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Test Ride Review Of The Suzuki Inazuma 250 - By Ren Withnell
I really ought to know better. I ought to know better than to go test riding motorcycles. You see the problem is that I'm not a professional motorcycle tester nor am I a saddle weary motorcycle journalist. So whenever I step onto a new bike there is a very big risk I might end up falling in love.
But when the machine in question is just the humble Inazuma 250 then there really is little chance of that. For starters I think it's a rather ugly duckling. Silly B-King style shoulder pads at the front end, spindly little exhaust pipes going into two massive silencers, a headlight that looks like cyclops with a serious frown and the back end of a rusty barge. That's how I see it. My friends with me on the day however mostly agree that for a 250 it's rather a chunky good looking machine! You can't account for taste but I am outvoted by 4 to 1, so I guess it's not that ugly.
To me it looks like Cyclops with a frown...others seem to disagree...
I've ridden to the test on my (once would have been) 95bhp Fazer mark one. The 24 point something BHP Inazuma is going to feel very slow. I am however OK with this because I usually ride a CBF 125 and the 250 has more than double the power of that. This being the Kawasaki launch day for some new models I could have ridden the Versys 1000, Ninja 636, W800 and other exotica but I'm more interested in the claimed 85mpg of the 250. I want to know if this could be a suitable touring machine, economical but with a little more pulling power than a 125.
So I step onto the bike. Everything feels fine. It's bigger than the 125 but smaller than the Fazer, makes sense. I prod the starter, nothing, it's a Suzuki so I need to pull the light, easy to find clutch and the 'Zuma starts with the modern, polite, smooth and barely audible pulse of the modern motorcycle. No vibes, in fact it's hard to know if it's running as other bikes around me start up too.
Within the first 10 metres I feel right at home. Everything is exactly where it should be for a 5 foot 8 pretending to be a 5 foot 9 bloke. There's the shifter, there's the brakes, there's the bars, there's the pegs everything is set up precisely where I'd want it to be. I'm a little higher than the Fazer and further forward over the front wheel. I like that, I like to feel on top of the front end as that's the bit that matters, the back end can do what it likes. There's no "not used to this bike" wobbles just a solid firm footing on the road. These tyres only have 8 miles on them so they'll still be slippery yet on this wet rainy day I feel more confident than I did on the Fazer.
It's definitely a bike...just a plain ordinary bike...but is it any good?
Round a tight roundabout, no problem, now uphill, she'll struggle here as it's a heavy bike, 183 kilos, and low powered. It's hard to describe this bit. It definitely is NOT going to win any races or even shock a new rider just off a 125 yet the 250 engine firmly, confidently and comfortably pulls me up the hill. There's no grunty snap like a 650 single can provide and no crescendo like a 600 four builds up to. Just a steady acceleration with a marginal build of power as the revs rise above 6 and 7k. It's all very tame with a satisfying sensation that gathers the speed you require in a timely manner.
More wet roundabouts. I'm starting to understand this machine now. It's not an exciting supermodel, stunning and impressive but likely to throw a tantrum. Nor is it the town slag, a good ride but likely to give you a disease. It's that steady, reliable, well grounded and trustworthy girl that will always be there for you if you treat her right. I don't feel like I can throw the Inazuma into the bends with abandon but as long as I treat her gently she responds with a solid handling that doesn't feel hairy or lairy or scary. I repeat - I like the way I feel on top of the front wheel, it's mine and I'm controlling it.
Finally we hit the motorway. I'm part of a test ride group and the leader takes us all up to 70mph. I am concerned as this bike now has 14 miles on the clock and it's running in at 8,500 rpm. The redline is 10,500 rpm and I'm sure the manual would recommend 6,000 for the first 500 miles at most. No worries, it's not my bike and I'm merely following the shop's demonstration leader. Considering this bike is still tight out the crate I am very impressed with is how free-revving the engine is. At 70 the revs are high yet I feel there is more to come. I'm not struggling to keep up at all even into a headwind. A very brief nip up to an indicated 80 and I could have done more. Very impressive.
This however is not a motorway blaster. There's no fairing and the over-the-front sit up and beg natural riding position means I'm catching a lot of wind. It's not intolerable but it would be tiresome. The motor is revving far higher than I would like, 8,500 can't be good for any sustained length of time. The handling however is fine, the weight makes for no shakes, no buffeting around the lane from the wind and tracking a straight line is done without thought. The 125 can sometimes be difficult to keep online even at 60.
