As the old saying goes, less is more. This is certainly the case with power. Especially for those learning how to do it. Every time I get onto a smaller capacity bike, I don’ t have any regrets or any lingering thoughts about not having enough grip or losing my license. A lot of experience and enjoyment gets missed when you spend too long worrying about keeping both wheels on the road. The Suzuki V-Strom as we know it has been a staple in the New Zealand Adventure bike scene for decades now. It is well known for versatility and reliability( as many of you reading this possibly know). Absolutely anyone could buy one of these and feel happy knowing it’ s going to work, and do everything you need it to. Previously fitted with 650 and 1000 V-twins, recently the new 800 Parallel twin, it’ s quite a difference having a 250 Single. First off- for its very affordable price, it’ s finished and built quite nicely. I got the bike in the stunning Sonoma Red, which looks superb in the sunlight. Seat height relative to handlebar position is nice and comfortable when sitting and when standing it still works quite well. This bike was fitted with bridgestone AX41 tyres, much better suited for gravel and offroad use over the OEM fitment ones. I like the modern styling that Suzuki gives the front end of its bikes. The modern retro mixed with rally stands out and is quite an improvement over the previous generations. The dashboard is a good old LCD. It may not be the brightest screen but it’ s clear and shows you all you need to know. The 249cc motor runs really well, the fuelling system is really clean and responsive- much better than a lot of the learner market, Euro emissions standards can’ t stifle this one. The initial run around town showed me a lot of its potential from the very start. A nice add-on that Suzuki gave me with this bike was the genuine accessory tank bag. Nice
+ Surprisingly capable; great value; good warranty