🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

Virago 250

Model Code:

XV250

Engine Type:

V-twin, Four-stroke

Product Type:

Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Entry-level to mid-range cruiser, known for its user-friendliness and classic styling.

Competitors:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though slightly larger), Suzuki Savage 650 (larger displacement but similar niche).

Styling:

Classic cruiser aesthetics with a V-twin engine, teardrop fuel tank, and low seat height.

Target Demographic:

Beginner riders, those seeking an easy-to-handle and stylish motorcycle, riders looking for a cost-effective cruiser.

Value:

Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on labor costs and extending the lifespan of the motorcycle.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1988-2009

Pages:

Hundreds (specific number not provided, but implied to be extensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, diagnostics, and repair of the V-twin engine.

Fuel System:

Carburetor service, adjustment, rebuilding; fuel tank, fuel pump, and fuel lines.

Ignition System:

CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, wiring, and timing adjustments.

Transmission:

Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch service, and related components.

Cooling System:

Air cooling system inspection and maintenance.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, and switches.

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame inspection, front fork service, rear shock absorber replacement, steering head bearing maintenance.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system inspection, service, fluid replacement, caliper and master cylinder rebuilds.

Wheels And Tires:

Tire inspection and replacement, wheel bearing service, spoke tension adjustment (if applicable).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection and replacement.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, and other body components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Detailed instructions for complete teardown and reassembly of all major components.

Rebuilds:

Engine, transmission, carburetor, brake caliper, and master cylinder rebuild procedures.

Adjustments:

Carburetor idle speed, ignition timing, valve clearance, clutch and brake lever free play.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Using a multimeter, testing circuits, components, and diagnosing electrical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Crucial torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (typically for well-produced PDFs).

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF).

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Configuration:

249cc, 60-degree V-twin, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Horsepower:

Approximately 18-20 HP (varies slightly by year and tuning)

Torque:

Approximately 19-20 Nm (14-15 lb-ft)

Carburetor Type:

Single Mikuni BS30 (30mm) or similar

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 9.0 - 12.0 Liters (depending on model year variations)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manual, typically 87 or higher)

Oil Type:

Yamalube (or equivalent) 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.4 - 1.6 Liters (with filter change)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Constant mesh, 5-speed

Clutch:

Wet, multiple disc

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in the manual.

Transmission Oil Type:

Yamalube Gear Oil (or equivalent) 80W-90 API GL-4.

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.75 Liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,155 mm (84.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,110 mm (43.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,485 mm (58.5 in)

Seat Height:

Approx. 720 mm (28.3 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 154 kg (340 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not applicable for motorcycles in the same manner as automobiles.

Braking System:

Front: Disc brake, Rear: Drum brake (some later models may have front ABS option, verify specific year).

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light (depending on year).

Frame Construction:

Steel, double-cradle frame for stability.

Tires:

Tubed tires, specific sizes and pressure charts in manual.

💡 Technology Features

System:

Not applicable (basic motorcycle with analog instrumentation).

Features:

Not applicable (no advanced electronic rider aids).

Features:

Not applicable.

Dashboard:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (on some models), odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,000-7,500 miles).

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,000-7,500 miles).

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA.

Transmission Oil Spec:

SAE 80W-90 API GL-4.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Carburetor Icing:

Can occur in cold, humid conditions, affecting engine performance. Manual provides diagnosis and fixes.

Starter Clutch Wear:

Some models might experience wear on the starter clutch, leading to grinding noises. Manual covers replacement.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

May require adjustment or replacement over time, indicated by engine noise. Manual details this procedure.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Legacy:

Yamaha Motor Corporation is renowned for its innovation in motorcycles, musical instruments, and other motorized products, with a strong reputation for quality and performance.

Virago Lineage:

The Virago line was Yamaha's cruiser offering, emphasizing style and comfort. The XV250 was a long-running model known for its accessibility and reliability.

Production Period:

Introduced in the late 1980s and continued production through 2009, with minor updates across its lifecycle.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Accolades:

While not typically associated with specific 'awards' in the automotive press like cars, the Virago 250 has received consistent praise for its reliability, ease of use, and classic styling, making it a popular choice for new riders and budget-conscious cruisers for decades.