New Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 vs Used KTM RC 390: Which One To Buy

We stack up Suzuki’s new 250cc motorcycle against a used KTM RC 390 to find out which one offers more bang for the buck

After working for years, Suzuki has launched the Gixxer SF 250 in India. Priced at Rs 1.7 lakh (ex-showroom), it sits right in the middle of the Honda CBR250R and the Yamaha Fazer-25. However, if the 250cc segment doesn’t cut it for you, then you could have a sub-400cc motorcycle at about the same price. No, there’s no new fully-faired motorcycle launched at that price. Instead, we are talking about getting a used RC 390. In the second-hand market, a used RC 390 (2017 model) can be found on sale from Rs 1.45 lakh to Rs 1.6 lakh! So the question here is whether you should go for the all-new Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 or opt for the KTM RC 390 and save yourself some cash. Here’s a closer look at both motorcycles to help you make the right choice.

Let’s start with the heart of the matter, the engine. The 249cc single-cylinder engine seen in the Gixxer SF 250 is an all-new unit developed specifically for India. This engine puts out 26.5PS and 22.6Nm of torque. In comparison, the RC 390 is powered by a 373.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor that makes 43.5PS and 35Nm of peak torque. That’s an advantage of 17PS and 12.4Nm over the Japanese 250. However, the KTM is like a ferocious animal off the line and the power delivery might be a little too much to handle for novice riders. The Gixxer SF 250, on the other hand, is a more mature and easy-going alternative. Additionally, the RC 390 has sportier ergonomics and an aggressive riding position whereas the Gixxer SF 250 offers a pretty upright riding position.  

Both motorcycles feature a 6-speed transmission, but where the RC 390 gets a slipper clutch, the Gixxer SF 250 is not equipped with this feature. So, if you plan to hit the race track on the weekend, the RC 390 would be the better choice. Although the RC 390 is 2.5kg heavier than the Gixxer SF 250, it is more powerful than the latter, which in turn gives it a better power-to-weight ratio. When it comes to suspension setup, the RC 390 continues to have an edge over the Suzuki. Where the KTM comes with a WP-designed upside-down fork at the front, the Gixxer SF 250 features a conventional telescopic fork. Thankfully, both the motorcycles are equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard.

Being a brand new product, the Gixxer SF 250 gets LED lights at the front and rear. The KTM RC 390 gets halogen projector headlamps. That said, the KTM’s projectors provide really great illumination in the dark. We haven’t tested the Gixxer SF 250’s headlights on the road yet, so whether they’re better or not remains to be seen. Although both motorcycles come with a fully digital instrument cluster, it’s the Gixxer’s LCD display which has an edge over the KTM in terms of legibility.

Being a used model, the RC 390 could have covered some serious miles and you might have to shell out extra for the spare parts. KTMs, especially the 390, are high-strung motorcycles known for wearing some of their parts out a little quickly. Also, 390s are more likely to have been ridden hard, so that’s something you need to consider as well. So while making your final decision you need to check for any damages and whether the insurance is up to date. However, you won’t have the same issues if you’re buying a brand new Suzuki Gixxer SF 250.

So, back to our original question, then. Should you go for a used KTM RC 390 or a new Gixxer SF 250? Well, if you want a motorcycle that offers out-and-out performance, then the RC 390 is the one for you. It is more powerful and more exciting to ride than the Gixxer SF 250, and getting one used is cheaper as well. However, the Gixxer SF 250 isn’t without its merits. For those who want to spend more time in the urban environment, or spending long hours in the saddle on the highway, this new Suzuki might just suit you better.