Monthly Archives: September 2011

The Big E, corndogs, fried Oreos, llamas, Holsteins, and driving in the mud

Yesterday my family went to “The Big E”, which is the largest fair in the Northeast. It is really big – it is on 175 acres in West Springfield, Massachusetts. “The Big E” has something that will interest everyone. They … Continue reading

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Other small V-Twins (other than Virago 250)

   This site is mostly about the Yamaha Virago 250 –   but here are some of the other small V-Twins.  If you have pictures on any others, please send them to me at LStrick115@aol.com.  Has anyone heard of any small (less … Continue reading

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If a bolt is loose, you could lose it (especially chrome ones)

If you have a Virago 250, you might recognize the large allen bolt in the picture as the bolt that attaches the rear fender to the frame.  This bolt is almost black, so I polished mine – it was stubborn so I have spent … Continue reading

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LED turn signals for Yamaha Virago 250 Part II

My LED turn signals arrived, so I just installed them on my 2002 Yamaha Virago 250.  I looked through every single LED turn signal on ebay – I liked six of them – and ended up buying the cheapest one. I really like them … Continue reading

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Close call Virago 250 vs. Mercedes and flying in the slow lane at 50 mph

       I have a 47 mile commute (one way), over half of it is two lane roads with hills and curves.  Now that schools are open, I am on the road about 3 hours a day now.  Anyway, today … Continue reading

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How does a Supertrapp muffler sound on a Virago 250? 8 to 14 discs are optimal for XV250 – UPDATED 9/14/11

I still have not driven it enough, but basically it sounds smoother than my old system.  It sounds smooth and powerful but I think I still like the sound of my first exhaust better.  My first exhaust had more of … Continue reading

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The cheap Virago 250 “2-to-1” exhaust mod Part II – you need one used Supertrapp muffler – reduces exhaust system weight from 6.2kg (13.6 pounds) to 4.3 kg (9.5 pounds)

Here is the 20 year old Supertrapp muffler I just put on my Virago 250. One thing I learned is that Supertrapp mufflers are great for someone who does not want to fool with carburetors and changing jets.  They have … Continue reading

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The Minimalist Virago 250 (also Functional + Lightweight + Low cost of ownership)

The basic plan/goals I am trying to follow with my Virago 250: Minimalist Functional (a little like the bikes in Mad Max?) as opposed to stylish – does not have to look perfect Lightweight/weight reduction (don’t add accessories – instead, … Continue reading

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Yamaha Virago 250 vs. Honda CB-160

     I have lightened my Virago 250 a little, it weighs about the same as the bike I drove when I was 16 – a Honda CB-160.  The Virago is a long stroke engine, and its pistons are almost the … Continue reading

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Reflective vests, Supertrapp, and the left side of the church

     I got home late last night from a wedding – so I am pretty groggy. I still wanted to drive the bike to work today but 3 stations said rain in northwest CT. I am lucky to have my commute … Continue reading

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