KIWI RIDER 04 2020 VOL2 | Page 80

ROAD NEWS SUZUKI NZ LAUNCHES NEW COMMUTER CONTENDER F ollowing the popularity of Suzuki’s GSX150F, the commuter category is a strong part of Suzuki New Zealand’s success. While it’s no secret that the biggest segment in the New Zealand motorcycle market by sales volumes is the light sport/commuter category, Suzuki has seen an incredible amount of success here recently with the affordable GSX150 range. With the new ABS laws soon to see the 150 leave our shores, new for 2020, and sure to shake up the market further, is the recently launched new GSX250R model range. Produced in both fully faired and naked versions, the new Suzukis are learner legal, yet are full-size motorcycles capable of both open road and urban duties. Thanks in part to the huge success of the smaller GSX150F line, Suzuki continues to be the number 80 KIWI RIDER one selling road bike brand in New Zealand. The launch of the new GSX250R seems certain to help the brand maintain that position, and pricing for the new GSX250R is set at a very attainable $4799 and $4999 for the naked and faired versions respectively. A price point Suzuki says is “unbeatable” for value. The design of the new Gixxer takes styling cues from Suzuki’s legendary stable of cult motorcycles such as the GSX-R series, as well as the high-speed Hayabusa. Power comes from a single-cylinder 250cc engine that apparently draws from Suzuki’s MotoGP experience. It incorporates SOCS (Suzuki Oil Cooling System), combining weight reduction and friction reduction technologies to provide high output, compactness, low fuel consumption, high durability and ease of maintenance.