Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
LITTLE GIXXER’S A HIT PACKAGE
SUZUKI’S GSX-R1000 has been an iconic sportsbike since it first burst on to the scene in 2001. The Gixxer, as it is fondly known, was the bike that finally surpassed Yamaha’s previously class-leading YZF-R1 and it has maintained a loyal, enthusiastic following ever since.
So it is no surprise Suzuki should make the most of that heritage and produce smaller-capacity machines which share the look and feel of their big brother.
The firm recently launched a well-received GSX-R125 to sit alongside the GSX-250R which came out earlier this year, and it’s the latter I am looking at here.
First impressions are good, as it bears a very close resemblance to the thousand. The GP version is an even closer relative as it shares the same livery.
A large single LED headlight nestles in the full fairing and there’s a cut-down flyscreen.
The lines are pure nose-down, tail-up sportsbike, from that aggressive front end through to the raised pillion seat and LED rear light.
Climb on board, though, and you realise that the short, clip-on bars are actually quite tall, which, combined with a more relaxed placement of the rear-set foot pegs, gives a fairly upright riding position.
The cockpit features a reverse-lit LCD instrument panel which is very easy to read, with a large digital speedo, rev counter across the top and a gear indicator.
Don’t expect power modes or traction control though, although you do get ABS brakes as standard.
The engine was previously used in the GW250 and is a 248cc parallel twin, which produces 25bhp and 17lb/ft. That puts it at the lower end of performance levels relative to bikes in this class.
The frame, too, is taken from the GW250, as are the KYB conventional forks and the tucked-away rear suspension, which is adjustable for spring preload. Brakes are by Bosch and feature single discs front and rear. The adjustable front brake lever is a nice touch.
Out on the road the motor has a decent amount of low and mid-range torque, with the revs climbing steeply to around 9,000rpm at 70mph.
It’s compact and easily manageable, and surprisingly nippy through the bends.
In conclusion, this is a great-looking bike, the build and finish quality is excellent, and it’s easy and comfortable to ride.
Being kind about the performance, I’d say if Suzuki’s aim was to not put off newer riders with excessive power, it has certainly achieved that.
It’s a rider-friendly commuter/all-rounder that just looks a bit more sporty than it actually is.
But maybe that’s no bad thing. Suzuki GSX-250R
Engine: 248cc parallel twin
Power: 25bhp
Torque: 17 lb ft
Colours: Black
Price: £4,299
(GP: £4,399)