Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, those seeking a classic styling with manageable performance and accessible maintenance
Competitors:
Honda Shadow VT500/VT600, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage LS650 (later models)
Styling:
Classic V-twin cruiser aesthetic, low seat height, forward-mounted footpegs
Engine Configuration:
V-twin, air-cooled, SOHC
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh
Reliability:
Known for robust engineering and long-term durability
Manual Value:
Essential for DIY maintenance and repair, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Regions Covered:
Global (specifications may vary slightly by market)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed engine overhaul, components, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive, maintenance, repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shock), steering, wheels, tires
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brake systems, hydraulic components, servicing
Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting, instruments, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Carburetor(s), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable)
Cooling System:
Air cooling system specifics, engine heat management
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, side covers, trim, mounting procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems, diagnostic flowcharts, fault finding guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, electrical system fixes
Adjustment:
Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance, brake adjustments, clutch cable adjustment
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for taking apart and reassembling all major vehicle components
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic servicing to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and frame-off restorations.
Searchability:
Searchable text (typical for professionally created PDFs)
Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing
Binding:
Not applicable (PDF download)
Paper:
Not applicable (PDF download)
Engine Type:
4-stroke, V-twin, Air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve
Displacement:
234 cc (234cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Starting System:
Electric starter
Horsepower:
Approx. 16-18 hp @ 7,500 rpm (market dependent)
Torque:
Approx. 17-19 Nm @ 5,000 rpm (market dependent)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (e.g., VM24 or similar, subject to revision)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
9.0 Liters (approx. 2.4 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified by Yamaha)
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed (from tank to carburetors)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable to motorcycles in the same way as cars.
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc; Rear: Drum
Suspension:
Front: Telescopic fork; Rear: Swingarm (Monoshock or Twin Shock depending on exact sub-model/year)
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals
Mirrors:
Standard handlebar-mounted mirrors
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km or 6 months (whichever comes first), refer to manual for specifics.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km or 12 months.
Spark Plug Service:
Every 12,000 km or 12 months.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km or 12 months.
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.5 Liters (with oil filter replacement), 1.4 Liters (without oil filter replacement)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil (or SAE 10W/15W)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Carburetor Issues:
Pilot jet clogging leading to hard starting or poor idling, requiring cleaning and synchronization.
Fuel Petcock:
Diaphragm failure in vacuum-operated petcocks can cause fuel leaks or no fuel flow.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in harnesses and switches can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
While generally robust, older models might benefit from inspection or replacement if chain noise develops.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Yamaha 5JX-13440-00-00 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Part Number:
Yamaha 4X7-14421-00-00 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Spark Plug Part Number:
NGK CR9E (or recommended equivalent)
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation
Heritage:
Renowned Japanese manufacturer with a long history in motorcycles, audio, and marine products. A leader in innovation and performance.
Virago Lineage:
The XV250 is part of Yamaha's Virago line of V-twin cruisers, known for their accessible size and classic styling. It served as a smaller displacement option.
Production Run:
The XV250 enjoyed a remarkably long production run, indicating its sustained popularity and effective design for its intended market.
Market Changes:
While the core design remained largely consistent, minor updates in emissions, electronics, and styling may have occurred over the years.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan (and potentially other Yamaha global facilities)
Awards:
While specific industry awards for the XV250 are not widely documented, its longevity and continued sales success are a testament to its market acceptance and value proposition.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction due to its ease of use, reliability, and classic styling.
Certifications:
Compliant with relevant emissions standards for its production years and markets.