Yamaha Virago 250 vs Harley-davidson Nightster
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Yamaha Virago 250 vs Harley-davidson Nightster. Yamaha Virago 250: 21 hp @ 8,000 rpm hp, 148 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 130 km/h, Motoryk rating 7.5/10. Harley-davidson Nightster: 89 hp @ 7,500 rpm hp, 220 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 185 km/h (estimated), Motoryk rating 7.8/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Yamaha Virago 250
Harley-davidson Nightster
Horsepower (hp)
21 hp
89 hp
Torque (Nm)
20 Nm
95 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
130 km/h
185 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
148 kg
220 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
21 hp @ 8,000 rpm
89 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque
20 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
95 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Top Speed
130 km/h
185 km/h (estimated)
Weight
148 kg (wet/curb weight)
220 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
3.5 L/100km (approx. 28.5 km/L) — typical real-world average
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Yamaha Virago 250
7.5/10
"The perfect starter bike you'll sadly outgrow fast."
Pros
+Bulletproof reliability record
+Shaft drive, zero maintenance
+Confidence-inspiring low seat
Cons
−Outgrown within 18 months
−Carburetors clog when stored
−Highway speeds feel strained
Harley-davidson Nightster
7.8/10
"A genuinely good motorcycle that earns respect beyond the badge."
Pros
+Revolution Max engine is excellent
+Actually corners with confidence
+Low, manageable seat height
Cons
−Stock seat is punishment
−Cramped for tall riders
−Limited wind protection
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
