🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XV250 Virago

Common Name:

XV250 Virago

Chassis Code Prefix:

3LW

Engine Code Prefix:

3LW

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Lightweight cruiser motorcycle, popular for beginners and urban commuting.

Competitors Historical:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though larger), Suzuki Savage 650 (also larger but similar cruiser ethos).

Design Philosophy:

Classic V-twin cruiser styling, comfortable ergonomics, reliable shaft drive, accessible seat height.

Target Audience:

New riders, city dwellers, riders seeking a low-maintenance, stylish cruiser.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1988-2008

Estimated Pages:

300+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, troubleshooting, component replacement (e.g., pistons, rings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, bearings).

Fuel System:

Carburetor overhaul, jetting, synchronization, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement.

Ignition System:

CDI unit, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing adjustments, troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Gearbox disassembly/assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, shift mechanism.

Drivetrain:

Final drive (bevel gear) inspection and maintenance, shaft drive system.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic system bleeding, pad/shoe replacement, caliper/master cylinder overhaul.

Suspension:

Front fork overhaul and oil change, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, switches, fuses, starter motor.

Cooling System:

Air-cooled engine specifics, cylinder head fin cleaning.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, fairing and panel removal/installation, seat, fenders.

Wheels And Tires:

Tire pressure, wheel bearing inspection, spoke adjustment (if applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification and solutions for starting, running, and electrical issues.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed steps for full engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Carburetor Tuning:

Mixture adjustment, idle speed setting, synchronization procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Using multimeters, interpreting wiring diagrams, tracing faults.

Brake System Service:

Bleeding procedures, component replacement, hydraulic system maintenance.

Suspension Adjustment:

Fork oil changes, rear shock adjustment (if applicable).

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and electrical system overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Basic hand tools, torque wrench, multimeter, feeler gauges, specialized tools (e.g., carburetor synchronizer, valve spring compressor - often noted if needed).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High (suitable for clear diagrams and text)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, 70-degree V-twin

Displacement:

234 cc (cubic centimeters)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder

Cooling Method:

Forced air cooling

Horsepower Estimate:

Approx. 16-18 HP (at 7,500 rpm)

Torque Estimate:

Approx. 1.8 kgf-m (13 lb-ft) (at 6,000 rpm)

Fuel Delivery:

Dual carburetors (Mikuni VM24SS or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 9.2 Liters (2.4 US gal)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Drive Type:

Shaft drive

Transmission Oil Type:

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

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.8 Liters (1.9 US qt)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,135 mm (84.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 790 mm (31.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,065 mm (41.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,485 mm (58.5 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 146 kg (322 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 157 kg (346 lbs)

Front Tire Size:

3.00-18 4PR

Rear Tire Size:

130/90-15 M/C 66P

Front Brake Type:

Disc

Rear Brake Type:

Drum

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Standard:

Basic motorcycle safety features, good visibility.

Active Safety:

Responsive braking system, predictable handling.

Passive Safety:

Sturdy frame construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic analogue instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, odometer, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators).

Driver Assistance Systems:

N/A

Connectivity Features:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles) or 6 months.

Oil Filter Replacement:

Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) or 12 months (concurrent with oil change).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months.

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles), replace if damaged or excessively dirty.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations (due to moisture absorption).

Clutch Adjustment:

As needed, check free play at least every 8,000 km (5,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, JASO MA, SAE 10W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt) without filter change; 1.6 Liters (1.7 US qt) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific year manual for exact spec)

Coolant Type:

Air-cooled (no coolant)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads/shoes, fork seals, carburetor diaphragms (age-related).

Carburetor Issues:

Can become gummed up with stale fuel, leading to starting problems or rough running; synchronization can drift over time.

Electrical Issues:

Aging wiring can lead to intermittent faults, regulator/rectifier failure can impact charging.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Yamaha 5JX-13440-00-00 (common replacement, verify for specific year)

Air Filter Part Number:

Yamaha 5JX-14451-00-00 (common replacement, verify for specific year)

Spark Plug Part Number:

NGK DPR7EA-9 (common, verify for specific year)

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Legacy:

Yamaha Motor Company is renowned for its innovation in motorcycles, musical instruments, and marine products. In motorcycles, they have a long history of performance and reliability.

Xv250 Lineage:

The XV250 Virago was part of Yamaha's Virago line of cruisers, known for their V-twin engines and classic styling. It served as an entry-level cruiser, offering accessible styling and a manageable engine for new riders.

Production Period:

1988-2008 (and continued in some markets with minor updates).

Manufacturing Origin:

Primarily Japan (though assembly may have occurred in other locations for specific markets).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

While specific awards for the XV250 are not widely documented, the Virago line was consistently praised for its styling and value, making it a popular choice in its segment.