Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, urban commuters, riders seeking a stylish and reliable lightweight cruiser
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow 110/ACE 750 (larger displacement, but similar cruiser appeal), Kawasaki Vulcan 500, Suzuki Savage 650
Design Philosophy:
Classic V-twin cruiser styling with compact dimensions for user-friendliness and maneuverability
Distinguishing Attributes:
Shaft drive, V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics, iconic Virago styling
Production Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Regional Variations Covered:
All major global markets (e.g., North America, Europe, Asia)
Estimated Page Count:
300-400
Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition systems
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch, drive chain maintenance, inspection, and repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, spokes, bearings
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (drum and disc, depending on model year), hydraulic lines, fluid replacement
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, lighting, switches, fuses
Fuel System:
Carburetor (VM Series) overhaul, adjustment, fuel tank, fuel lines, petcock
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection and replacement
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, control levers, mirrors, side covers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement
Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston, ring, valve, and crankshaft replacement
Adjustment:
Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, clutch and brake lever adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and electrical system overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin
Displacement:
248 cc (15.1 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 54.5 mm (2.13 in x 2.15 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Configuration:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Horsepower:
Approx. 20.4 hp (15.2 kW) @ 7,500 rpm (figures vary slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 19.2 Nm (14.1 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (figures vary slightly by year and market)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM Series (e.g., VM24) carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
9.2 L (2.4 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil
Oil Capacity:
1.8 L (1.9 US qt) with filter change
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads/shoes, drive chain and sprockets, fork seals, carburetor internal wear
Potential Problems:
Carburetor jets can clog if fuel sits for long periods, potential for starter clutch wear, regulator/rectifier failure (though less common than on some other Yamaha models).
Tool List Example:
Metric socket and wrench set, torque wrench, feeler gauges, carburetor cleaning kit, chain maintenance tools
Heritage Notes:
Yamaha Motor Company has a strong heritage in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various segments.
Evolution Summary:
The XV250 Virago was introduced as a lightweight, accessible cruiser. While the core design remained consistent throughout its production run (1988-2009), minor cosmetic updates and regulatory changes were implemented. It was particularly popular in markets where engine displacement regulations influenced motorcycle choice.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Run:
1988 - 2009