This is the bit the rider sees, which isn't so bad at all. Very very handy gear indicator when it's running.
I wish I could slow down to the 60mph that I normally cruise at, even on my 140 mph Fazer. I estimate this would mean revs of 7 to 7.5k and less wind blast. I can't however as I'm in the group. What I am not doing though is holding the group up, that might be important to a young rider starting out with more experienced friends. 250 motors will never really be suitable for high speeds on the motorway, but if I wanted to ride 300 miles at 60 on the 'Zuma I reckon that would be just fine.
A final leg through the town shows where this bike excels. Riding commuter style at legal speeds the 250 is perfection. The gearbox is clickity click sharp. The clutch is light. The handling is light, maneuverable and confident. My mirrors are...well...average but clear. The extra power over the 125 is handy but not scary. The extra weight over a 125 seems barely noticeable. She feels rock solid, reliable, well fuelled and I know I'm going to get there. Even a massive diesel spill around a domestic estate causes me no shivers or shakes. I even put the gf on the back and head out on my own for a ride around town. I'll let her add her own report but 2-up I can hardly tell the difference, although the gf only weighs 8 stone fully kitted up.
Back at the shop I have a problem. I am rather endeared to this bike, rather a lot. You see I'm no longer too bothered about fast or powerful. I'm more concerned with fuel economy, comfort, ease of riding and feeling at home on a bike. Well the 250 is economical, comfortable, easy to ride and right from the very start I immediately felt at home. This ugly (only to me) little duckling is a most charming, friendly and usable bike.
Would I buy one? Hell yeah. If you have to have a 250 for insurance, licence or cost reasons there's the CBR 250 and 300 Ninja options for the sporty type and I'm sure they're faster, more exciting and certainly more stylish. If you've got over yourself and your ego then the Inazuma is a good piece of kit. Will I buy one? Maybe, just maybe. I'm yet to see fuel consumption reports by REAL people not journalists who'll ride it like Rossi and get 50 mpg. I'll see what genuine users get.
I've yet to have a go on the gorgeous CB 500 X and the fuel consumption on that could be quite good, estimating maybe 80 to 90 mpg. And then there's the perpetual fly in the ointment, the NC 700's from Honda. Users who ride carefully, as I do, report up to 90mpg. The NC's large size and mass means it will taking a camping trip load well but it stands against it in running costs (tyres, chains etc) and it's ease of use. I will keep the super easy to use and super friendly Inazuma 250 in the picture. It is a very well sorted bike.
Reader's Comments
Black Inazuma said :-
Good article on the Inazuma! I'm not sure about the NC700 with its 6500rpm rev limiter but the CB500F, definitely a good, flexible bike for touring. I've ridden my Inazuma at motorway speeds all day - it's not a 125 - and with the weight of 183kg it doesn't feel blown around by lorries as might the Yamaha YBR250. In France on the autoroute, you can crusie Inazumas at 80mph all day, albeit, not too economically. At that speed, of course, the revs are around 10000rpm and I personally think, at least for good fuel consumption, that 70mph is probably ideal and still fast enough to cover long distances. The fuel consumption can go down to 65mpg if you are on full throttle accelerating most of the time but if you reel back a bit and take it calmer then 85mpg is quite easy to achieve. My advice is that if you will be travelling often with a pillion then buy the Honda CB500F (assuming that you have the extra £1000) or if, like me, you're content to get around cities and tour countries at legal speeds (or slower), go for the Inazuma.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
b69201 said :-
Very usefull....I was thinking about buying one of these but since I currently ride Kawasaki er5 with 500cc I thught it might be to weak. Now, I see that this could be a nice solution for an 40+ years driver who is tired of big and middle size bikes that only feed ego and gas exporters. What do you think, could this bike be enough in 25 miles radius, heavy city traffic, no highways and a 55kg "heavy" pillion behind from time to time? People tell me...you will get borred in 15 minutes...but I am borred anyway so I need transportation...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
b69201, odd moniker but I'm sure it means something to you!
If you're riding a 25 mile radius then the Inazuma will be practically perfect.
