Category:
Entry-level cruiser, lightweight motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, commuters, riders seeking a classic styling with manageable power.
Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though slightly larger displacement), Suzuki Savage 650 (older models).
Styling:
Classic cruiser aesthetics, comfortable riding position.
Reliability:
Known for Yamaha's reputation for durable and reliable powertrains.
Maneuverability:
Lightweight and nimble, making it easy to handle in urban environments and at low speeds.
Engine System:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, diagnostics, and component repair (carburetor, ignition, cooling, lubrication).
Transmission System:
Clutch, gearbox, drive shaft, and related components inspection, maintenance, and repair.
Chassis System:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorbers), steering, and wheel bearings.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake systems, including hydraulic components, pads, and fluid.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, lighting, starter motor, and indicators.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable), and carburetor systems.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, and mounting.
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, side covers, and other cosmetic components.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues and malfunctions.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, including piston, cylinder, valve train, and crankshaft.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing, and fault finding.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
File Type:
PDF (searchable text, high-resolution diagrams)
Quality:
High-resolution, clear diagrams, easy-to-read text.
Binding:
Spiral bound or Perfect bound (for printed versions, facilitating flat opening)
Paper:
Durable, grease-resistant paper suitable for workshop environments (for printed versions).
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.4:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 16-18 HP @ 7500 RPM (manufacturer specifications vary slightly)
Torque:
Approx. 17-18 Nm (12.5-13.3 lb-ft) @ 6000 RPM
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (likely VM22 or similar)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
8.2 L (2.2 gal)
Ignition System:
TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Cooling Method:
Air Cooling
Length:
Approx. 2195 mm (86.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1090 mm (42.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1490 mm (58.7 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 130 kg (287 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 143 kg (315 lbs) (with all fluids)
Payload Capacity:
Consult manual for specific rider and cargo limits.
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by governmental agencies in the same way as cars; safety relies on rider skill and adherence to maintenance.
Braking System:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake (typical for this model).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Frame Design:
Steel diamond frame contributing to stability.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 5,000 km (3,000 miles), clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), replace as needed.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Lubricate every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions; adjust slack as per manual specification (typically 20-30mm).
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 L (1.8 US qt) without filter change, 1.8 L (1.9 US qt) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
Not applicable (air-cooled engine).
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, chain and sprockets, clutch plates (with high mileage), carburetor jets can become clogged with fuel deposits.
Carburetor Tuning:
May require periodic adjustments or cleaning due to the V-twin nature and potential for vacuum leaks or fuel varnish.
Regulator Rectifier:
While generally reliable, like any electrical component, they can fail over time, impacting charging system performance.
Carburetor Sync:
Ensuring proper synchronization between the two carburetors is crucial for smooth engine operation.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Company, known for innovation and quality in motorcycles and other motorized products.
Lineage:
The Virago line has a long history of cruiser motorcycles; the V Star 250 is a modern iteration of the popular XV250 platform, evolving from earlier Virago models.
Key Changes:
Minor styling updates and emissions compliance improvements over the years, while retaining the core V-twin engine and cruiser architecture.
Production Period:
The XV250 platform has been in production for decades, with the V Star 250 designation becoming more prominent in recent years.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in Japan and/or other Yamaha global facilities.