Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe 2023 Yamaha V Star 250 is a 249cc, air-cooled 60-degree V-twin cruiser with a five-speed transmission, chain final drive and a 27.0-inch seat. Yamaha lists a 324-pound wet weight for the 49-state version and 326 pounds for the California version. The California bike also has a 2.4-gallon tank instead of 2.5 gallons, so identify the exact model variant before ordering parts or estimating range.
2023 Yamaha V Star 250 specifications
| Specification | 2023 V Star 250 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc, air-cooled, SOHC, 60-degree V-twin |
| Valvetrain | Two valves |
| Bore × stroke | 49.0 × 66.0 mm |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel system | Mikuni 26mm carburetor |
| Ignition | TCI |
| Transmission | Five-speed |
| Clutch | Multiplate wet clutch |
| Final drive | Chain |
| Overall length × width × height | 86.2 × 28.0 × 41.7 inches |
| Seat height | 27.0 inches |
| Wheelbase | 58.7 inches |
| Rake | 32 degrees |
| Trail | 4.7 inches |
| Ground clearance | 5.7 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 2.5 gallons (49-state); 2.4 gallons (California) |
| Wet weight | 324 pounds (49-state); 326 pounds (California) |
| Front suspension | 33mm fork, 5.5 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Dual shocks, adjustable preload, 3.9 inches of travel |
| Front brake | 282mm hydraulic disc |
| Rear brake | 130mm drum |
| Front tire | Cheng Shin C-916, 3.00-18 |
| Rear tire | Cheng Shin C-915, 130/90-15 |
These are Yamaha’s published equipment and dimensional specifications, not independent measurements or road-test results.
What the engine and drivetrain specifications mean
Small-displacement V-twin
The 249cc engine uses a 60-degree V-twin layout, air cooling, a single overhead camshaft and two valves. Its 49.0mm bore and relatively long 66.0mm stroke describe the engine’s internal proportions; they do not by themselves establish horsepower, acceleration or highway performance. Yamaha specifies a 10.0:1 compression ratio and a Mikuni 26mm carburetor rather than electronic fuel injection.
Five-speed transmission and chain drive
A five-speed gearbox and multiplate wet clutch transmit power to the rear wheel through a chain. Chain drive requires periodic cleaning, lubrication and adjustment. A chain-cleaning brush and motorcycle chain lubricant can help with that general task, but neither is automatically a Yamaha-specific replacement part. Use the maintenance procedure and specifications for the exact model code in the owner’s or service manual.
#1 Best Overall
- Comprehensive coverage of maintenance and repair tasks for a wide range of vehicles and equipment.
- Includes clear instructions, diagrams, and illustrations to simplify complex procedures.
- A trusted reference guide designed to support both DIY owners and professional technicians.
Dimensions, seat height and chassis
Seat height and rider fit
The 27.0-inch seat is one of Yamaha’s stated low-seat features. Seat height alone cannot guarantee that every rider will reach the ground comfortably: inseam, footwear, seat shape and suspension sag also affect fit. The 58.7-inch wheelbase, 32-degree rake and 4.7-inch trail describe the chassis geometry; Yamaha’s “light and nimble” wording is manufacturer positioning, not an independent handling test.
Suspension and brakes
Up front is a 33mm fork with 5.5 inches of travel. The rear uses dual shocks with adjustable preload and 3.9 inches of travel, allowing spring-preload changes for load and preference within the adjustment range. Braking equipment consists of a 282mm hydraulic front disc and a 130mm rear drum. The published specifications do not establish stopping distances, brake feel or performance in wet conditions.
Rank #2
- Step-by-step procedures written from a complete teardown and rebuild, giving you the confidence to tackle repairs at any skill level.
- Over 700+ clear photos and diagrams that simplify complex systems, helping you complete jobs faster and with fewer mistakes.
- Comprehensive troubleshooting and fault-finding guides to quickly diagnose problems and reduce costly downtime.
Tires and clearance
Factory-listed tires are a Cheng Shin C-916 3.00-18 at the front and a Cheng Shin C-915 130/90-15 at the rear. Ground clearance is 5.7 inches. Replacement tires should match the motorcycle’s approved sizes and load/speed requirements; confirm those details for the specific market version and current manual.
Fuel capacity, economy and realistic range
The 49-state model has a 2.5-gallon tank, while the California model is listed at 2.4 gallons. Yamaha Motorsports, USA, identified 78 mpg as an estimate in 2023 and said that estimate means “almost 200 miles between fill-ups.” That is a manufacturer estimate, not an independent test or a guaranteed range. Actual distance varies with speed, traffic, temperature, maintenance, rider and payload, and the amount of fuel you choose to leave in reserve.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Brand new service & repair manual.
- For Yamaha Virago 250 1995-2007, V-Star 250 2008-2023.
- High quality product covers all systems, maintenance and repairs.
- Hundreds of photos & detailed instructions.
49-state versus California model
| Item | XV250P1B | XV250P1CB |
|---|---|---|
| Version identified in parts lookup | Raven, 49-state | Raven, California |
| Fuel capacity | 2.5 gallons | 2.4 gallons |
| Wet weight | 324 pounds | 326 pounds |
| Parts diagrams | Separate 49-state diagram | Separate California diagram |
The parts catalog identifies XV250P1B and XV250P1CB as separate submodels with separate diagrams. Equipment and emissions-related components can differ by market, so do not assume a part listed for one version fits the other.
How to order replacement parts correctly
- Read the vehicle identification and model information. Confirm whether the motorcycle is XV250P1B (49-state) or XV250P1CB (California), rather than relying only on the paint color or the seller’s title.
- Open the matching OEM fiche. Select the correct model-year and submodel diagram before browsing an assembly.
- Record the OEM part number. Use the number shown for the exact diagram and position.
- Cross-check the number with the seller. Catalog stock messages, prices and availability can change, and a listing is not a guarantee that inventory is current.
- Verify the revision before installation. For safety-critical, emissions-related or engine parts, compare the part number and installation instructions with Yamaha’s current documentation for your motorcycle.
Owner’s and service manuals
A retailer listing identifies the 2023 owner’s manual by OEM number LIT-11626-36-18. A model fiche listing also identifies an owner’s manual and a service manual. Those catalog entries establish that the documents are listed; they do not confirm current stock, a particular retailer’s availability or any marketplace listing. A printed owner’s manual is useful for routine controls and maintenance, while a service manual is the more appropriate reference for repair procedures, specifications and disassembly.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- V-star 950 (2009-2012)
Rank #4
- Whether it's simple maintenance or complete restoration, don't start work without Clymer, the leader in service manuals
What the published specifications do—and do not—tell you
- Established: engine layout and displacement, dimensions, suspension and brake hardware, tire sizes, fuel capacities, wet weights and model-code distinctions listed above.
- Not established by these figures: horsepower, torque, acceleration, stopping distance, ride comfort, reliability, real-world fuel economy or suitability for every rider.
- Use estimates as estimates: Yamaha’s 78-mpg figure and “almost 200 miles” statement are manufacturer estimates, not measured guarantees.
- Check the exact market: California and 49-state parts diagrams are not interchangeable by assumption.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.




