You won’t find many mean looking street bikes in the 250 cc segment. Most of them are unintimidating and small and due to this fact many beginners aren’t eager of buying one and find it hard to follow the friendly advices of more experienced bikers. However there are a few interesting options that worth to be taken into consideration.

At the front of the pack sits the sporty Kawasaki Ninja 250R, followed by the Honda Rebel and the Suzuki brothers – TU250X and GZ250. The Star Motorcycle is also worthy of being mentioned among them, as is the only V-twin 250 bike found in this class. It is significantly tinier than its bigger siblings, but its compact dimensions, easy handling and the low weight make it a good choice for those who are still learning the secrets of riding a bike.

While most of the small bikes aren’t capable of offering any terrible thrills, the Star Motorcycle V Star 250 was always seen as a decent cruiser that manages to deliver a reasonable riding experience and does a great job as an entry level model.

Hit the jump for more information on the Star Motorcycle V Star 250.

2013 Star Motorcycle V Star 250

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Star Motorcycle V Star 250
  • Engine/Motor: 15-cubic-inch (249cc) air-cooled, SOHC 60-degree V-twin, 2 valves/cylinder
  • Transmission: 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Key Features

-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.

-The V Star 250 is the only V-twin in its class.

-Estimated 78 mpg* means almost 200 miles between fill-ups.

Engine

-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 and Suspension

-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

-A custom style handlebar gives the V Star 250 a modern look and comfortable riding position.

-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.

-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.

Specifications

Engine Type

15-cubic-inch (249cc) air-cooled, SOHC 60-degree V-twin, 2 valves/cylinder

Bore x Stroke

49 x 66mm

Compression Ratio

10.0:1

Fuel Delivery

Mikuni® 26mm

Ignition TCI:

Transistor Controlled Ignition

Transmission

5-speed; multiplate wet clutch

Final Drive

Chain

Frame

Steel tube

Suspension / Front

33mm fork; 5.5-in travel

Suspension / Rear

Dual shocks; adjustable preload, 3.9-in travel

Brakes / Front

Hydraulic disc, 282mm

Brakes / Rear

130mm drum

Tires / Front

3.00-18

Tires / Rear

130/90-15

Wheels

Laced Spokes

Length

86.2 in

Width

28.0 in

Height

41.7 in

Seat Height

27.0 in

Wheelbase

58.7 in

Fuel Capacity

2.4 gal

Fuel Economy**

78 mpg

Wet Weight***

326 lb

Warranty

1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)

MSRP*

$4,290 (Deep Blue) Available from September 2012


Quotes

Motorcycle-About ---- "If there's one aspect of the V-Star 250 that lags behind in its overall setup, it's the brakes: initial bite feels soft, possibly intentionally in order to keep beginners from locking up, and though adequate for more situations, these stoppers could use a bit more clamping power and less lever effort. ABS would be a welcome option... but overall, the V-Star 250's package makes it a surprisingly fun bike for farting around town or taking on the twisties, even if your body's big enough to make this Lilliputian ride look like a clown cycle."

Cycleworld ---- "This scaled-down Yamacruiser never won a Ten Best award, but don’t let that lower your opinion of what is a terrific little bike. First of all, its 21-year existence tells you that it has staying power on a scale that few bikes ever achieve. What’s more, it has had virtually no significant changes to the engine (or most of its other parts) over its lifetime, powerful evidence that it offers mechanical resilience, as well. And it looks the cruiser part to a T, a bike that’s so nicely scaled that until you get right next to it, you don’t fully comprehend its compact size."

Motorcycle ---- "The 249cc cruiser had a short run as the Route 66 beginning in 1988. The bike resurfaced in ’95 as the Virago 250, and then in 2007 was renamed the V Star 250 as it became part of the brand of Star Motorcycles. Name games aside, after recently spending some time with the V Star 250 I discovered that this Little Cruiser That Can stirred memories of those days when I first began fantasizing about riding."