Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, those seeking a stylish and manageable cruiser
Key Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Suzuki GZ250 Marauder, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though a larger displacement)
Styling:
Classic V-twin cruiser aesthetics with relaxed riding posture
Engine Layout:
V-twin configuration, offering characteristic rumble and torque delivery
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive for low maintenance compared to chain drive
Maneuverability:
Lightweight and compact design for ease of handling
Cost Savings:
Significant savings on dealership labor costs for maintenance and repairs
Empowerment:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and understand their machine better
Models Covered:
Yamaha Virago 250, Yamaha VStar 250
Regions Covered:
Global (specifications may vary slightly by market)
Estimated Pages:
300-500+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Service Repair Shop Manual
Purpose:
Maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul
Delivery Method:
Downloadable File
Compatibility:
PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling system
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, adjustment, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel tank, fuel lines
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plugs, ignition timing, stator, rotor
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch operation, shifting mechanisms, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joint, final drive gear oil
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, spring preload adjustment
Brakes:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake, hydraulic system, brake fluid, pad/shoe replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), starter motor, lighting, fuses
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearings, tire pressure, wheel balancing, spoke tension (if applicable)
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, side covers, handlebars, controls
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, lubrication points, filter replacement, fluid changes, valve clearance adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, electrical system fault finding
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, idle speed, throttle cable, clutch cable, brake lever
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive workshop level, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Detail Level:
Detailed diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step instructions with specifications
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (1.93 in x 2.60 in)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical)
Valves Per Cylinder:
2 (SOHC)
Cooling System:
Air Cooling
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7500 RPM (varies slightly by year/market)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 19-20 Nm (14-15 lb-ft) @ 6000 RPM (varies slightly by year/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor(s) - Typically a single Mikuni CV carburetor (e.g., VM30)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 87
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 10 Liters (2.6 Gallons)
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent motorcycle specific 4-stroke engine oil, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.4 Liters (1.5 US qt) without filter change, Approx. 1.6 Liters (1.7 US qt) with filter change
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Gap:
0.6 - 0.7 mm (0.024 - 0.028 in)
Recommended Spark Plug:
NGK CR9E or similar
Transmission Type:
Constant mesh, 5-speed sequential
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple-disc
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: 2.833, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.409, 4th: 1.115, 5th: 0.965)
Final Drive Ratio:
Specific ratio documented in manual (e.g., ~3.19)
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil or equivalent SAE 80W API GL-4
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.6 Liters (0.63 US qt)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2195 mm (86.4 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 745 mm (29.3 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1125 mm (44.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1485 mm (58.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 145 mm (5.7 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 705 mm (27.8 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 157 kg (346 lbs) (with fluids)
Max Load:
Refer to manual for specific load capacity
Front Tire Size:
3.00-18 4PR
Rear Tire Size:
120/90-16 M/C 64P
Wheel Type:
Spoked wheels with tube-type tires
Safety Certification:
Meets relevant DOT and EPA standards for its model years
Braking Performance:
Adequate stopping power for its class, but lacks ABS
Handling:
Predictable handling due to manageable weight and chassis geometry
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, and turn signals
Frame Structure:
Steel double-cradle frame for rigidity
Known Issues Related To Safety
Tire Wear:
Importance of regular tire inspection and replacement, particularly on older models
Infotainment System:
None (basic motorcycle instrumentation)
Driver Assistance Features:
None
Connectivity Options:
None
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (some models), odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, oil pressure warning light, high beam indicator
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (2,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect every 3,000 km (2,000 miles), clean/replace as needed
Spark Plug Check Replacement:
Inspect every 6,000 km (4,000 miles), replace as needed
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Lubricate universal joint and inspect splines every 6,000 km (4,000 miles); change final drive gear oil annually or every 6,000 km (4,000 miles)
Engine Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent motorcycle specific 4-stroke engine oil), SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116
Final Drive Gear Oil:
SAE 80W API GL-4
Carburetor Icing:
Possible in cold, humid conditions due to location and airflow
Shaft Drive Issues:
Lubrication and seal integrity are critical to prevent premature wear
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on connectors can lead to intermittent issues, especially on older models
Carburetor Cleaning Rebuild:
A common task to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency
Brake Pad Replacement:
Standard wear item, easily replaceable
Fork Seal Replacement:
Common wear item on older front suspension systems
Yamaha Motorcycle Legacy:
Yamaha has a long and successful history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago series introduced Yamaha's V-twin cruiser styling to smaller displacement markets.
Vstar Transition:
The VStar branding was adopted for many Yamaha cruisers, including the 250cc model, to align with their American-style cruiser image.
Long Production Run:
The extended production run from 1989 to 2009 indicates the model's enduring popularity and robust design.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan
