2018 Suzuki GSX250R | First Look Review

The new 2018 Suzuki GSX250R combines the 248cc parallel twin from the GW250 with full bodywork inspired by Katana sportbikes.
The new 2018 Suzuki GSX250R combines the 248cc parallel twin from the GW250 with full bodywork inspired by Katana sportbikes.

In an effort to attract new and young riders into motorcycling, over the past several years manufacturers have introduced a wide variety of small-displacement bikes. Suzuki’s pint-sized lineup includes the GW250 sport standard (with styling inspired by the mighty but long gone B-King) and two retro-styled models, the VanVan 200 and the TU250X (the latter is not available in California, however).

Read our 2017 Suzuki GW250, VanVan 200 and TU250X first look review

Read our 2013 Suzuki GW250 first ride review

Compact size, a low seat height and a fuel-efficient engine should make the Suzuki GSX250R a great starter bike or commuter.
Compact size, a low seat height and a fuel-efficient engine should make the Suzuki GSX250R a great starter bike or commuter.

Suzuki has announced a fourth addition to its sub-250cc family, the 2018 GSX250R, which combines the chassis and liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, SOHC 248cc parallel twin from the GW250 with fully-faired bodywork inspired by the Katana line of sportbikes that were last seen in Suzuki’s lineup during the mid-2000s.

Suzuki says the GSX250R is an approachable sportbike with “responsive yet easy-to-control performance, exceptional fuel efficiency [76 mpg, claimed], nimble handling, plus a comfortable and roomy riding position.” It has a compact, 56.9-inch wheelbase, a 31.1-inch seat height with “roomy ergonomics for rider and passenger,” a slim fuel tank that holds 4 gallons (good for 250 miles of range, claimed) and a light, 392.4-pound curb weight (claimed).

The Suzuki GSX250R comes in Pearl Glacier Nebular White or Pearl Nebular Black.
The Suzuki GSX250R comes in Pearl Glacier Nebular White or Pearl Nebular Black.

The GSX250R has a 6-speed transmission, chain final drive, KYB suspension and single-disc Nissin brakes front and rear with petal-type rotors. It rolls on 17-inch, ten-spoke cast aluminum wheels shod with tires in 110/80 front and 140/55 sizes, and it features a reverse-lit LCD instrument panel, a bright halogen headlight and LED position lamps and taillight.

The 2018 Suzuki GSX250R will be available in Pearl Glacier Nebular White or Pearl Nebular Black, and in dealerships by April 2017. Price is TBD.

The Suzuki GSX250R's halogen headlight is flanked by LED position lights.
The Suzuki GSX250R’s halogen headlight is flanked by LED position lights.
Behind the Suzuki GSX250R's small windscreen is a reverse-lit LCD instrument panel.
Behind the Suzuki GSX250R’s small windscreen is a reverse-lit LCD instrument panel.
The Suzuki GSX250R has 17-inch wheels, KYB suspension and Nissin brakes.
The Suzuki GSX250R has 17-inch wheels, KYB suspension and Nissin brakes.
With a slender gas tank and a 31.1-inch seat height, the Suzuki GSX250R should fit a wider range of riders.
With a slender gas tank and a 31.1-inch seat height, the Suzuki GSX250R should fit a wider range of riders.

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