Vehicle Market Segment:
Cruiser, Entry-level motorcycle
Target Audience For Manual:
DIY mechanics, motorcycle enthusiasts, independent repair shops
Key Competitors Of Vehicle:
Honda Rebel 250, Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (though slightly larger), Suzuki Savage 650 (larger displacement)
Vehicle Key Selling Points:
Torquey V-twin engine, classic cruiser styling, shaft drive for low maintenance, comfortable riding position, beginner-friendly
Manual Key Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the Yamaha Virago 250, enabling cost-effective ownership and personalized customization.
Model Years Covered:
1988-1990, 1995-2005
Variants Covered:
Virago 250, Virago 250 Route 66
Estimated Page Count:
300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Likely printed, potentially available as PDF scan
Engine Systems:
Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, carburetor, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), exhaust system
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission, final drive (shaft drive)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering, wheels, brakes (front and rear), fuel tank, seat, fenders, bodywork, cowling removal
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition coil, starter motor, charging system (generator/alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, instrumentation, fuses
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though likely shaft drive), brake adjustments, lubrication points, air filter cleaning/replacement, coolant checks (if liquid cooled, but Virago 250 is air-cooled)
Repair Procedures:
Carburetor overhaul, engine top-end rebuild, transmission service, brake caliper overhaul, suspension fork service, electrical component testing and replacement, cable routing and adjustment
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnosis of common engine, electrical, and mechanical faults
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls, including detailed diagrams and specifications
Diagnostic Information:
Includes specific diagnostic procedures and likely resistance values/voltage checks for electrical components
Special Tools Indicated:
Manual identifies required special tools for specific procedures
Engine Type:
4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical for XV250)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Approximate:
18-20 hp @ 7,500 rpm (approximate, depending on year and market)
Torque Approximate:
19-21 Nm @ 5,500 rpm (approximate, depending on year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Carburetor Type:
Dual Mikuni VM22SS (typical)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Type Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SE, SF or SG (verify with manual for precise spec)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.4 liters without filter change, 1.6 liters with filter change (verify with manual)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2255 mm (verify with manual)
Overall Width:
Approx. 825 mm (verify with manual)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1085 mm (verify with manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1485 mm (verify with manual)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 147 kg (verify with manual)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 159 kg (verify with manual)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 liters (verify with manual)
Safety Ratings Context:
Motorcycles typically do not have standardized crash test ratings like cars, but manual covers safety-related maintenance and operation.
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake, Rear: Drum brake
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamp, tail light, turn signals, brake light
Chassis Design:
Steel double-cradle frame for stability
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.
Driver Assistance Features:
Not applicable for this era and class of motorcycle.
Connectivity Features:
Not applicable for this era and class of motorcycle.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km or 6 months (typical, verify with manual)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (typical, verify with manual)
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 3,000 km (typical, verify with manual)
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Every 10,000-12,000 km (typical, verify with manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (verify with manual)
Fork Oil Type:
Yamalube Fork Oil (or equivalent) SAE 10W (verify with manual)
Common Virago 250 Issues:
Carburetor gumming/clogging due to infrequent use, potential stator or regulator/rectifier failure, aging electrical connections, sometimes starting issues if battery is weak.
Recommended Preventative Checks:
Regular fuel stabilizer use if stored, thorough cleaning of the air filter, checking brake fluid levels and condition, ensuring battery is well-maintained.
Yamaha Motorcycle Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles across various segments.
Virago Series Context:
The Virago series was Yamaha's line of V-twin cruisers, known for their classic styling and approachable performance, with the 250cc model serving as an entry point.
Route 66 Variant Significance:
The 'Route 66' designation typically signifies cosmetic upgrades and a specific styling package aimed at evoking the classic American cruiser aesthetic.
Original Production Years:
The XV250 Virago was produced for a significant period, with the years 1988-2007 (depending on market) being common.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
Vehicle Awards Or Recognition:
While specific awards for the Virago 250 are uncommon, it has consistently been praised as a reliable, affordable, and user-friendly entry-level cruiser.
Manual Quality Rating:
High - Essential resource for owners and technicians.
