Motorcycle Segment:
Cruiser, Entry-level motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, commuting, light touring, customizers
Key Competitors Era:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Eliminator 250, Suzuki Savage 650 (though larger, often cross-shopped for cruiser style)
Design Philosophy:
Compact, lightweight V-twin cruiser styling with user-friendly operation
Distinctive Features:
Classic Virago styling, reliable V-twin engine, low seat height
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, disassembly, reassembly, component specifications
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding (Mikuni VM series), fuel delivery, fuel tank, fuel lines
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, spark plugs, timing, troubleshooting
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, final drive (chain and sprocket), gearbox components
Suspension:
Front fork (oil type, quantity, seal replacement), rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (drum and disc), brake fluid, pad/shoe replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), battery, starter motor, switches
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine thermal management, cylinder head cooling fins
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, wheel bearings
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, fuel tank
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (starting issues, poor running, electrical faults)
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and carburetor rebuilding
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor synchronization, clutch and throttle cable adjustment, valve clearance adjustment
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Information:
Includes detailed troubleshooting guides and fault diagnosis
Torque Specifications:
All critical torque values for fasteners and engine components
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for valve clearances, piston ring gaps, bearing clearances, etc.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, V-twin, 4-stroke, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.1:1
Valve Configuration:
2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Approx:
17-18 HP @ 7,500 rpm (varies slightly by market and year)
Torque Approx:
12.4 ft-lbs @ 6,000 rpm (varies slightly by market and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Two Mikuni VM22 carburetors (one per cylinder)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 10.1 L (2.7 US gal)
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or equivalent
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are typically not standardized like automobiles)
Braking System Front:
272 mm (10.7 in) single disc brake
Braking System Rear:
150 mm (5.9 in) drum brake
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (in some later models), incandescent turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame
Tyre Recommendations Front:
3.00-18 or 100/90-18 (refer to manual for specific OEM fitments)
Tyre Recommendations Rear:
130/90-15 or 140/90-15 (refer to manual for specific OEM fitments)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months
Oil Filter Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or 12 months (or with every oil change)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,200 miles)
Air Filter Cleaning Or Replacement:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles), or more frequently in dusty conditions
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 L (1.8 US qt) without filter change, 1.9 L (2.0 US qt) with filter change
Front Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent
Front Fork Oil Quantity Per Leg:
Approx. 347 ml (11.7 US fl oz)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Carburetor Issues:
Can be prone to gumming up if not used regularly; synchronization may drift over time.
Starter Clutch Wear:
Some models may experience wear on the starter clutch over high mileage, leading to slipping.
Rear Drum Brake Adjustment:
May require frequent adjustment due to wear or cable stretch.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on connectors, especially in humid environments, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Company
Brand Focus:
Motorcycles, musical instruments, marine products, etc.
Introduction Year:
1988 (for the Virago 250)
Key Changes Over Years:
Minor cosmetic updates, emissions control modifications, potential for minor internal engine adjustments. Rebranded as V-Star 250 in some markets around 2008.
Production Location:
Japan (primarily)
Production Span Covered:
1989-2005 (as per manual coverage)