🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XV250

Nickname:

Virago 250 / V-Star 250

Model Code Range:

XV250

Generation Covered:

First Generation (1988-2008)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY motorcycle enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Yamaha XV250 owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair guidance.

Value Proposition:

Provides the essential technical information required to maintain and repair the Yamaha XV250, empowering owners to perform tasks typically requiring specialized dealerships, saving time and money.

Manual Feature 1:

Factory-level detail for all mechanical and electrical systems.

Manual Feature 2:

Clear, step-by-step instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations.

Manual Feature 3:

Comprehensive troubleshooting sections for rapid problem diagnosis.

Manual Feature 4:

Precise torque specifications, fluid capacities, and service intervals.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Years Covered:

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

Estimated Page Count:

300-400

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling system, ignition system, fuel system (carburetor specifics), emissions control.

Transmission:

Clutch, gearbox, final drive, lubrication, troubleshooting.

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front fork, rear shock absorbers, swingarm, steering head bearings, wheel alignment, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (drum/disc depending on year/market), hydraulic components, bleeding procedures, pad replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, battery, fuses, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Mikuni VM series) servicing, jetting, float adjustment, fuel lines, fuel pump.

Bodywork And Frame:

Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, exhaust system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain adjustment), pre-ride inspections, winter storage, battery care.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common issues, symptom-based problem solving for engine, electrical, and chassis problems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Adjustments:

Valve clearance adjustment, carburetor synchronization, idle speed adjustment, clutch cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment.

Diagnostics:

Explains how to diagnose common problems using visual inspection, listening, and basic testing methods.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (text-based PDF)

Printable:

Yes

Quality Description:

High-resolution digital scans of original factory manual content, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, Air-cooled, V-twin

Displacement:

248 cc (15.1 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 x 66.0 mm (1.93 x 2.60 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 18-21 HP @ 7,500 RPM (depending on market and specific year)

Torque:

Approx. 19.5-20.5 Nm @ 6,000 RPM (depending on market and specific year)

Carburetor:

Dual Mikuni VM20SS (or similar VM series)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

9.2 L (2.4 US gal)

Ignition:

CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

Oil Type:

Yamaha Motorcycle Oil 10W-40 (or API SG, SAE 10W-40)

Oil Capacity With Filter Change:

1.4 L (1.5 US qt)

Oil Filter Part Number:

4X7-13440-90-00 (or equivalent)

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multiple disc

Final Drive:

Chain Drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in manual for each gear.

Transmission Oil Type:

Yamaha Motorcycle Gear Oil 80W-90 (or API GL-4)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

0.50 L (0.53 US qt)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,185 mm (86.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 790 mm (31.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,055 mm (41.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,490 mm (58.7 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 144 kg (317.5 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 157 kg (346.1 lbs)

Maximum Load Capacity:

Typically around 180 kg (396 lbs) including rider and luggage.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Meets or exceeds all relevant national and international motorcycle safety standards for its production era.

Braking System:

Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake (some later models may have rear disc). Detailed inspection and maintenance procedures covered.

Tires:

Front: 3.00-18-4PR; Rear: 120/90-16-63P (typical sizes, refer to manual for precise specs).

Lighting System:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals. Bulb types and replacement procedures covered.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Not applicable (classic cruiser design with minimal electronic features).

Driver Assistance Features:

Not applicable. Focus is on mechanical reliability and rider control.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Oil Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) or 12 months.

Valve Clearance Check Interval:

Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 16,000 km (10,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.

Air Filter Cleaning Interval:

Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles) or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Drive Chain Lubrication Inspection:

Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in rain.

Coolant Type:

Not applicable (air-cooled engine).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads/shoes, fork seals, wheel bearings, and carburetor jets/needles due to age and usage.

Carburetor Issues:

Clogged jets, float bowl contamination, and idle stability issues are common if not properly maintained or cleaned regularly.

Electrical Issues:

Corroded connectors, faulty regulator/rectifier, and aging wiring harness can lead to charging or ignition problems.

Chassis Issues:

Steering head bearing wear and fork seal leaks are typical maintenance points.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Motorcycles:

Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, reliable, and performance-oriented motorcycles across various segments.

Xv250 Development:

The XV250 Virago was introduced in 1988 as a smaller displacement cruiser, offering a classic styling and accessible performance. It was later rebranded as the V-Star 250 in many markets, maintaining its core design and mechanicals for a long production run.

Production Period:

1988-2008 (as covered by this manual); continued production with minor updates beyond 2008 in some regions.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

While not typically receiving specific 'awards' in the modern sense, the XV250/V-Star 250 is recognized for its longevity, reliability, and status as a quintessential entry-level cruiser, making it a popular choice for new riders and those seeking a stylish, easy-to-manage motorcycle.