🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

XV250 Virago

Product Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Product Format:

PDF Download

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The XV250 Virago was Yamaha's entry-level cruiser, popular for its classic styling, manageable size, and reliability. Aimed at newer riders or those seeking a comfortable, stylish, and economical machine.

Competitors:

Competed with other Japanese manufacturers' small-displacement cruisers, such as Honda Shadow 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though larger displacement, often in a similar market segment), and Suzuki Savage 650 (again, larger but competing for cruiser buyers).

Styling:

Classic V-twin cruiser styling, teardrop fuel tank, stepped seat, chrome accents.

Engine Type:

Air-cooled V-twin engine, known for its smooth power delivery and character.

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive, offering low maintenance compared to chain drives.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009

Primary Market:

North America (likely, given typical product naming)

Estimated Pages:

300-400 (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, top-end, bottom-end, cooling system, lubrication system

Fuel System:

Carburetor tuning and overhaul, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank

Transmission:

Clutch operation and adjustment, gear shifting mechanism, transmission overhaul

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive system, final drive assembly

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (likely drum front and rear for this model/era), hydraulic components, caliper/wheel cylinder service

Suspension:

Front fork (telescopic), rear suspension (monoshock or twin shock, depending on specific sub-model), shock absorber service, linkage maintenance

Electrical System:

Ignition system (CDI), lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, wiring diagrams, component testing

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal/installation, seat, tank, fenders, fairings (if applicable)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable), brake fluid flush, coolant checks

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, electrical diagnostics, and chassis work

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values (resistance, voltage, amperage)

Engine Component Replacement:

Piston, rings, valves, camshaft, crankshaft, bearings.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Tire removal and installation, wheel balancing, spoke adjustment (if applicable).

Chassis Lubrication:

Steering head bearings, swingarm bearings, pivot points.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for the entire electrical system, crucial for troubleshooting electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text, searchable content (typical for well-produced PDF manuals)

Print Quality:

Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

4-stroke, Air-cooled, V-twin, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Displacement:

249 cc (249 cubic centimeters)

Bore X Stroke:

49.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (typical, check manual for specific year variation)

Horsepower:

Approx. 20-22 HP @ 7,500 RPM (typical, depends on specific year and tuning)

Torque:

Approx. 18-20 Nm @ 6,000 RPM (typical)

Carburetion:

Dual Mikuni VM22 carburetors (or similar size, check manual)

Fuel Delivery:

Vacuum-operated fuel pump

Ignition System:

CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

System:

Wet sump

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Clutch:

Wet multi-plate

Drive Type:

Shaft drive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,245 mm (90.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,145 mm (45.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,490 mm (58.7 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 147 kg (324 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 158 kg (348 lbs) (with all fluids)

Tank Capacity:

9.0 L (2.4 gal) (typical, check manual)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features:

Not applicable for motorcycles in the same way as cars. Emphasis on rider skill and defensive riding.

Braking:

Front disc brake, Rear drum brake (typical for this generation). ABS was not a standard or common option for this model.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight (depending on year update), turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, tachometer (often optional or integrated), fuel gauge (often a reserve light), neutral indicator, high-beam indicator.

Features:

None (motorcycle of this era).

Features:

None (motorcycle of this era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical, consult manual for precise interval).

Spark Plug Service:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 5,000-8,000 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or as needed in dusty conditions.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles), as tappets are likely mechanical adjusters.

Engine Oil:

Yamaha recommends Yamalube 4-stroke motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (viscosity depends on climate). API SG or higher is generally specified. Consult manual for exact specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.8 L (1.9 US qt) with filter change (typical, confirm with manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type).

Coolant:

Not applicable (air-cooled engine).

Common Problems:

Carburetor synchronization issues, vacuum leaks, stator/regulator/rectifier failure (common in older electrical systems), rear brake shoe wear, occasional clutch slip if not maintained.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular cleaning of carburetors, checking for vacuum leaks, ensuring proper electrical connections, and timely brake maintenance are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Yamaha has a long and successful history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various segments, including cruisers.

Evolution:

The XV250 Virago was part of Yamaha's Virago line, introduced in the early 1980s. The 250cc version offered a smaller, more accessible entry point into the cruiser market, evolving with minor cosmetic and mechanical updates over its production run from the late 1980s through 2009.

Production Period:

Introduced around 1988 and produced through 2009. This manual covers a significant portion of its production lifespan.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (primarily, though some models may have been assembled in other locations).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the XV250 Virago are not widely publicized, it was consistently recognized as a reliable and enjoyable entry-level cruiser by motorcycle publications and riders alike.