Yamaha Xv250 Virago Review

Used Buyer Review

The XV250 Virago is probably the most honest beginner cruiser ever built, and I mean that as a genuine compliment. Yamaha built these things from 1988 right through to the mid-2000s with almost no changes, which tells you everything — they got it right early and left it alone. The 249cc V-twin sounds better than it has any right to, pulls smoothly from low revs, and the low seat height makes shorter riders feel immediately confident. It's not fast, but it was never supposed to be. Used examples are everywhere, and that's both good and bad. Good because parts and knowledge are abundant. Bad because half the ones you'll find have been dropped, neglected, or thrashed by nervous beginners who had no idea what they were doing. Check the forks carefully for leaks, inspect the carbs — they gum up badly if left sitting — and look for crash damage on the engine casings and exhaust pipes. A well-maintained one will genuinely last forever with basic attention.