The only question is, as you say, your ego. On those rare pieces of remaining countryside without strict limits you're mates will be off ahead, no doubts about that. But that will not mean you are having LESS fun but just as much fun at a slower pace.
As for two-up again I found the bike fine. 55kg is light but I'd have no worries putting my 80kg lad on the back. You have to expect a slight drop in performance but the 'Zuma will do it and do it happily.
A 125 will do everything a 600 will do from a practical point of view. The only difference is that it does it slower. If you're happy with that then a 250 may be an ideal compromise.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Andy said :-
I am getting 165 miles per tank (about £13) on average. Harrogate to Leeds, A roads and urban city riding. If I had more power I wouldn't get the opportunity to use it so its ideal for me. If you do any motorway riding you will need a screen. New screened model out soon, but its not pretty!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
jifmoli said :-
Good review, cheers. Looking to replace my Suzuki Volty. The bigger bike (but not engine-wise) fits the bill for my large frame, age and limited riding experience. Got me convinced.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
mr c.thorpe said :-
i have just orderd one but never ridden one yet. your test report has cheered me up as i considerd buying the honda cbr 250 at one stage.i also own a fazer 600 but as i am getting on in years i find it a bit heavy when parking hence the down size still keeping the fazer tho. interesting artical cant wait to give it a go.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
mr a.kobi said :-
Very good review,gave me alittle push for tomarrow.iam going to the agency,hoping for traid my vfr750 93 for baby inazuma.iam not looking for super fast power machine...just riding the winds of change;) i will do urban city riding and in the weekend longer jorney. depending on Reliability with my girl asaddle bags and smile.wish me luck...i will update soon..take care.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
maz said :-
good review.....
very true in saying if u hv overcum your ego n showmanship
, this is d bike to hav....
reliable, simple, efficient, user n pocket friendly.....
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
struttie said :-
my best bike in over 50 years 0n the road. Great stability, economy and comfort. My only alteration was to add mirror extenders.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
said :-
Great bike had a Honda hornet 600 down sized to the inazuma 250 happy chap would highly recommend one .Chris.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Chris said :-
Give one ago ,put some fun back into motorcycling does what it,s meant to do , job sorted.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Luca said :-
I have commuted and toured with the 250 for a year now. I just love this bike. Comfortable, great gearbox and soft clutch, good riding position and handling, cheap to buy and to run, perfect in town, looks a lot more expensive than 2990 quid! Just added a centre stand and carrier rack.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Arthur U. said :-
Like you, I cant bring myself to like the styling. Here in New Zealand they are very popular. No good me buying a bike, the name of which I cant pronounce.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
moss said :-
bought new inazuma Thursday felt a good solid bike.today noticed rear brake light didn't work when using front brake.when I had a good look noticed was no wiring connected to the treminals at front brake.i prefer to use front brake and was lucky no rear ended me on the way home while scrubbing the tyres in on the way home.technically this bike was unroad wothy when registered on thurs.
has any one else had a problem like this usually Suzuki have been good on quality control?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
cbf-man said :-
In the Holy land... Where people frown over bikes with less tham 100bhp... I made a move. I got an old CBF 250 (single - air cooled - six speed), and toyed with it a bit to put it back in the fun part of my life.
At a bike-stop, a kid half my age, grinned and remarked: "Hey old timer - whats with two wheeled compressor?" I smiled back at the cub and his R-6... "Hey kido - Had just as much fun as you - without spending a fortune - And besides, I'd rather cover 150 miles a day than an hour. Try it - you might live to be my age". beeing a biker is a thing that resides between your ears - not your legs. And that is where the Ino-Zuki (as my CBF) are aimed.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi cbf-man. Having tested the most excellent Inazuma but being far too tight to actually spend my own money I now own a CBF 250 as well. Great thing to ride but mine is not without it's issues. Look around this site I've put a few things on about it.
The advantage of getting old is that you learn to ride the bike you want to ride and not the bike your ego and your peers tell you to ride. Good isn't it!
www.bikesandtravels.com/biker.aspx?ride=570...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Peter said :-
Riding a XVS650 cruiser. Despite the good looks it is a most uncomfortable bike to ride. I also have a motor scooter which is much more fun to ride. Thinking about selling both and buying a bike that will cover both bases. The Inazuma (why the silly name) might be the one. Will test ride one soon.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Peter. I'd have thought the cruiser would have been quite comfortable but we are all made differently so what suits one won't suit the other. The Inazuma I found to be fine but riding one for yourself is the best idea. It's a sham most shops won't let you take it for a six hour ride to see if it's really comfortable though!
