The
last of their breed, the V'go was phased out by the newer Star
line-up. With rumors of a 250 Star in the works, the 250 Virago
is the only remaining bike in production from Japan's premiere
V-twin powered line up (the first Virago was the 750 in 1981).
The name "Virago" translated means "grouchy woman,"
and many later referred to them as "the bit¢h..."
suffice to say, the 750 was a mean and nasty machine, which
allowed the metric V-Twin market to explode later on.
I
rode a 250 Virago and was pretty impressed with it. As an entry
level bike I wasn't expecting gobs of power, but it was sufficient.
The Πliter V-Twin produces the coolest sound of the entry-class
bikes, and at 5'8"/32" inseam I found the stance quite
inviting, compared to the Rebel's "awkward-for-taller-riders
footpegs" (which is about the only bad thing I can say
of the Reb). I wasn't too keen with the handlebars though, I'd
prefer something a bit wider and more forward. Maybe a Rebel-styled
bar would make it perfect for me. And the long stemmed round
mirrors would be the first thing I'd replace, the bike has some
fine styling to ruin with 70's style mirrors.
Braking
on the Yama-V required a bit more pull on the lever (which seemed
to have a rather long reach to boot) than what I'm used to but
was quite effective. The bike powered up to speed smoothly,
I had it up to 60mph during the short ride I took. Handling
was good, although the slightly longer wheelbase and more generous
rake/trail dimensions made it feel heavier than the Rebel at
slow speeds. The 5-speed tranny was smooth and consistent.
Perhaps
the biggest drawback of the 250 Virago would have to be the
price tag: MSRP $3499 new, places it $500 over the cost of a
Honda Suzuki GZ250. Then again, I think the V-twin mystique
is enough to make the difference worthwhile. But I'd still suggest
hitting up the used market first. I found one in the paper last
month for $1500...
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Rider
Review: 2000 Yamaha Virago 250