🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XV250 Virago

Model Nickname:

Virago 250

Generation Identifier:

XV250 Gen 1

Chassis Code Primary:

3AJ

Engine Code Primary:

3LW

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Lightweight Cruiser Motorcycle

Target Demographic:

Entry-level riders, urban commuters, those seeking a stylish, manageable cruiser

Key Competitors:

Honda Shadow 400, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Intruder 250 (specific regional competition may vary)

Design Philosophy:

Classic American cruiser styling with Japanese engineering reliability

Engine Configuration Highlight:

V-twin engine, known for its character and torquey delivery

Accessibility For Riders:

Low seat height and manageable weight make it beginner-friendly

📋 Manual Details

Covered Model Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009

Region Of Origin:

Japan (primary engineering), Global distribution

Estimated Page Count:

350-450

Manual Category:

Workshop Service Manual (WSM)

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes (disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning)

Fuel System:

Yes (carburetor, fuel pump, lines, tank)

Ignition System:

Yes (CDI, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing)

Cooling System:

Yes (air cooling system components)

Transmission Drivetrain:

Yes (clutch, gearbox, final drive)

Suspension System:

Yes (front forks, rear shock absorber, linkages)

Braking System:

Yes (front disc, rear drum, hydraulic system)

Electrical System:

Yes (wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, charging system)

Chassis Frame:

Yes (frame inspection, components)

Bodywork Trim:

Yes (fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars)

Routine Maintenance:

Yes (oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment)

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Yes (fault finding, symptom analysis)

Component Overhaul:

Yes (engine, transmission, carburetor rebuilds)

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Yes (detailed schematics)

Torque Specifications:

Yes (critical fastener tightening values)

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced (including electrical diagnostics and component testing)

Rebuild Scope:

Complete (from minor adjustments to full engine and gearbox rebuilds)

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans

Print Readability:

Excellent (clear text and diagrams)

Physical Format If Applicable:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Physical Format Paper Type If Applicable:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Displacement:

249 cc (249cc)

Bore X Stroke:

54.0 mm x 54.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

Horsepower Estimated:

20-22 hp @ 7,500 rpm (approximate, varies by market and year)

Torque Estimated:

19-20 Nm @ 6,000 rpm (approximate, varies by market and year)

Carburetor Type:

Dual Mikuni VM24SS or similar (specific model may vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor

Fuel Tank Capacity:

12 Liters (3.17 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

2,150 mm (84.6 in)

Overall Width:

750 mm (29.5 in)

Overall Height:

1,055 mm (41.5 in)

Wheelbase:

1,485 mm (58.5 in)

Seat Height:

710 mm (28.0 in)

Dry Weight:

146 kg (321.9 lbs)

Wet Weight Estimated:

156 kg (343.9 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A (Motorcycles are not subject to automotive crash testing standards)

Braking System Type:

Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake

Lighting System:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight and indicators (depending on specific market/year)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Basic motorcycle, no advanced infotainment)

Rider Aids:

None (This model predates most modern electronic rider aids)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact specification)

Air Filter Inspection:

Every 3,000-6,000 km

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000-12,000 km

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (critical for V-twin performance)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF (check manual for precise recommendation)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 1.8-2.0 Liters (with filter change)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)

Coolant Type:

N/A (Air-cooled)

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can become gummed up over time, leading to hard starting or rough idle. Regular cleaning and adjustment are recommended.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

Some models may experience wear on the cam chain tensioner, leading to a rattling noise from the engine. This is addressed in the manual.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion or loose connections in the electrical system can cause intermittent faults, particularly on older models. Wiring diagrams in the manual are essential.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch plates can wear over time, especially with aggressive riding. The manual details clutch inspection and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Legacy:

Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance across various segments.

Xv250 Lineage:

The XV250 Virago, introduced in 1988, built upon Yamaha's Virago cruiser line, offering a smaller, more accessible displacement for riders.

Design Updates:

While the core design remained consistent for a long production run, minor updates included cosmetic changes, emission control improvements, and potentially slight variations in components across different model years and markets.

Production Period:

1988 - 2009 (as covered by this manual)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other Yamaha facilities globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

No major industry awards are typically cited for this specific model, but it was recognized for its value and styling in its segment.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally positive for reliability and ease of use in its class.

Emission Standards:

Complies with relevant emission standards for its production years, with later models likely incorporating catalytic converters or other emission control technologies.