

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 3,000 km (2,000 miles) or 6 months.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years or as needed, per manual instructions.

Clutch Adjustment:

Check and adjust as needed every 3,000 km (2,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

1.40 L (1.5 US qt) without filter change; 1.60 L (1.7 US qt) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Fork Oil Type:

Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent.

Fork Oil Quantity:

198 ml (6.7 US oz) per fork leg (check manual for exact specification).

Carburetor Clogging:

Common with older carbureted bikes, especially if fuel sits for extended periods. Regular use and fuel stabilizer can mitigate this.

Clutch Cable Wear:

Clutch cable can stretch or wear over time, requiring adjustment or replacement.

Rear Shock Wear:

Rear shock absorbers can lose damping ability with age and mileage.

Charging System Maintenance:

Regular checks of battery voltage and charging system output are recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long-standing reputation for building high-quality, reliable, and innovative motorcycles across various genres.

Virago Legacy:

The Virago line was Yamaha's foray into the V-twin cruiser market, known for its accessible styling and rider-friendly ergonomics. The 250cc variant specifically catered to the entry-level segment.

V Star Rebranding:

In later years, Yamaha consolidated many of its cruiser models under the 'V Star' moniker. The Virago 250 was rebadged as the V Star 250, maintaining the same core mechanicals but with updated branding and minor styling tweaks.

Original Production Start:

The Virago 250 was initially introduced in the late 1980s and has remained in production with minimal changes, testament to its enduring design and appeal.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and/or other Yamaha global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award History:

While specific awards for the 2008 model year are not widely documented, the Virago/V Star 250 platform has consistently been praised for its value, reliability, and suitability as an entry-level motorcycle by motorcycle publications and rider communities.