Vehicle Segment:
Entry-level cruiser motorcycle, popular for its user-friendliness and classic styling.
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, commuters, those seeking a lightweight and easy-to-handle motorcycle.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow VLX 600 (though larger displacement), Suzuki Boulevard S40, various models from Royal Enfield and Indian (smaller displacement variants).
Vehicle Appeal:
Low seat height, manageable power, reliable V-twin engine, classic cruiser aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners to perform complex tasks and reduce service costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, inspection, and adjustment of engine components (cylinder, piston, crankshaft, valve train).
Fuel System:
Carburetor removal, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plugs, ignition timing, wiring diagrams.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, final drive (chain).
Suspension System:
Front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake pad replacement, caliper inspection, brake fluid service, master cylinder.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator/stator), lighting, starter motor, wiring harnesses, fuses.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, handlebars.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, exhaust pipes, gaskets.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure, wheel bearing inspection, spoke tension adjustment.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults).
Engine Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the engine for complete overhauls.
Carburetor Tuning:
Detailed procedures for cleaning, rebuilding, and adjusting the carburetor for optimal performance.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Schematic diagrams, component testing procedures, and fault finding for electrical systems.
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil changes, rear shock absorber removal and installation.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake fluid flush and bleed, brake pad replacement, caliper piston cleaning.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (OEM Factory Level)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, component testing, and troubleshooting guides.
Rebuild Instructions:
Full disassembly and reassembly instructions for major components and the entire motorcycle.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve V-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
49.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Lubrication System:
Wet sump
Horsepower:
Approx. 16-18 hp @ 7,500 rpm (varies slightly by region/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 1.7 kgf·m (12.3 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (varies slightly)
Carburetion:
Mikuni VM26 (single carburetor)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
9.5 L (2.5 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change (or as specified by filter type).
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 6,000 miles.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 miles; replacement recommended every 12,000 miles or if damaged.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 500 miles or after washing/rain.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.8 L (1.9 US qt) without filter change; 2.0 L (2.1 US qt) with filter change.
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil (or equivalent) SAE 10W.
Fork Oil Capacity:
333 ml (11.25 US oz) per fork leg.
Carburetor Issues:
Can be prone to gumming up if not used regularly, requiring cleaning and synchronization.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch plates can wear over time, leading to slipping; regular adjustment is key.
Charging System:
While generally reliable, stator or regulator/rectifier issues can occur, impacting battery charging.
Valve Clearance:
Requires periodic adjustment to maintain optimal engine performance and longevity.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Company is a Japanese manufacturer with a long history in motorcycles, known for innovation and performance across various categories.
Virago Lineage:
The Virago 250 (XV250) was part of Yamaha's cruiser line, known for its accessible V-twin engine and classic styling. It was produced for many years with minor updates.
V Star Transition:
The V Star 250 is essentially a rebadged and updated version of the Virago 250, intended to align with Yamaha's newer V Star branding and styling cues.
Production Years:
The Virago 250/V Star 250 platform has been in production since the late 1980s, with continuous updates.