Hope you like it.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Roy said :-
I'm thinking about buying one as my first big bike after passing my test. I currently commute on a Yamaha YBR 125 which is an excellent bike to own and run. Very cheap.
Most of my mates are dead against me getting a 250cc a saying it's no good, low power, blah blah blah. Funny though as they own big bikes themselves R1, Bandit, R6 yet they only use them when It's dry! They just don't get it. I want a fun bike that's cheap to insure etc. so I think the Inazuma might be the one.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Roy. I'm not "Anti-Big-Bike", if you want a big fast motorcycle then go for it! But you're right, a bigger bike will likely cost more to run.
It depends on your definition of fun. If you MUST keep up with your mates and you MUST look the part then go big. If you love to ride, love to go to great places and love the feeling of being on a motorcycle then it won't matter if you're on a 125 , 250, 500 or 1000.
The Inazuma is a properly sorted machine and Suzuki have been making bikes long enough now to get it right. The pennies you'll save over an R1 or GSXR can either be spent on rideouts and trips or some decent kit to see you through the winter.
I hope you enjoy whatever you end up with.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Very predictable numbers here for Zuma's consumption, not good, not bad,..
2014 is based on one bike, low mileage, so forget, 2013 numbers should be OK
http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/suzuki/gw_250_inazuma
Beware the engine is a funny mix of new and old, if you think it's funny adjusting valves very frequently you will love this bike ;-)
Very, very, LOW !!!, yet heavy, exhaust like a 1000 ccm :-) typical Japanese
sitting-position, crimpeled together, with no blood-circulation for the legs,
just like my old GS500, arggggg,..
Been having some considerations also, about modifying both Zuma and RKS, like
moving the foot-rest a bit, and rise/rebuild the seat, can decide if it's a sick idea, or not,..
KLE500 f.eks. would be much more comfortable, and with more engine-ragusa for heavy luggage, two persons, and longer motorway-parts before the destination,
even very old KLE's should be rock-solid, and plenty spares, consumption only
marginally over Zuma, imho, nothing that I really would care about,.
(second hand Zuma or KLE500 considered, plus some more, for the longer trips, SV-Norway and north part of Sweden, with DK/SE-south as base)
www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/suzuki/gw_250_inazuma...
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
arya bisma said :-
hi mate, last month I logged 62km/liter on this inazuma during my 200km trip with normal riding 70km/hour. it was not 2 lane highway, sometimes I had to overtake some medium trucks and climb uphill. I rode at 5000-5500 rpm 6th gear and try to constantly keep the speed like that. so smooth, so silence, I could only hear the wind whispered smoothly than the engine sounds. it is very comfortable for me and my pillion. I has enough pulling power to get climb uphill with extra weight on my tank bag and top box.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Arya. That's a really positive report. You're right about keeping the speed steady and not going too fast, that will suit the 250 engine perfectly.
And what a cracking picture! Where was that taken, where are you from?
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
pocketpete said :-
I am a retired Policeman and have ridden lots of BMW bikes at work Boxers and K's. I have had a few bikes over the years 50cc's and 125's 250LC x7 Superdream. Then moving on to early GSX750's Kawasaki 600 and Katanas. Quite an array really.
Over the past few months It has been taking me 30 minutes to get work in Manchester 12 miles away and sometime 2 hours to get home. I leave at 6 in the morning and return at 5 in the evening.
Last week the kids were off and the traffic was even worse so I decided after 15 years of no bike to get a commuter bike. The first thing I found was that 250's are a rare thing the new licences render the group a little rare. But I went and test drove the Honda CB250 the Ninja and the inzuama. I also tried the 650gladius and the Honda cb500.
I really was in a pickle I want a commuter bike but also wanted to do the odd (once a month ride out in fine weather). I liked the Honda 500 but the price of bikes was really staggering especially when you factor in insurance and helmets kit etc.
