Suzuki has showcased a range of concept and production motorcycles at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show that will soon make its way to the Indian market. A very specific model we are talking about is the Suzuki GSR250S. The GSR250S has been derived from the Suzuki GW250 also known as the Inazuma in some markets; and receives half fairing as opposed to the naked Inazuma. The bike first went on sale in 2012 in Japan and fits the bill for Suzuki to launch it in India in the ever so growing 250cc segment.
Visually the 2014 Suzuki GSR250S sports a half faired styling that allows excellent wind protection thanks to the long wind screen in front. The new GSR250S also has the handle bars raised and moved closer to the rider to improve riding comfort. The focus is more on practicality and comfort with the seating position better equipped for touring purposes, while the dual-seat itself is wide and long. The GSR250R has a commuter friendly attitude but definitely carries street presence with its long wheelbase and the twin exhausts add to the big bike feel. The design language is very restrained with softer lines, but it’s something you can live with everyday.
In terms of mechanicals, the 2014 Suzuki GSR250S carries a 248cc parallel-twin engine that puts out 24 PS of power at 8500 RPM along with 22 Nm of torque. It weighs in a heavy 186 kgs though, so do not expect it do wonders in outright acceleration. The motorcycle will be best for cruising, expect linear power delivery throughout the rev range. Fuel economy is expected to be in the 30-35 km/l range. The speedometer, trip meter and fuel gauge are displayed on a digital display, along with an analogue rev counter. Stopping power comes from disc brakes at the front and rear.
Suzuki Motorcycles haven’t been in good shape with their bikes in India. Even though their scooters are doing decent numbers in the commuter segment, and their super bikes have a huge cult following; the bikes in the commuter segment haven’t been able to cash in on the image. Recent reports suggested that the Inazuma was being considered for an Indian launch, but there has been no development on that front.
The GSR250S might just be what Suzuki needs to take on the current segment leader, the Honda CBR250R in the touring space. If they are able to price it aggressively within the Rs. 1.5 lakh mark, Suzuki might just have a winner in its hands. We will be keeping a close watch on the development of the Suzuki GSR250S for India. Surprise us Suzuki at the 2014 Auto Expo.
