🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XV 250 Virago

Model Years Covered:

1988-2005

Common Model Designations:

XV250W, XV250A, XV250G, XV250H, XV250J, XV250K, XV250L, XV250P, XV250R, XV250S, XV250T, Route 66

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Entry-level to mid-size cruiser motorcycle

Target Audience:

Beginner riders, commuting, light touring, custom builds

Competitors:

Honda Shadow 400/750 (though smaller displacement), Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Intruder 750 (larger displacement but similar cruiser aesthetic)

Design Philosophy:

Classic cruiser styling with a V-twin engine, accessible performance and comfort.

Ride Quality:

Comfortable riding position, manageable power delivery, known for reliability.

Route 66 Variant:

Specific styling package offering a distinct aesthetic.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Manual Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

File Compression:

May be zipped (.zip, .rar)

File Size Potential:

Up to 5 GB (mention on product page)

Delivery Method:

Instant Digital Download

Download Window:

3 days after payment

Compatibility:

Windows, Linux, Mac (all OS supporting PDF reader)

Printing Allowed:

Yes

Saving Burning:

Yes

Searchable Text:

Likely, dependent on original scan quality

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full overhaul, maintenance, troubleshooting

Fuel System:

Carburetor(s), fuel pump, fuel lines, mixture screw adjustment

Ignition System:

CDI, spark plugs, stator, ignition timing

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch, gearbox, drive shaft, final drive

Chassis Frame:

Frame inspection, swingarm, forks, steering head bearings

Suspension:

Front forks, rear shock absorber(s)

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, fluid replacement, caliper service

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (rectifier/regulator), lighting, starter

Bodywork Panels:

Fenders, tank, seat, plastic components

Maintenance:

Periodic inspections, adjustments, fluid changes, lubrication schedule

Repair:

Component-level repair, assembly, disassembly

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common and uncommon problems, 'no spark' issues, starting problems

Rebuilds:

Engine rebuilds, carburetor rebuilds, major component overhauls

Technical Data Specs:

Torque specifications, valve clearance, fluid capacities, viscosities

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine teardowns and electrical diagnostics

Illustrations:

Clear, step-by-step illustrated instructions, zoomable illustrations

Diagrams:

Wiring diagrams, exploded views, component breakdowns

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Configuration:

V-twin, 4-stroke

Displacement:

234 cc (234cc)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical, verify with manual)

Cooling System:

Liquid-cooled

Valves Per Cylinder:

2 (SOHC)

Compression Ratio:

22.5:1 (typical for early models, check manual for variations)

Horsepower:

Approximately 18-21 hp @ 7,500 rpm (varies by year/market)

Torque:

Approximately 19-21 Nm (14-15 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (varies by year/market)

Carburetion:

Dual Mikuni carburetors (e.g., VM20 or similar)

Fuel Delivery:

Gravity feed with vacuum-operated fuel petcock

Oil Type:

Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 depending on climate)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.4 L (1.5 US qt) with filter change

Ignition Type:

Transistor Controlled Ignition (TCI)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK DR8EA or equivalent

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multiple disc

Final Drive:

Shaft drive

Type:

Yamaha Motorcycle Gear Oil (or equivalent SAE 80 hypoid gear oil)

Capacity:

Approx. 130 ml (4.4 US fl oz)

📐 Dimensions

Dry Weight:

Approx. 133 kg (293 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 146 kg (322 lbs)

Payload Capacity:

Not explicitly specified, but typically 150-200 kg for this class.

Front Tire Size:

3.00-18 47P

Rear Tire Size:

130/90-15 M/C 66P

Front Wheel Type:

Spoked

Rear Wheel Type:

Spoked

Front Brake:

Single 282 mm disc with dual-piston caliper

Rear Brake:

130 mm drum brake

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 L (2.5 US gal)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features:

Standard motorcycle safety features; no specific electronic driver aids expected on these models.

Braking System:

Disc front, drum rear

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, turn signals

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic motorcycle instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights). No advanced infotainment systems.

Features:

None.

Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)

Coolant Type:

Permanent antifreeze (ethylene glycol based) with distilled water (50/50 mix)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems:

Carburetor tuning issues, potential electrical connector corrosion, drive shaft seal leaks, clutch wear

Preventative Maintenance Focus:

Regular cleaning and synchronization of carburetors, checking electrical connections, timely fluid changes.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Yamaha Motor Company, Japan

Introduction Year:

The Virago line was introduced in the early 1980s; the XV250 was a key model within this cruiser range.

Design Inspiration:

American V-twin cruiser styling, adapted for a smaller, more accessible displacement.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan, with potential for assembly in other regions for specific markets.

Lifespan:

Production spanned nearly two decades, indicating consistent popularity and reliability.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Notable Awards:

While specific awards are not detailed for this model, the Virago line consistently received positive reviews for its styling, reliability, and accessibility within the cruiser market during its production years.