Suzuki Inazuma 250 vs Suzuki V-Strom SX

We are the world’s largest motorcycle market, but in those numbers hides a disappointing fact: most of the two-wheelers that go on sale are clones of each other. Of course, this is driven by the market’s need, and the market is driven by need alone. We want fuel efficient motorcycles that are inexpensive, both to buy and run, can carry two hundred-kilo riders, and maybe a sack of potatoes or five milk cans, depending on the requirement. Motorcycling as a leisure activity has not really entered the mass-market’s consciousness, so when a motorcycle like the Inazuma is launched, the first question that comes to mind isn’t “Is this motorcycle ready for India?” but instead, “Is India ready for this motorcycle?”  

The end of 2022 and early 2023 was about going long distances, primarily because I had the Suzuki V-Strom and this luggage from Rynox – the Navigator tail bag. I’ve been a regular user of Rynox luggage for many years now.

The V-Strom SX is the second motorcycle that has crossed 10,000km during my long-term use. The first one was the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, and it took me almost a year with this cruiser. But the V-Strom SX has taken less than six months.

My love for long-distance riding has grown multi-folds over the last few years. This is primarily due to two reasons – the number of new bikes launched in the segment and secondly, the roads have gotten better in terms of tarmac quality and safety.