Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range cruiser motorcycle, popular for its comfort and reliability
Target Audience:
New riders, urban commuters, weekend cruisers, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow VT750/VT600, Suzuki Boulevard S40/Intruder 250, Kawasaki Vulcan S/Eliminator 250
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliable V-twin engine, comfortable riding position, classic styling, low seat height, fuel efficiency
Manual Advantage:
Official and comprehensive coverage, detailed procedures, essential for proper maintenance and repair
Primary Coverage:
All aspects of repair and service procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, assembly, disassembly
Estimated Page Count:
300-400
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially print
Engine:
Engine overhaul, top end, bottom end, timing, cooling system
Fuel System:
Carburetor(s) adjustment and overhaul, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines
Transmission:
Clutch operation and replacement, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift mechanism
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, wiring diagrams
Suspension:
Front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber replacement, linkage maintenance
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper overhaul, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm and pivot bearings
Bodywork:
Panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, fuel tank mounting
Regular Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptom-based repair guidance
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans or digitally created content, searchable text where available
Print Option:
Printable pages, professional layout
Binding:
N/A (for digital) / Spiral or perfect bound (if printed)
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital) / Durable, high-quality paper stock (if printed)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
248 cc (15.1 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (1.93 in x 2.60 in)
Compression Ratio:
22.0 : 1
Valve Clearance Intake:
0.04 - 0.08 mm (0.0016 - 0.0031 in)
Valve Clearance Exhaust:
0.04 - 0.08 mm (0.0016 - 0.0031 in)
Horsepower:
Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7500 RPM (varies by market and specific model year)
Torque:
Approx. 19-21 Nm @ 6000 RPM (varies by market and specific model year)
Carburetor Type:
Single Mikuni VM26 or similar (specific model may vary, e.g., 34mm CV carb)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (2.5 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum Octane Rating 87 (RON+MON)/2
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40, API SE or SF classification or higher
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Gap:
0.6 - 0.7 mm (0.024 - 0.028 in)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Drive Method:
Chain drive
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Refer to specific model year manual for detailed ratios (e.g., 1st: 2.750, 2nd: 1.875, 3rd: 1.375, 4th: 1.100, 5th: 0.917)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
N/A (integrated with engine oil)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40
First Service:
1,000 km (600 miles) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or 12 months
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Refer to manual, typically around 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, carburetor jetting issues (gumming), fork seal leaks, charging system (stator/rectifier) failures
Troubleshooting Focus:
Carburetor cleaning and synchronization, electrical connector checks, timing adjustments
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer with a long history of producing high-quality motorcycles, known for innovation and performance across various categories.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market, emphasizing classic styling with modern engineering. The XV250, introduced in the mid-1980s, became a long-running model due to its accessibility and reliability.
Production Years:
Originally introduced in 1987 and produced for many years, with minor updates over time. Specific model years covered by this manual are crucial for exact specification accuracy.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan, with potential manufacturing in other Yamaha facilities.
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the XV250 Virago might be scarce, it has consistently received praise for its reliability and value within the entry-level cruiser segment throughout its production run.
User Reviews:
Generally positive for its intended use, often cited as a great first motorcycle.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured under Yamaha's stringent quality control standards.
