Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle, popular for its approachable styling, ease of use, and reliability.
Competitors:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Eliminator 250, Suzuki Savage/Boulevard S40.
Design Philosophy:
Classic V-twin cruiser styling with a compact and user-friendly package, suitable for new riders and urban commuting.
Covered Model Years:
1988, 1990, 1995, 2004, 2005
Covered Variants:
Virago 250, Route 66
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Completeness:
Full factory service manual equivalent, providing all necessary information for maintenance and repair.
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
File Format Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear diagrams and text.
Printable:
Yes, printable pages for convenient workshop use.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, top-end and bottom-end components, valve timing, ignition system, cooling system (air-cooled specifics).
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, disassembly, cleaning, adjustment (idle speed, mixture), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, transmission disassembly and reassembly, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system (CDI, spark plugs), lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), starter motor, wiring diagrams.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum specifics), brake fluid replacement, bleeding, pad/shoe replacement, master cylinder, caliper/wheel cylinder service.
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, linkage maintenance.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm and pivot bearing maintenance.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, handlebars, controls.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, lubrication points, brake checks, tire pressure.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and their solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting for starting issues, running problems, electrical faults.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustments, clutch lever adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever free play.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic owner maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Valve Arrangement:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 16.5 HP @ 7,500 RPM (varies slightly by year/region)
Torque:
Approx. 1.8 kg-m (13 lb-ft) @ 5,500 RPM (varies slightly by year/region)
Carburetion:
Mikuni VM26SS (or similar single 26mm carburetor) with accelerator pump.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
9.0 L (2.4 US gal)
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, SAE 20W-40 motorcycle oil recommended by Yamaha).
Oil Capacity:
1.4 L (1.5 US qt) without filter change / 1.6 L (1.7 US qt) with filter change.
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Gap:
0.7 - 0.8 mm (0.028 - 0.031 in)
Recommended Spark Plug:
NGK CR8E / CR8EB or DENSO U24ESR-N / U24ESRN
Overall Length:
2195 mm (86.4 in) for 2004 model
Overall Width:
770 mm (30.3 in) for 2004 model
Overall Height:
1115 mm (43.9 in) for 2004 model
Seat Height:
720 mm (28.3 in)
Wheelbase:
1490 mm (58.7 in)
Caster Angle:
32.5 degrees
Dry Weight:
139 kg (306 lbs) for 2004 model
Wet Weight:
149 kg (328 lbs) (approx. with full fluids)
Ground Clearance:
145 mm (5.7 in)
Curb Weight:
147 kg (324 lbs) (for some earlier models)
Safety Features General:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not have crash ratings like cars; focus on rider safety through design and maintenance).
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake (or disc on some later variants).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame for rigidity and rider feedback.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or 12 months, recommended with oil change.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles). Replace as needed (e.g., every 12,000 km or 1 year).
Spark Plug Inspection And Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles).
Valve Clearance Inspection:
Every 12,000 km (7,200 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (14,400 miles) or 2 years.
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles).
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W (or equivalent)
Fork Oil Capacity Per Leg:
Approx. 165 ml (5.6 US fl oz) (for 2004 model, check specific year)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates (due to frequent use in stop-and-go traffic), carburetor diaphragm (cracking/wear), intake manifold boots (cracking), rear brake shoes (wear depending on usage).
Potential Electrical Issues:
Regulator/rectifier failure (can lead to charging issues), occasional stator coil issues.
Carburetor Tuning:
Can be sensitive to altitude and temperature; requires periodic adjustments for optimal performance.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality motorcycles across various segments, known for their innovation and performance.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago line, introduced in the early 1980s, established Yamaha's presence in the cruiser market with its V-twin engines and distinctive styling. The Virago 250 (XV250) has been a consistent model, appreciated for its user-friendliness and classic aesthetics.
Route 66 Variant:
The 'Route 66' designation often referred to a specific styling package or trim level for the Virago 250, emphasizing classic American motorcycle imagery, particularly for the earlier model years (1988, 1990).
Production Period:
The Virago 250 has been in continuous production for many years, with significant updates and variations across different markets and model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and Taiwan.
