Background
The Powersports Dealer Expo is all about accessories, clothing, helmets and
anything else a dealer can sell -- other than motorcycles.
For the most part, the only motorcycles at the show are used
for displaying accessories. Manufacturer displays are very rare.
In 2007, Victory showed up with a nice display to show off their then-new
Vision (and we covered it here), and they haven't been back, but Suzuki does show up nearly every
year with a small display.
This year, as I was walking by their booth, the TU250
caught my eye. My mind was still in wayback mode after taking in
the
Fulmer Helmets retro display, and here I stumble upon this beautiful little
bike that looks for all the world like 1969 all over again.
Now that I think about it, what a perfect match: a TU250
and one of Fulmer's metalflake helmets with a bubble shield!
I normally do not like to generalize, but I have to say that
this time, the Japanese have finally got it. Maybe they've finally
been around long enough and have nothing left to prove to the world, so they
can indeed go back to the styling cues that made them what they are.
There's no shame in that whatsoever.
The TU250X, as it is called here, I think is a stunner. The finish on this
one was flawless, and the silver tube frame, the white piping on the
accessory seat and the little windshield are perfect.
I believe the
"X" signifies the upgrades with the seat and windshield, but I'm not
certain, as this model is not currently described on the Suzuki U.S.A.
website, but a Suzuki TU250X is sold in the UK.
Even the tires are right on the mark, along with the
instrumentation. But modern touches include a front disk brake,
5-speed transmission, fuel injection (!), a catalytic converter with O2
feedback and, of course, CDI ignition.
Just like Fulmer metalflake, the TU250 may not be for everyone,
but I think it's a beauty, and we need more bikes like this. Some new -- and old -- riders will be made very
happy with this motorcycle, and best of all, the list price is only $3,799.99.
Beautiful windscreen and seat, but I don't know who makes them; they could
be prototypes made
by Suzuki for the bike's introduction.
Zoomified Image of the Suzuki TU250 (Above) - Click, Zoom, Drag to zoom in!
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Suzuki TU250X Engine and Transmission
Fuel efficient four-stroke,
249cc single-cylinder, Air-cooled, SOHC engine "produces
strong, low-rpm torque perfect for the city rider", according to Suzuki.
Bore Stroke: 72.0mm X 61.2mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Lubrication: Wet sump
Muffler with catalytic converter and O2 feedback system for cleaner exhaust
emissions
SCEM-plated cylinder for increased cooling efficiency and reduced weight
Electric starting system
Electronic fuel injection for better fuel efficiency, strong throttle
response and easy starting
Digitally controlled CDI ignition system provides optimum ignition timing at
all engine speed
5-speed transmission with gear ratios suitable for a wide variety of riding
conditions
Strong diamond-shaped steel tube frame
3.17-gallon fuel tank and fuel-efficient engine provide excellent riding
range
Full lighting system and easy-to-read instrumentation including trip meter
Front disc brake with dual-piston caliper and rear drum brakes
Low 30.3-inch seat height and compact chassis are perfect for the beginning
rider
Chrome plated front and rear wheels, headlight case, speedometer cover, tail
lamp housing, front suspension outer tube and polished crank side case
produce beautiful and high quality look
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From "K.H." (7/09): "I just
purchased a Suzuki TU250 and can confirm that it is an
enormously fun ride.
I'm a new rider and started on a Kawasaki Vulcan 500,
something which many websites tout as perfect for
beginners. We'll, for me it ain't so.
The Vulcan is heavy (470 lbs. compared to 320-ish for
MSF bikes and 380 or so for a Suzuki S40); ponderous;
slow handling; rough; has an uneven delivery of power
over the revs; and has a less than communicative clutch.
A great bike, I'm sure, but not fun at all for a
beginner.
Rather than looking forward to riding, I'd look at it
and think, "Aw, nuts..."
The Suzuki TU250 has a 'standard' riding position which
I find far more natural than the 'cruiser' position;
having the pegs directly under you gives a better, more
natural balance. The clutch is sweet, the seat
comfortable, the power delivery even across the revs,
the shifter is crisp, the ride smooth, and the handling
responsive and easy to control.
The clean, retro styling in the icing on the cake.
I can not recommend the Suzuki highly enough. This
is one fun little bike and a joy to ride."
