Suzuki V-Strom 250 - first thoughts

THERE’S a whole new market of adventure bikes this year, of the 250-300cc variety.

We’ve already tested the Kawasaki Versy-X 300 and Honda CRF250 Rally, and now Visordown’s Laura Thomson has ridden Suzuki’s offering, the V-Strom 250.

Here are her first thoughts from the launch in Oxfordshire: 'The 250 joins its bigger brothers – the V-Strom 650 and 1000 – in Suzuki’s adventure-tourer range, with the emphasis on tourer.

‘With cast wheels, non-switchable ABS and a cramped standing position, the V-Strom 250 feels no match for Honda’s lightweight CRF250 rally. When sitting back down, the ergonomics still seem slightly cramped, with the bars too angled towards the rider.

‘The Suzuki’s twin-cylinder power unit makes 25hp at 8,000rpm and 17.2lbft at 6,400rpm, and the engine could benefit from more torque lower down. Equally, the gears could be a little longer.

'However, if you look past these minor bugbears, you’ll find a surprisingly capable and extremely accessible road-going machine. Weighing just 188kg, and with a narrow, 800mm-high seat (the lowest in its class), the V-Strom 250 is entirely unintimidating, making it the perfect introduction to adventure-touring.

'Suzuki also hopes to target downsizing experienced riders with this model, and the all-day comfort, firm suspension (with pre-load-only rear adjustability) and impressive fuel efficiency of 88.2mpg is sure to win some over.

'A top speed of 77.7mph and the bike’s significant road presence make it feel a lot larger than it actually is, and with a price tag of £4,599, it’s seems a bargain. Kawasaki's Versys-X 300 costs £5,149 and Honda's CRF250 Rally £5,329.'

Laura's also been riding Suzuki's new GSX-R125 and GSX-S125. Read her first thoughts on the GSX-R here and check back soon for full reviews of all three bikes.