Most of the dealers wanted to sell me the biggest most expensive bike I could afford. My local suzuki dealer (road and racing Hyde) Gave me a gladius to try for a couple of days. It was fine but insurance and mpg were an issue.
He then gave me the Inzuama which he had ready for another customer it had top box center stand and heated grips. I tried it. Small bike feel but heavy weight. Rock solid simple engine which was very quiet and smooth. Not much poke but handled my journey like a honda c90.
Great MPG and insurance was dirt cheap. I tried the bike for a week and refused to give it back. This bike reminds me of my old honda superdream. Simple solid cheap bike cheap parts and nothing to go wrong. looks wise it is no great shakes but I have stuck a set of panniers on it and a small screen and it looks pretty good.
Running in was a pain sticking to 50mph but now the engine is loose it runs really well even smoother and I'm gettin a steady 80+ to the gallon. This drops if your on the motorway at 70 but only to 60ish.
The mirrors are good but need to be 2 inches wider for a fat bloke like me. It does need to build up speed slowly but it gets there in the end. I have had it out around derbyshire snake pass, cat and fiddle it handles the hills ok and holds the road like a much bigger bike despite skinny tyres. Its not bad in the wet but your feet really get a soaking the mudguard doesn't do a great job. The clocks are clear and easy to follow and the fuel gauge seems really accurate. No reserve tank but it start flashing to warn you in plenty of time.
I have had a passenger on a couple of times and it makes little difference to the performance its still slow and steady. Jacking up the rear shocker makes little difference. It might be different in a couple of years with a tired spring. The centre stand comes with the Suzuki kit. Top Box tank protector etc and a couple of side engine bars. The kit was £ 400 ish and seems pretty good value.
The one thing I really don't like about modern bikes is the always on headlights. I have been assured that the battery and generators are upgraded to take this into account but I would like the option to disable them if required.
Having had the bike for a while now I would like to see suzuki bring out a slightly larger engine version of the same bike. Keep everything the same simple bike but with a slightly bigger engine aka Honda superdream 400cc. Maybe add an extra disc upfront. This would cater for those who want extra power but still want a small light reliable bike.
I remember going to france with a mate who had the 400 twin. He kept up all days with a variety of big cruisers BMW's and Goldwings. When we arrived he after 9 hours of driving his bike never missed a beat and he was fresh as a daisy.
I am a very happy Inzuama customer. Yes the bikes not got great street cred but it makes up for it in fun cheap motoring but with enough in reserve to cover a bit of distance.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Thanks pocketpete!
I'm glad you posted your MPG. I'm always wary of both manufacturer's claims and test rider's claims as they never seem to reflect what ordinary riders get in the real world. 80+ mpg is pretty good, considering it's a heavy bike for a 250.
I understand what you mean about maybe Suzuki taking it up to 400cc as an option. If they could do this without crippling the MPG or turning it into a want-to-be sports bike that may appeal to quite a few folks. Mind you I tour on a 125 so even the 250's poke would seem fast. It's all about managing expectations.
I'm glad you're enjoying it. What about service costs? I enquired about a new bike the other day but at £170 for a service every 3,000 miles I nearly choked!
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
RoryD said :-
I've now done over 2,000 mainly rural miles over the past 4mths on my 2nd hand Inazuma and am very happy with the bike. New to biking, I've been using it for work trips as well as for leisure here in the N of Scotland.
Reflecting pocketpete's comments, I fitted extenders to both the mirrors and to the front mudguard. I also ended up buying a decent sized screen as the bike's low instrument cluster/ headlight unit and upright position made it unnecessarily noisy/ hard work at higher speeds - especially if it was windy. It's now a relaxed and civilised "tourer", and I can fully appreciate the air/ smells/ views with my visor raised/ shades down.
The bike has a broad enough power band that I don't need to keep shifting, and is rewarding on windey country roads. It handles a load of gear very well too. I tend to ride at around 55-60mph on faster roads (mostly single carriageway here), but the bike will readily enough sustain 70 (this is 77mph on clock; Inazumas are apparently 8-10% optimistic - this is supported by the street speed indicators), and will eventually max out at 75-80mph true depending on conditions. So you don't hold traffic up and there's enough power for overtaking slower traffic.
