Suzuki GSX-250R: a sports car that also loves the city [ROAD TEST]

Riding a small-displacement motorbike means immersing yourself in a different reality, but sometimes also pleasantly surprising. This is what happened when we got on the small Suzuki GSX-250R, in fact, but only in terms of engine size. It is, in fact, a real motorbike, with good performance and absolutely versatile. I want to say it right away: this test was exhilarating and absolutely positive. Of course, not being a "big" one involves some compromises - which we will see later - but this could be the right choice for those looking for a fun and high-performance alternative to the many average scooters that crowd the market.

Aesthetics and finishes:

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Sporty look, it seems to have a higher displacement

This Suzuki GSX-250R is beautiful, there are no other definitions. The sample in question for testing has the advantage of having the racing colors of the Moto GP, a factor that increases its charm and captures attention at every step. The livery best suits the angular and modern features of the hull. The dashboard is fully digital and offers a wide range of information. In addition to cruising speed and engine rpm, we have the time (even if you get carried away and don't return home...) but also the gear indicator, very convenient not only for beginners, the total kilometers traveled and the various lights for neutral, oil level and engine status. Note the ABS indicator (the system is standard) and the RPM indicator which alerts the rider when it is time to change gear. Perfect for those who are having their first experience on two wheels and don't want to "pull" the engine too much by relying only on their ears.

Some finishes that look a little too neglected need to be reviewed. In particular the levers and the area of ​​the rider and passenger seats, comfortable but perhaps looking a little old. But let's repeat, comfort is good. It's a shame that under the saddle of the second there is only space for documents.

Very beautiful, however, are the finishes of the front and rear rims with the two large brake discs and the red border, contrasting on the black, which recalls the world of GPs.

Engine and performance:

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Cheerful and always usable twin-cylinder

The Suzuki GSX-250R is powered by a 250 cm³ twin-cylinder engine that delivers 25 HP at 8.000 rpm, deeply revised by Japanese engineers to maximize torque at low and medium speeds, making the bike usable in all circumstances. This chiseling work has also made it possible to improve consumption (the company claims 480 km on a full tank) which is now at the top of the category. The engine meets the new Euro 4 standards. Beyond the numbers, the sensations given by the engine are excellent.

The starting point is there, as is the regularity in the extra-urban sections to be tackled without full throttle. At other speeds a very pleasant "crunch" effect appears in the sound. It helps to remember what we are driving and why not, go back in time a few years.

Ride and handling:

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Agile and light, traffic is its kingdom

The GSX-250R handles well in all asphalt conditions thanks to the perfect proportion of dimensions and suspension calibration. The semi-handlebars are in a relatively low position, to underline the racing nature of the bike in question, but in reality finding the best riding position is very simple. Both feet rest firmly on the ground, the knees never tire as do the shoulders, even during the most extreme use, including tight hairpin bends and changes of direction. A feature that makes you think that the GSX-250R can also be used for medium-length trips, perhaps the classic weekend home-lake or mountain-home, with a nice bag mounted on the tank.

The new 10-spoke rims, coupled with the tyres, provide a solid grip on the road and a true sports car look. Stopping power is provided by petal disc brakes at the front and rear. The anti-lock braking system made by Bosch is available to offer even greater confidence and control of the motorcycle.

Price and consumption:

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Maybe a little expensive but you can use it practically all year round

To buy the new GSX-250R you need 5.540 euros. Not a few in an absolute sense, aligned to the price of a decent medium-sized scooter that will offer more protection and comfort, but less driving sensation. Perhaps, compared to the price at which it is on sale, some details could be more carefully looked after. Small details which, however, could make the difference at the time of purchase. The front brake lever looks too spartan, while the handlebar is well made, but the top is not adjustable in height. This clashes with the veiled tourist vocation of the vehicle which - despite the name which recalls the racing world - can and must be used to clock up kilometers and not to set times on the track. The muffler is generous, making the 250 resemble its bigger sisters. It's all appearances, it's true, but who doesn't like receiving praise for their bike?

The company claims 480 km of autonomy with a full tank of petrol. This is a value very close to reality, even when using the bike in non-ideal conditions, putting it to the test so to speak. Consumption remains low, to the delight of the wallet, but there are no compromises in performance.

PROS AND CONS
We like it:
Handling, driving position, sporty line
We do not like it:
Some construction details such as the clutch and front brake levers

GSX-250R: the Motorionline Report Card

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Photo shoot: Matteo Pozzi

Tester clothing:
Jacket: Spidi
Pants: Spidi
Gloves: Spidi
Boots: Spidi
Helmet: Caberg Drift