Segment:
Cruiser/Entry-level Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, commuters, customizers, and owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Key Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Suzuki GZ250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though larger displacement, often cross-shopped for style).
Design Philosophy:
Classic cruiser styling with a user-friendly, approachable engine and chassis.
Reliability:
Known for Yamaha's robust engineering and reliability, making it a dependable choice.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to confidently maintain and repair their Virago 250, saving on labor costs and extending the motorcycle's lifespan.
Model Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided in product info, but indicative of a comprehensive manual)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including disassembly, assembly, inspection, adjustment, and troubleshooting of engine components (cylinder head, cylinder, piston, crankshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series typically), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter maintenance and overhaul procedures.
Transmission:
Clutch system (operation, adjustment, replacement), gearbox (disassembly, inspection, assembly, lubrication), shift mechanism.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI, spark plugs), starting system (starter motor, battery), lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), wiring diagrams, component testing.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (drum and/or disc depending on specific year/market), brake fluid replacement, bleeding, pad/shoe inspection and replacement, caliper/master cylinder service.
Suspension:
Front fork (disassembly, oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorbers (inspection, replacement), swingarm and linkage maintenance.
Frame And Body:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, handlebars, and related components.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifics, heat dissipation analysis, potential issues related to overheating.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, replacement, and gasket procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, lubrication points, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault finding procedures for all major systems.
Rebuilds And Overhauls:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, carburetor, and suspension overhauls.
Inspections And Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing checks, carburetor synchronization, brake and clutch lever free play adjustment.
Part Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing wear items and major components.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing with multimeter readings.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (248.9 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Configuration:
2 valves per cylinder, SOHC
Horsepower Approx:
Approx. 18-20 HP @ 7500 RPM (varies slightly by market and year)
Torque Approx:
Approx. 14-15 lb-ft @ 6000 RPM (varies slightly by market and year)
Carburetor Type:
Mikuni VM22SS (typically, single CV carburetor)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor with mechanical fuel pump (vacuum operated)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.6 L (1.7 US qt) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
Yamalube 4 (10W-40) or equivalent API SG, SAE 10W-40, JASO MA certified.
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or Denso U27ETR (verify with manual for specific year/model)
Safety Certification:
Not typically rated by standardized automotive safety bodies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for motorcycles, but built to relevant industry safety standards of its time.
Braking System Front:
Usually a disc brake. Specific diameter and pad material details in manual.
Braking System Rear:
Typically a drum brake. Specific drum diameter and shoe material details in manual.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, double cradle frame for stability and rider support.
Tire Specifications Front:
e.g., 90/90-18 (specific tire type, load, and speed ratings in manual)
Tire Specifications Rear:
e.g., 120/90-16 (specific tire type, load, and speed ratings in manual)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact mileage and time).
Chain Lubrication Cleaning:
Every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles) and after riding in wet conditions.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or as specified in the manual. Crucial for performance and longevity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 5,000 km (3,000 miles), replace as needed or at recommended intervals (e.g., 10,000-15,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG, SAE 10W-40, JASO MA certified (e.g., Yamalube 4T 10W-40).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual for specific type). Should be replaced every 2 years.
Fork Oil:
SAE 10W fork oil (capacity and level details in manual).
Carburetor Issues:
Can be prone to gumming up if fuel sits, requiring cleaning and synchronization. Diaphragm can wear over time.
Starter Clutch:
Some owners report wear or failure of the starter clutch mechanism over high mileage.
Charging System:
Rectifier/regulator can be a point of failure on older models, leading to charging issues. Stator output should be checked periodically.
Fuel Pump:
Vacuum diaphragm in the fuel pump can degrade, causing fuel starvation. Regular inspection and replacement as needed.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, a renowned Japanese manufacturer with a long history in motorcycles, audio equipment, and other motorized products.
Lineage:
The Virago line was Yamaha's entry into the cruiser market, with the 250cc model serving as an accessible and stylish option. It continued the trend of V-twin cruisers. The model was rebadged as the V Star 250 in North America for later years to align with Yamaha's cruiser naming conventions.
Production Period:
Original production spanned from the late 1980s through 2007 globally, with the North American market continuing with the V Star 250 designation well past 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