I record all my refuels and have averaged 80mpg by the odometer, which is probably around 72-74 mpg true. The fuel gauge flashes far too early so I tend to fill up at around 200mls as measured by the second trip meter. I've not had to buy any tyres, chain or sprockets (not yet 8,000 mls on it) so cannot comment on the price of spares, but the valve clearance check (every 3,000mls) proved pretty straightforward DIY with help from a fellow owner.
So, while certainly no sports bike or lightweight, the solid, workmanlike, Inazuma seems to be meeting my needs very well indeed. And I'm hoping its limited-but-adequate power will keep my attitude on the bike fairly laid-back, and its running costs relatively low.
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers RoryD. That's a great review and I'm glad you're liking the bike. From what I'm reading on here and around the web most owners think it's a great piece of kit. There is a rumour that the Inazuma might come out in "Adventure Bike" format soon too, that would be cool.
Now - are you deliberately making us all jealous that you live in the North of Scotland? I'll be up there myself in a couple of weeks so you'll have to make me a brew :)
01/01/2000 00:00:00 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
The inzuma has been put away for winter but it's has its first service now which was 85quid. And it's nearly ready for its second service in 5he spring done quite a few jokes now. It's still going strong. Nothings fell off or gone rusty.
I get the odd vibration from time to time it seems to come from the engine area eventually tracked it down to a loose bold on the centre stand.
I've had a couple of passengers on who all say it's pretty comfy for its size. It does seem as if it needs the gearing adjusting maybe change the sprockets to reduce max revs on the motorway. It pulls alright so I think It could handle it.
Saw a chap who has done 14k on his inzuma he delivers urgent NHS samples and xamt speak highly enough of the bike he's another who thinks thus is what the superdream should have evolved into.
09/02/2016 13:50:54 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers Pocketpete. It's good to get feedback on the 'Zuma and I'm glad you're liking it. The one thing that struck me with the 250 was it's size, it is a bona fide fully grown bike. As such there's a proper back seat and space for all.
14k is a good shakedown isn't it. I used to use an old CB 250 Dream, the 1977 forerunner of the Superdream, when I was a Despatch Rider. That finally gave out at about 50 or 60k with a shot crank. That bike was sluggishly heavy. It seems Suzuki have finally done what Honda should have done aeons ago.
09/02/2016 20:10:07 UTC
Robbie roo said :-
Just run in my pre reg 65 plate inazuma really smooth bike looks like a real bike and feels big
Got a fantastic deal from cupar motorcycles and decent discount on top box jacket etc service is ace dave comes to home or work picks the bike up for service an drops it off looking and running even better
Woukd reccomend this bike really smooth comutter or fun bike
22/03/2016 22:03:16 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers Robbie. The professional test riders all seem to want to compare it to the Z300 and the MT03. This bike is not in that class nor is it pretending to be. Everyone I know who's purchased one seems eminently happy with the bike and it fulfils their requirements perfectly.
It seems the good economy and solid "big bike" feel are the favourite aspects. It's also good to hear you're having a positive experience with your dealer too.
23/03/2016 11:44:12 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
The inzuma has done 6400 miles now. It's still pretty much as it was when I bought it. No bits have fell off. The finish is still good a few marks on the chrome exhausts.
I have added 60mm extensions to the mirrors as they were just to narrow for a fat bloke like me.
Got the local bike shop to change the sprockets to reduce revs on the motorway. Which has made a great difference refing at just 8k at 70mph.
The bikes slower but doesn't rev as hard now seems much smoother as well.
Getting 73mpg for the last 30 00 miles.
Still no issues starts first time. Tyres seem solid not wearing much.
You just can't compare this bike to any other 250. It's just not sporty it's boring really ugly but it's big comfy and reliable. Costs nothing to run and carries a pillion with ease.
Everything about this bike is average. Middle of the road. My only regret is they don't do a 400 version.
25/03/2016 18:46:22 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Thanks Pocketpete. This bike is still very much on my radar. Locally I can get a pre-reg new bike for 2.5k compared to 3.5k for the Z250 or anything else for that matter. Second hand ones are great value.
I'm surprised you're getting 73mpg. I would have expected more, perhaps you're a very big chap or are you generous with the throttle? It's good to see real world figures though as often the claims made by manufacturers are somewhat optimistic.
