🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

Virago 250 / Route 66

Model Variant:

XV250U (Virago 250), XV250GC (Route 66)

Chassis Code:

XV250

👋 Introduction

Motorcycle Segment:

Entry-level cruiser motorcycle

Target Audience:

Beginner riders, commuters, those seeking a stylish and manageable cruiser

Key Competitors:

Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though larger), Suzuki Savage/Boulevard S40

Distinctive Styling:

Classic V-twin cruiser styling with a comfortable riding position

User Friendliness:

Easy to handle, manageable power, and relatively low seat height

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1990, 1995, 2005

Variants Covered:

Virago 250, Route 66

Estimated Page Count:

300-400 (typical for this era and scope)

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System:

Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and adjustment

Fuel System:

Carburetor identification, adjustment, overhaul, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump

Ignition System:

CDI system, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing adjustment

Transmission System:

Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, gearbox disassembly and assembly

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, battery), instrumentation

Brake System:

Front and rear brake mechanisms (drum/disc depending on spec), brake fluid, bleeding procedures

Suspension System:

Front fork (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, swingarm pivot

Steering System:

Handlebar removal/installation, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement

Cooling System:

Air cooling system (fins inspection, cleaning)

Exhaust System:

Muffler and pipe inspection and replacement

Chassis And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat, fuel tank mounting

Maintenance Procedures:

Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, spark plug checks, tire pressure

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Overhaul Procedures:

Comprehensive engine and carburetor overhaul instructions

Torque Specifications:

Crucial torque values for all fasteners and critical components

Special Tool Requirements:

Identification of specialized tools needed for specific procedures

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics for engine performance, electrical faults, and mechanical issues

Rebuild Instructions:

Complete engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, and carburetor rebuild instructions

Wiring Diagrams Detail:

Highly detailed, often color-coded wiring diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Quality:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams

Print Clarity:

Sharp text and clear, legible diagrams

Binding:

Perfect bound or stapled (depending on original printing)

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC

Displacement:

249 cc (249cc)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 18-20 HP (at rear wheel)

Torque:

Approx. 14-16 lb-ft (at rear wheel)

Carburetion:

Single Mikuni VM26SS (or similar variant)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 2.6 US gallons (9.8 Liters)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 87

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate

Transmission Oil Spec:

Yamaha Lube 10W-40 API SG or SAE 20W-40 Type SE or SF motorcycle oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2195 mm (86.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 790 mm (31.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1100 mm (43.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1475 mm (58.1 in)

Seat Height:

Approx. 720 mm (28.3 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 335 kg (738.5 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Motorcycle safety standards are generally based on rider skill and protective gear; specific crash test data for this era and class is limited.

Braking System:

Front: Disc brake; Rear: Drum brake (standard configuration)

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light

Frame Construction:

Steel cradle frame providing rigidity and rider support

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (on some models/years), odometer, tripmeter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.

ABS:

Not equipped with ABS

Electronic Features:

Basic electrical system, CDI ignition, no advanced electronic rider aids.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 6,000 - 8,000 miles or annually

Air Filter Cleaning Inspection:

Every 3,000 miles; replace as needed

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Every 500 miles

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 24,000 miles

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.4 Liters (with oil filter change)

Fork Oil Type Capacity:

Yamaha Fork Oil 10W or equivalent, approx. 220 ml per fork leg

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Carburetor Performance:

Older carburetors can sometimes experience gumming or jet clogging, requiring cleaning and adjustment. Lean running conditions can occur if not properly tuned.

Charging System:

Stator or regulator/rectifier failure can lead to battery not charging.

Valve Lash Adjustment:

Requires periodic adjustment to maintain optimal engine performance and longevity. Often neglected, leading to ticking noises or poor running.

Fuel Petcock:

Diaphragm in the vacuum-operated petcock can degrade over time, leading to fuel delivery issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Motorcycles:

Yamaha Motor Corporation, founded in 1955, has a long history of producing high-quality motorcycles across various segments, known for innovation and performance.

Virago Lineup:

The Virago line was Yamaha's primary cruiser offering in the 1980s and 1990s, characterized by V-twin engines and traditional styling. The 250cc variant was a popular smaller-displacement option.

Route 66 Variant:

The Route 66 was a special edition of the Virago 250, often featuring unique paint schemes and badging to evoke the spirit of American road culture.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan

Production Period:

The XV250 Virago was produced for an extended period, with the core design remaining consistent through the late 1980s and into the 2000s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Awards:

While specific awards for the Virago 250 are not widely documented, it was consistently recognized by motorcycle publications as a good value, reliable entry-level cruiser.