Suzuki launches a baby V-Strom

By Réhann Coetzee

 

Suzuki says its V-Strom series has won the hearts of riders around the world. It has certainly established itself as an unassuming range of adventure tourers since the introduction of the V-Strom 1000 in 2002 and the V-Strom 650 in 2004.

Suzuki has now expanded the range by adding an offering to younger and first-time buyers: the V-Strom DL250. The 250 “Strom” will also be an attractive option to riders returning to motorcycles after a long absence.

Suzuki says the baby Strom is equally at home in city traffic as on the open road. It features a comfortable riding position and riders will be able to firmly reach the ground with both feet. The twin-cylinder engine has enough power and easy to control low- to mid-range torque for a comfortable ride. The optional topbox and panniers will add convenience for daily use as well as touring.

Adding to the bike’s touring abilities are the wind-tunnel tested windscreen, a 12V power point to power a GPS or recharge a cellphone, a large rear aluminium carrier and a 17-litre fuel tank could give a range of up to 500km between refills.

The modern instrumentation is via a reverse-lit full-LCD panel that keeps the rider informed on speed, engine revs, distances, two trip metres, gear position, the time, fuel range, average fuel consumption and even oil-change timing.

The features make it clear that, like manufacturers such as BMW, Suzuki is serious about this market segment. It will be very interesting to see how the 250 V-Strom compares to the BMW G310 GS, the Honda 250 Rally and the Kawasaki 300 Versys.

Technically speaking: Suzuki V-Strom DL250

Engine: 248cc, inline 2-cylinder, single-overhead cam

Power: 18,4kW @ 8 000rpm / 23,4Nm @ 6 500rpm     

Gears: 6 speed, chain

Fuel tank: 17 litres

Seat height: 800mm

Tyres: 110/80/17 front, 140/70/17 rear

Brakes: single disks front and rear

Wet weight: 188kg

Price: R73 250