Motorcycle Repair: XV250 Idling, easy bike, doublecheck


Question
Hi Chris,I have a 1989 XV250 Virago and whilst starting can be a problem at times the main one is stalling when stopping, have tried altering the idle speed from 1200 to 1400 rpm but still no good.

Hoping you can help,
Thanks Lee


Answer
Hi Lee.

Having had a Virago (XV700), I know that the Virago is a relatively easy bike to work on.

However, I need to know a few things about the bike and it's condition in order to help you.

1)  Has the bike been maintained in accordance with the schedule set forth in the repair manual or owner's manual?  If you are not sure, then it may be way overdue for that service.

2)  You should not be altering the idle speed as a matter of course.  It was set at a certain speed to insure that the engine runs smoothly at all engine speeds and operational conditions.  If the XV250 is anything at all like the XV700/1000/1100, then the idlespeed should not be above 1050rpm or below 950rpm.  Doublecheck that in the repair manual (get one if you do not have one yet).

3)  Is the bike at or above 50,000 miles?  If it is near or above 50,000 miles, then the valves are due or overdue for adjustment.

4)  Is the air filter dirty?

5)  Have the carbs been attended to for the possibility of an internal problem?

6)  Has the bike been running rich?

Start with those and let me know what you find.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON