If you’re looking for a practical, affordable, and beginner-friendly motorcycle with just enough flair to make daily commutes enjoyable, the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma—also known as the GSR250 in some markets—might just be your perfect ride. This buyer’s guide dives deep into everything you need to know before purchasing the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250.
Introduction to the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250
Released in 2012, the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma (or GSR250 in certain countries like Japan and Australia) marked Suzuki’s serious entry into the lightweight naked commuter bike segment. With sharp styling inspired by the larger B-King and GSX-R series, the Inazuma offered a mix of reliability, comfort, and surprising build quality at an economical price point.
This 250cc motorcycle was primarily aimed at beginners and urban riders looking for a reliable and efficient ride without sacrificing style.
Key Specifications
Let’s start by reviewing some of the most important specs of the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250:
Engine: 248cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC
Power Output: ~24 horsepower at 8,500 rpm
Torque: ~22 Nm at 6,500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Fuel Capacity: 13.3 liters
Weight: Approximately 183 kg (wet)
Seat Height: 780 mm
Fuel Economy: Around 85 mpg (36 km/L)
The GW250 isn’t the most powerful in its class, but its twin-cylinder engine provides smooth acceleration and better balance compared to single-cylinder competitors.
Engine Performance and Ride Quality
Though it might not light up the track, the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma shines when it comes to usability and smoothness. The 248cc engine delivers modest but steady power that's well-suited for city riding and light highway cruising.
The 6-speed transmission shifts smoothly and helps stretch fuel economy during longer rides. For a beginner, the linear power delivery and lack of abrupt torque make it forgiving and easy to handle.
Additionally, the dual-exhaust setup and counterbalanced engine reduce vibrations significantly, making the ride far more comfortable than many other bikes in the same category.
Comfort and Ergonomics
One of the standout features of the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250 is its rider-focused ergonomics. The upright seating position, wide handlebars, and well-padded seat make it ideal for longer commutes or even short weekend getaways.
With a low seat height of just 780 mm, it’s also accessible to shorter riders or new motorcyclists still building confidence with bike control at stops.
The instrument cluster is basic but well-designed, featuring an analog tachometer and digital speedometer, along with useful indicators like gear position, fuel level, and maintenance reminders.
Handling and Suspension
The GW250’s handling is neutral and confidence-inspiring. It’s equipped with 37mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks that offer a good balance between comfort and responsiveness. While it won’t handle aggressive cornering like a sportbike, it feels composed and predictable in traffic and moderate-speed turns.
The 140-section rear tire also gives it a more planted feel compared to other entry-level bikes with narrower tires.
Braking and Safety
Braking on the GW250 is handled by a single 290mm disc up front and a 240mm disc at the rear. Although the setup doesn’t include ABS in most versions, the braking performance is reliable for its weight and power class.
For cautious riders or beginners, this setup is more than adequate in urban environments. However, if you're considering frequent high-speed highway use, you might desire stronger braking confidence, particularly in wet conditions.
Maintenance and Reliability
Suzuki has long been known for dependable engineering, and the GW250 Inazuma is no exception. Owners often report excellent reliability with only routine maintenance required. Common tasks like oil changes, chain tensioning, and brake pad replacement are easy for DIY mechanics or inexpensive at service centers.
Thanks to its widespread production and global reach, spare parts are readily available and affordable. Maintenance intervals are also generous, with valve clearance checks not required as frequently as on high-performance bikes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Smooth and reliable engine
Great fuel economy
Comfortable ergonomics for daily riding
User-friendly for beginners
Affordable purchase price and running cost
Cons
Modest power output
No ABS in many versions
Slightly heavy for a 250cc bike
Conservative styling for some tastes
Market Availability and Pricing
As the model is no longer in production, the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250 is only available on the used market. Prices can vary depending on mileage, condition, and region but typically range between $1,800 and $3,000 USD.
Given the bike’s low maintenance needs and reliable nature, even higher-mileage models can still represent excellent value if they’ve been well-maintained.
Modding and Customization
While not a primary choice for the modding crowd, the GW250 does have a small but dedicated aftermarket scene. Riders often upgrade the exhaust for a more throaty sound, swap out the stock seat for extra comfort, or install crash bars and luggage racks to enhance practicality.
Its simple design makes it a decent platform for basic personalization and touring modifications.
Who Should Buy the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma?
This bike is best suited for:
Beginners learning the ropes
Commuters wanting fuel economy and comfort
Riders transitioning from a 125cc to a larger bike
Budget-conscious buyers needing a reliable second-hand motorcycle
The Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250 won’t thrill performance junkies, but it checks almost every box for practicality, ease of use, and affordability.
Conclusion
In summary, the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250 offers an ideal blend of usability, reliability, and economy. Though it lacks the excitement of a full-fledged sportbike, it’s an incredibly capable commuter and learning tool for new riders.
With its smooth twin-cylinder engine, comfortable ergonomics, and low running costs, it’s easy to see why the Suzuki GW250 Inazuma / GSR250 remains a favorite in the used motorcycle market. Whether you’re just getting into riding or looking for a dependable workhorse, this bike is certainly worth your consideration.