Cruisers

2008Yamaha V-Star 250

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The 2008 Yamaha V Star 250 is an entry-level cruiser designed for new riders and those seeking a lightweight, manageable motorcycle. Its compact 249cc V-twin engine delivers approachable performance with classic cruiser styling, making it ideal for commuting and casual riding. The bike is best known for its affordability, reliability, and beginner-friendly handling.

Capacity: 249.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 137.0 kg
Seat height: 686 mm
Power: 21.0 HP (15.4 kW)

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Other years 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding75%

Daily riding65%

Touring25%

Two-up30%

Track5%

Best for: Built as an entry-level cruiser for relaxed neighborhood rides and easy commuting rather than any kind of high-performance riding.
Built for: It has classic cruiser styling with a V-twin engine character, dual chrome exhausts, and a laid-back low-revving feel rather than outright performance.
Not ideal for: This is not the bike for highway touring, high-speed travel, passenger comfort on long trips, or any off-road use.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 686mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Yamaha V-Star 250, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 249.0 ccm
Power: 21.0 HP (15.4 kW)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.1533 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 49.0 x 66.0 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCI
Valves per cylinder: 2
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1491 mm
Overall length: 2189 mm
Overall width: 815 mm
Overall height: 1140 mm
Seat height: 686 mm
Dry weight: 137.0 kg
Wet weight: 147.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 9.50 litres
Ground clearance: 145 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Steel tube
Front suspension: 33mm fork
Rear suspension: Dual shocks
Front wheel travel: 140 mm
Rear wheel travel: 99 mm
Rake (fork angle): 32.0°
Trail: 102 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 282 mm
Rear brakes: Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakes diameter: 130 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 130/90-15

Other

Color options: Black Cherry

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2008	2012	2016	2020	2026
Capacity	249 cc	246 cc	249 cc	249 cc	249 cc
Dry weight	137 kg	137 kg	137 kg	137 kg	137 kg
Seat height	686 mm	686 mm	686 mm	686 mm	686 mm
Fuel capacity	9.5 L	9.1 L	9.5 L	9.5 L	9.5 L