Yamaha Virago is an entire legendary motorcycle family combining several modifications. Between themselves, they differ in engine size, arrangement of the fuel system, body kit parts and minor external features. However, they have more in common.
"Witch"
Most fans of the model are sure that the word "Virago" translates as "Witch". The image of a free, courageous and beautiful sorceress flying in the night seems simply magical. And it is consistent with the appearance and performance characteristics of the Yamaha Virago motorcycle . However, the original meaning of this word is somewhat different. It translates as “masculine woman,” as any dictionary indicates. The creators invested in the motorcycle, rather, the image of a harsh warrior than a cute witch.
And the name turned out to be suitable. “Virago” is endowed with a masculine character, excellent stamina and unprecedented strength.
Character
At a glance it’s clear that Yamaha Virago combines the features of a neoclassic and a chopper. Moreover, the mass-produced model is quite similar to the custom one.
To match the appearance and character. Responses of owners note that the complaisant Virago remains a faithful companion both in the modern city and in the motorized one. It is stable on the track, maneuverable on busy streets, you will not be frightened by paving stones or a country road.
Brothers and cousins
The central figure in the Yamaha Virago family is the 535. This figure, of course, describes the size of the engine. There are several modifications of the model with different engine volumes and, accordingly, different power. This allows potential customers who have already fallen in love with the Virago style to choose the model that best suits their requirements, goals, and financial capabilities.
The main difference between the brothers is the engine size. Serially produced such: 125, 250, 400, 535, 750, 920 and 1100.
The most widely used Yamaha Virago 535 and 400, built on the same base. These versions have long been discontinued, but the demand for them in the secondary market does not subside today. This is understandable, because both the manufacturer and the car owners with great experience, and just ordinary people in love with the romance of the bike culture, see in this model a middle ground, the embodiment of the style and concept of the entire Virago family.
The younger ones are also similar - 125 and 250. Experienced bikers claim that one of these Yamaha Virago models can become ideal as the first motorcycle. Reviews of experienced motorcyclists confirm the ease of control of these "horses", a comfortable fit, maneuverability and unpretentiousness. What else can a beginner dream of?
The older liter “brothers” are mostly to the liking of those who have driving experience. Do not think that they are capricious or too expensive to maintain. It's just that the beginner usually does not put forward such high requirements for the bike, which corresponds to "one thousand". This is a reliable "iron horse", ready to overcome any distance and steadfastly bear all the hardships.
Since the Virago was discontinued, a quarter century has passed. But the popular love for her is so great that a copy is made today. The Chinese Lifan LF250 is almost identical to the 250th Witch, and the Russian-made Stels 400 Cruiser is a complete imitation of the Virago 400.
V-shaped heart
The main characteristic of Yamaha Virago is a very reliable and durable motor. The owners describe many of its advantages, highlighting only one drawback. According to reviews, the Japanese "Witch" is not the most successful sump pan. The crankcase itself is low, making it easy to damage on rough roads. With a relatively strong blow, it can crack.
The entire Virago series has another drawback - the problem with the starter bendix.
Gas tanks and appetite
At first, the 535 model was produced with one gas tank. It was located under the saddle. This allowed to significantly reduce the center of gravity of the bike structure, which, of course, positively affected its stability. Its capacity was 8.6 liters. Between the seat and the tidy was a decorative false tank. Fuel entered the engine not by itself, as in most motorcycles, but by means of a gasoline pump.
Since 1986, the concept has changed, and in place of the decorative tank there was another, real one, with a volume of 4.5 liters. This allows you to travel long distances without refueling.
Speaking about the appetites of the Japanese "Witch", it is worth considering the year of manufacture and modification of the model, season, conditions, road surface. On average, at a cruising speed of 120 km / h, about 6 liters of gasoline will “eat” on the Yamaha Virago highway. Of course, having a passenger and filled wardrobe trunks will increase consumption.
Transmission
It is believed that the “Yamaha” often have problems with the work of the checkpoint. However, this does not apply to the Yamaha Virago family. Technical characteristics ensure reliable operation of all nodes. Moreover, many bikers consider PPC work exemplary.
The only claim sometimes made by the owners of the model is some roughness in terms of switching.
Frame and body kit
There are two versions of the organization of the gas tank: one under the saddle or two-tank design. The volume of a single tank is simply ridiculous, and in the second case, still no matter where it went - 13.5 liters. However, today in the secondary market it is almost impossible to find a single-tank motorcycle from this series, even if someone suddenly comes to mind to ask such a goal.
The bike is insensitive to falls. The supporting frame is designed to last and designed for a much more powerful engine. Experts say that it is pretty tough by the standards of this class. This leads to excellent handling of the bike and partially compensates for the non-rigidity of the fork.
Suspension
Thin 35-mm feathers of a fork quite tangibly twists at sharp braking and during attempts of active taxiing. The silent blocks of the shock absorbers located at the rear quickly become unusable, subject to frequent driving with a passenger. In addition, the rear suspension is too soft for two.
However, car owners claim that with the developed dealer network "Yamaha" and ample opportunities for tuning, the above problems can easily be eliminated. Buying gas-filled shock absorbers will provide comfortable riding and eliminate the need for frequent repairs.
Prices
Speaking of prices for Yamaha Virago motorcycles , the review is worth starting with a reminder that it is almost impossible to find this model in motorcycle shows today. In the secondary market, the price range is quite wide. It takes into account the year of manufacture, the number of former owners, the degree of wear, the intensity of operation and much more.
Many fans of the brand note that even today you can find the device thirty years old in perfect condition.
Today, the cost of motorcycles of the Virago family starts at 100,000 rubles. The most popular models are 400/535 and 1100, respectively, their prices are higher. Some sellers ask in the region of 200-250 thousand.
For a small car, which can be an ideal first transport for a beginner, you have to fork out an average of 150 thousand rubles.
Tuning and customization
Yamaha Virago is a tidbit for every customizer. Specialists note that this is a very grateful material, which is pleasant to work with. This is largely due to the wide range of special stages that the manufacturer offers.
With minor upgrades, you can completely change the look of your Yamaha Virago bike. Photo tuned "Witches" allows you to see this.
In the photo above, the steering wheel is replaced on the model, the exhaust pipes are digested, some changes have affected the body kit, wheels, and brake system. Deep black color, as usual, looks luxurious and expensive.
Some enthusiasts go even further, upgrading the Virago to their own needs and creative impulses: weld strollers, hang with wardrobe trunks and even assemble powerful trikes from them.