Positioning:
The Yamaha Virago 250 and V Star 250 are popular entry-level cruisers known for their reliability, user-friendliness, and classic styling. This manual is targeted at owners and independent mechanics seeking to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs.
Competitors:
Competes with models like the Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 250, and Suzuki Boulevard S40 in the lightweight cruiser segment.
Manual Value:
Provides dealership-level service information, enabling owners to save money on maintenance and repairs by performing tasks themselves.
Manual Advantage:
Authentic factory documentation ensures accuracy and completeness of procedures and specifications.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, specifications (carburetion, ignition, cooling, lubrication).
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, shifting mechanisms, clutch operation.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), battery, starter, fuses, switches, indicators.
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper overhaul, brake fluid replacement, master cylinder, hydraulic lines.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, seal replacement, oil levels and specifications. Rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, swingarm inspection and lubrication, wheel bearing maintenance.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, fenders, seat removal, fuel tank removal, cosmetic component maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake system checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems related to starting, engine performance, electrical issues, and braking.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls including engine internals, transmission, and suspension components.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, throttle cable adjustment, clutch cable adjustment, valve clearance adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and detailed electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Air-cooled, 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
Horsepower Approx:
18 HP @ 7,500 RPM
Torque Approx:
19.4 Nm (14.3 ft-lbs) @ 6,000 RPM
Carburetion:
Mikuni VM24 (single carburetor)
Fuel Capacity:
8.0 L (2.1 gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.4 L (1.5 US qt) without filter change, 1.6 L (1.7 US qt) with filter change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent.
Fork Oil Capacity:
177 ml (6.0 US oz) per fork leg.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, brake pad wear, fork seal leaks, carburetor jetting sensitivity to altitude/air filters.
Potential Failures:
Rarely, stator or regulator/rectifier issues can occur with age, impacting charging system performance. Carburetor float issues can lead to rich running or flooding.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for innovation and performance across various categories.
Virago Series:
The Virago line was introduced as Yamaha's cruiser offering. The 250cc model became a staple for its accessible nature and reliable V-twin engine, later evolving into the V Star 250.
Virago 250 Production:
The Virago 250 (XV250) was produced for many years, with the V Star 250 (XVS250) being a continuation and rebranding of essentially the same platform with minor cosmetic updates.
