Suzuki V-Strom SX 250: Same Engine, Different Personality

A lowdown on Suzuki’s 250cc mill that powers a naked, a supersport and an ADV offering

Suzuki has stepped into the highly competitive entry-level ADV segment in India with the new V-Strom 250 SX. But unlike the international model that used a liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, the Indian bike uses the oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that we have seen on the Gixxer 250 twins in India. Here’s how this engine caters to a naked, supersport and an ADV.

Suzuki Gixxer 250

The 249cc single-cylinder engine delivers 26.5PS and 22.2Nm and even though it is a peppy engine it is highly tractable as well, something you’d expect from a naked. Coupled with the fairly light kerb weight of 156kg, this is one exciting motorcycle. So, if you are looking for a quarter-litre naked that can handle the twisties and the urban traffic with ease, the Gixxer is your option.

Suzuki Gixxer SF 250

While the engine is tractable and friendly, it delivers power from pretty much any rpm. This translates to easy overtakes and it also has a decent top speed of 150kmph. The engine coupled with the radial tyres and aptly tuned suspension makes it an exciting motorcycle for the twisties too. So, if you are looking for a sporty motorcycle which can handle everyday duties too, the Gixxer SF 250 is perfect for you.

Suzuki V-Strom SX

The Japanese bikemaker hasn’t fiddled with the engine tuning, so it carries on with its friendliness in low rpms, and its top-end delivery, both of which one would expect from a tourer. But for this bike, Suzuki has stepped it up by giving 120mm suspension travel at the front, and a 19/17-inch wheel setup with dual-purpose tyres. It is also the only bike amongst its siblings to flaunt turn-by-turn navigation. So if you wanted an ADV-styled highway muncher, the V-Strom SX does make sense but keep in mind, it doesn’t like to get its shoes very dirty.