Suzuki has unveiled a slew of small-capacity motorcycles at the 2016 EICMA Show in Italy, the most interesting among which are the new V-Strom 250 and the GSX-R250R. Evolved from the Inazuma GW250 platform, these bikes will go on sale in Europe early next year.
The GSX-R250R gets racy design cues that make it look like a miniature version of the Suzuki GSX-R1000 superbike. However, Suzuki has been clear that the GSX-R250R is more of a ‘commuter’ than a sportsbike. Nevertheless, it does get an aerodynamic fairing, clip-on handlebars and rearset footpegs to align it with its GSX-R brethren.
Though the GSX-R250R and V-Strom 250 are based on similar platform, the chassis on the latter has strengthened to improve load bearing, and it also comes with mounts to accommodate the optional hard case panniers. It gets an aluminium rack at the rear with a top case mount as well. Suzuki claims an efficiency of 32.5kmpl for the V-Strom 250, which should give it a range of over 450km. The windscreen, wide handlebars and the spacious seat further boost its touring capabilities.
Both the V-Strom 250 and the GSX-R250 share the same 248cc parallel-twin delivering 24.7bhp and 23.4Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed transmission. Both the bikes ride on conventional telescopic front fork and a rear monoshock. ABS is offered as an optional extra.
While we would love to see the GSX-R250R on Indian roads, it seems unlikely that Suzuki would risk launching it here anytime soon. The V-Strom 250 on the other hand seems like a more likely proposition, given that the segment is still in its nascent stages. Either way, Suzuki will have to work out a smart pricing strategy before they launch it in India.
