Suzuki GSX 250R

Suzuki’s new GSX-250R is a fully-faired streetbike that brings Suzuki’s sportsbike heritage to a younger, less experienced audience. Featuring sporty good looks, responsive yet easy-to-control performance, nimble handling, and a comfortable riding position, the GSX-250R is equally at home on the daily commute as it is when touring for long distances.

The 248cc parallel-twin engine that powers the GSX-250R underwent thorough analysis and optimisation to maximise low- to midrange torque and provide a powerful ride that features an easy to control engine. The overall efficiency of the engine’s design has helped achieve excellent fuel economy and clean performance that satisfies the stringent Euro 4 emission regulations.

With a bore x stroke of 53.5mm by 55.2mm and 11.5:1 compression ratio, the GSX-250R puts out 18.4kW at 8000rpm and a strong 23.4Nm at 6500rpm. The cam profile for the GSX-250R delivers maximum acceleration performance at speeds between 20km/h to 90km/h, as this is the range that is designed to be used in most of the time.

As an additional benefit, the cam profile also suppresses noise generation to deliver a smoother, more pleasant ride. The honing pattern used for the cylinder barrels maintains lubrication for the pistons in a manner that helps minimise any loss of performance due to friction while the cylinder head adopts roller type rocker arms that minimise friction loss.

The port sections on the intake valves are designed to optimise airflow into the combustion chamber. This helps achieve a high level of thermal efficiency for improved performance and reduced emissions. Thin, low tension piston rings were adopted to reduce friction and the shape of the piston ring grooves was also optimised.

Adopting the use of projected tip spark plugs speeds up the rate of combustion. This improves response, especially when the throttle is not open far, and also improves fuel economy. Optimisation of the oil pump reduces friction loss and contributes to an increase in engine output and improvement in fuel economy.

The two-into-one exhaust system for the GSX-250R features an optimised shape for the chamber in front of the catalyser. This maximises acceleration performance at mid-range speeds, while the efficiency of the system also reduces exhaust emissions. The muffler adopts a shape that contributes to better engine output and torque by reducing power loss.

The GSX-250R features a reverse-lit LCD instrument panel. The LCD instruments include speedo, tacho, odometer, dual tripmeters, gear position, riding range, average fuel consumption, fuel gauge, rpm indicator, Oil change timing indicator and clock. LED indicators include those for the turn signals, high beam, neutral, malfunction, ABS (Only for ABS model), rpm indicator, coolant temperature and oil pressure.

The relatively low mounting point of the separate left and right handlebars is sporty, but at the same time designed to provide a comfortable riding position around town or when touring. Front and rear (KYB) suspension with custom settings for the GSX-250R contributes to weight reduction and retains reassuring handling characteristics, while at the same time adding a sportier feel.

The GSX-250R adopts the sporty styling of independent seats for the rider and passenger. Even so, each seat provides plenty of cushioning to make long rides comfortable. The slim design of the fuel tank also helps the rider easily plant their feet on the ground when stopped.

Key chassis dimensions for the GSX-250R include a wheelbase of 1430mm, rake and trail of 25°6’/104mm and seat height of 790mm. The sporty flair of newly designed 10-spoke wheels pairs with IRC tires that provide a solid grip on the road. Stopping power is provided by petal-type front and rear disc brakes and an anti-lock brake system made by Bosch is also available. The tyres are sized 110/80-17 at the front and 140/70-17 at the rear.

Confirmation on the availability and pricing of the GSX-250R is to be announced in the coming weeks. In the meantime, head to www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au where you can check out the Suzuki range in detail.

While it shares its underpinnings with the GW250, the styling is more in line with Suzuki’s larger GSX-R sportbikes. Other features include an LCD multi-function display, 31.1-inch seat height and a choice of six color options: a MotoGP-inspired livery, white, black, black with gold and white stripes, red and black or blue and white.