With its 2015 GW250Z, Suzuki->ke371 promises, "big bike style, small bike price." Unfortunately, what they don't say is that it's also small bike performance. Is that a bad thing? Maybe not. It all depends on what you're looking for. The GW250Z has that fairing-less, almost naked-bike style that might appeal to your pragmatic side. If you're looking for a starter bike that you know you'll eventually outgrow or if you want a lightweight bike for short commutes, this could be your ticket.

Continue reading for my review of the Suzuki GW250Z.

2015 Suzuki GW250Z

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 Suzuki GW250Z
  • Engine/Motor: 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled

Design

Plain with a hint of sporty describes the style of the GW250Z, though I can't really say I'm feeling that front fender. New riders will appreciate the adjustable engine rpm indicator. In normal mode, the indicator lights illuminates at the best time to upshift and in economy mode, the light illuminates at the best time to upshift for better fuel economy. That's a plus when using the GW250 for your commute. The instrumentation is quite adequate. The multi-function displays include a large analog tachometer with convenient digital gear position indicator, a digital LCD speedometer, odometer, twin trip meter, clock and fuel gauge readouts. You also have a maintenance interval indicator.

Chassis

Front suspension on the semi double-cradle chassis is telescopic hydraulic forks with coil springs. In the rear, you have a swingarm with a spring-over shock tucked up under the seat that'll smooth the bumps in the road. Nothing fancy here -- a pretty typical set-up -- but on a 250 cc bike it does the job. It does have a seven-way adjustable spring preload on the rear. I think that's worth mentioning.

Drivetrain

The GW250Z comes with an in-line, 248 cc, four-stroke engine. The long-stroke of this two-banger coupled with the six-speed transmission gives good low-to-mid rpm performance, and a coupling-type balancer shaft reduces vibration for a more comfortable ride. That means, hopefully, you won't vibrate your hands and butt into numbness on your commute.

Pricing

MSRP on the GW250Z is $4,099 and it comes in two-tone Candy Cardinal Red and Pearl Nebular Black. If you want a little more snazziness, opt for the GW250F, which is a full-fairing version of the GW250 that comes in Pearl Nebular Black. In addition to full-fairing bodywork, the GW250F -- MSRP $4,499 -- features a windscreen and a headlight housing.

He Said

My husband and fellow writer, TJ Hinton, says, "Yeah, it's an entry-level bike for an entry-level price. As far as beginner bikes go, a 250 is adequate to get you out there in the wind without fear of being intimidated or overpowered by the engine. Plus the engine size and overall value of the bike is sure to score you some cheap rates when you go to insure it."

She Said

"I'm not terribly impressed, but it is an entry-level bike, and with some "big bike" instrumentation, it's really not a bad deal. I can't help but feel that someone who buys this and rides it for a while will quickly outgrow it. It isn't a bad price for the 250 cc market, but for a few hundred more, I might look at a 2015 Yamaha YZF R3 that comes with a short-stroke 321 cc engine."

Specifications

Drivetrain:

Engine:

four-stroke, two-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC

Displacement:

248 cc

Fuel System:

Electronic fuel injection

Ignition:

Electronic ignition (transistorized)

Starter:

Electric

Transmission:

six-speed constant mesh

Final Drive:

Chain

Chassis:

Suspension Front:

Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped

Suspension Rear:

Swingarm, coil spring, oil damped

Brakes Front:

Disc

Brakes Rear:

Disc

Wheels, Front & Rear:

17-inch aluminum, three-spoke

Tires Front:

110/80Z-17 M/C 57H, tubeless

Tires Rear:

140/70Z-17 M/C 66H, tubeless

Dimensions:

Overall Length:

84.4 inches

Overall Width:

29.9 inches

Wheelbase:

56.3 inches

Ground Clearance:

6.5 inches

Seat Height:

30.7 inches

Curb Weight:

403.4 pounds

Details:

Fuel Tank Capacity:

3.5 gallons)

Color:

Candy Cardinal Red / Pearl Nebular Black

Warranty:

12 month unlimited mileage limited warranty

Price:

$4,099