Choosing the ideal motorcycle can sometimes prove challenging, especially in the case of riders who have just obtained their licenses and don’t know exactly what to look for. Because the Star V Star 250 often emerges as the uncompromising solution, we decided to get a closer look at the 2010 model year and see what makes it so great.
Introduction
2010 Star V Star 250
To begin with, this baby features a 60-degree V-twin engine despite its 249cc displacement and that is pretty unique in this category. Combine that with the benefits of a low seat height, amazing fit and finish as well as an extremely low starting price and it sure invites to get a closer look at it and even a short spin, of course, on it.
The bike was designed to be extremely nimble so it only weighs 324 lbs wet and it features a low center of gravity. Also, stability around corners is ensured by a 58.7 inches wheelbase, 18-inch front and 15-inch rear wheel, making this small cruiser easy to toss around and confidence inspiring as well.
Although it does a very good job in appearing to be brand new, this bike is actually 21-years-old technologically and visually. Check out the history page and see the 1989 Yamaha Virago 250 for a fairly shocking confirmation. It’s amazing how this bike almost travels in time and manages to be as successful today as it was when it first rolled out the production line 21 years ago.
Definitely, the best about the V Star is the 249cc, air-cooled, SOHC, 60-degree V-twin engine with 2 valves per cylinder. Now this is something that you’re not supposed to get in this category, and which powers Star as the incontestable leader of this category, although without offering the best mileage (78 mpg).
2009 Honda Rebel
Honda sells the 2009 Rebel for an MSRP starting at $3,399, which is quite good, and even qualifies it as the best entry-level cruiser for the buck. That’s simply because the engine behind the affordable Honda cruiser is a 234cc air-cooled parallel twin-cylinder, SOHC; two-valves per cylinder unit. Although not a V-twin and a little bit smaller, this provides similar performances thanks to the 331 lbs wet weight. Mileage though raises a question mark: only 66 mpg?
The 2009 Suzuki GZ250, although considered and sold as a standard bike, features classic styling and even a pair of standard spoked wheels, making it ideal for this comparison. Powered by a fuel-injected 249cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC engine, the GZ can brag about an outstanding 82 mpg and that says pretty much all about it. The MSRP starts at $3,799.
Exterior
2010 Star V Star 250
By simply taking a look at the 2010 Star V Star 250 and realizing that this cruiser has been around looking like this for the last twenty years and needing no serious change whatsoever, it’s easy to realize that any other bike in its class is simply a lame attempt to match the unprecedented success.
The great deal about the quarter-liter V Star is that it doesn’t just manage to look like a veritable cruiser, despite the obvious displacement and overall dimensions issues, but goes further than that and features a nice custom touch. Displaying an 18-inch front wheel and raised handlebars, the V Star 250 clearly indicates that the regular cruiser look doesn’t suit it well.
In opposition to the raised handlebars, the seat is positioned only 27 inches from the ground, while the footpegs are mounted way up front. This way, the comfort triangle is successfully achieved and the rest was just a matter of mounting the appropriate units on it. The teardrop tank looks awesome and so are the fenders covering that pair of tires that make the bike look well proportioned and built to be ridden, quite frankly.
2010 Star V Star 250
The headlight and the signal lights are all rounded up, while the taillight is the rectangular-shaped one from the late 1980s. We appreciate the two-into-two exhaust as well as the beautifully chromed V-twin engine. Like on any veritable old timer, the V Star 250 comes with dual shocks rear suspension and drum rear brake that hits nostalgics straight in the heart.
Apart from the Raven paintjob, the 2010 model year doesn’t distinguish from the 2009 one at all. What, did you expect anything special? Next year maybe.
The main reason why Star doesn’t upgrade the V Star 250 is as simple as the bike itself. The money invested in technology such as a fuel-injection system, let’s say, would have to be paid back by the buyer and the whole idea of this bike is simplicity and affordability. So why complicate your life when, as a manufacturer, you can deliver the same carbureted bike for an unbeatable price. In this case we’re talking about an MSRP of $3,990.
Conclusion
2010 Star V Star 250
Like always before, the V Star 250 manages to provide an accurate impression of what cruising means from the very first ride. This bike is very comfortable, incredibly reliable and has plenty of power and torque to keep on grunting underneath a rider even when this last has long put an end to the first stage of his learning process. That’s what getting the best out of a motorcycle means and with this great mileage it’s very hard to start looking for anything else than a Star when finally deciding to hit the next level.
Light weight and a seat just 27 inches from the pavement make the V Star 250 a great trainer as well as a great choice for riders who appreciate the fun that comes in small packages.
Dual exhausts, plenty of quality chrome and typical Star attention to detail; this is one sharp little cruiser.
Front disc brake provides highly controllable stopping power.
Engine:
2010 Star V Star 250
Air-cooled, 249cc, 60-degree V-twin engine with a long, 66mm stroke produces plenty of bottom-end torque and smooth roll-on power. The only V-twin engine in its class.
Single 26mm Mikuni® downdraft carburetor ensures optimal fuel/air mixing and delivery with superb throttle response.
Widely geared five-speed transmission makes the most of V Star 250’s powerband.
Easy, dependable electric starting.
Beautiful dual chrome exhaust pipes let the engine breathe and put out that classic V-twin rumble.
Automatic cam chain tensioner virtually eliminates maintenance and helps extend engine life.
Chassis/Suspension:
2010 Star V Star 250
58.7-inch wheelbase creates a long, low package with great handling and maneuverability.
282mm single front disc brake and a rear drum brake provide plenty of stopping power.
Plush and low-stepped saddle keeps the center of gravity low and lets almost everybody flatfoot the pavement.
Telescopic front fork with 5.5 inches of travel provides a nice, smooth ride.
Twin rear shocks feature 3.9 inches of travel and adjustable spring preload for versatility under various loads.
Additional Features:
2010 Star V Star 250
Extensive chrome details accent engine and side covers for incomparable “big bike” fit and finish.
Stylishly sculpted teardrop fuel tank features 2.5-gallon capacity for excellent cruising range.
Chrome pullback handlebars are easy to reach and great looking.
Forward-set footpegs enhance rider comfort by creating added legroom.
Wide rear fender and front and rear wire-spoked wheels add the perfect classic, retro touch to this stylish package.
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