Average is good for me. I'm not here to set the world on fire or break the land speed record. I want to ride in comfort without spending a fortune. 400cc would be excellent as long as they don't ruin the fuel figures. 400cc seems to be out of vogue at the moment though.
25/03/2016 19:06:40 UTC
Henrik said :-
One of our magazines tested Zuma also, and miles per gallon is below average definitely, nothing to write home about, if you get it, its is for other reasons,..
Also its plain ugly, while F version with body is a beauty, but expensive,..
Guess I would try out a Hyosung GT250N or GT250F insteadt in that segment
It sould be better also on the fuel economy, beauty, and 29 HK delivered over a great rpm-span, 17L tank, and 10-15 kg less,...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6IR61g6C_Y...
26/03/2016 19:55:11 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
I thought 73 was pretty good. I'm 6ft tall weigh a pretty heavy 18 stone and have to drive through manchester everyday which I'd very congested.
That's over 3000 miles to get that average so I'm quite happy. Fuel seems a little better since the sprocket ratio change might be edging 76 on the next month.
Weathers improving as well so nay be a few longer rides will increase it. My son in laws aprilia gets nowhere near my bike and he weighs nothing.
29/03/2016 12:03:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Pocketpete. My old CBF 250 typically returns 75 - 80 mpg and that's an old single with a carburettor. The 'Zuma is rated at 85mpg on Suzuki's website but most manufacturers claims are questionable. Most folks are around the 80 mark, I'll put a link to fuelly.com to show what other riders claim to be getting.
Henrik, we don't see many of the Hyosungs here in the UK. They are out there but not in abundance that's for sure. I do want to get a "popular" bike because this means aftermarket parts like exhaust pipes and chain/sprocket kits become easily available and also spares from breakers if required.
One thing about my CBF 125 is that it's been the biggest selling bike in the UK and parts are just everywhere. I used to run a Honda CB400 Super Four and while that was a fantastic bike I could not get parts anywhere. Same with the NT400 Bros I owned too.
I would like to have a go on the Hyosung though. The sporty one in the picture ain't my style but the naked one looks good.
www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/suzuki/gw250...
29/03/2016 12:17:14 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ren: your arguments about a "popular" bike are good, we got a lot of Hyosungs in DK, plenty for ripping, second-hand spareparts from Germany also, and lots of online dealers traditionally in germany as well as US
But must admit that certain spareparts are "drying out" suddenly, exhaust components for my XRX f.eks. ripped of in Europe, except a few stores that take advantage and suddenly charge like 3-400 for an exhaust system.
In fact last time I looked I could only find an exhaust in the US
A very few aftermarket XRX exhaust has also suddenly dissapered from Ebay
Back absorber, pistons and cylinder-tops are also hard to find now
So have been a little more carefull advertising Hyosung lately, or consider
Also the Danish Hyosung import went bankerupt last year, so nothing local
But have to figure out if its just a temporary problem, and also remember that even relatively new Japanese bikes can have problems with spares,...
Inazuma naked is now 3000 GBP new in DK, and the dressed F-version now lowered from 4500 to 4000 GBP, still a bit to high, so not many F-models are
sold, and thus we also wont see many F-models second hand, but many spares are equal, so for spares even the F-model is relatively safe I guess
The Benelli 250 mentioned earlier is suddenly delayed until mid-summer, I find this absolutely unacceptable for all people who have been waiting since winter, now that I think about, it it was announced already 2013 or 2014, and was supposed to hit the EU-market already last year 2015 for sure. I see a problem having trust in Benelli with these constant delays, I would ask my selv the question "how about long-term constant spare-availability", not to be rude, but they cant even manage to get it "out the door", in 3 years ;-)
30/03/2016 05:10:32 UTC
Ross said :-
Another thumbs up for the Inazuma from me! I've had mine two and a half years and it's been a pleasure to own and has run like clockwork. I find Suzuki's estimate of 85mpg easily obtainable in mixed riding, in fact I got in to the low 90's mpg when running-in, the worst I've seen was 74mpg on a trip involving duel carriage way and fast A roads. My usual riding is mixed town and country for pleasure rather than commuting. As others have commented, they are a bit portly for a 250 but I think that makes it more stable in crosswinds or on poor road surfaces and car drivers treat it as a 'proper' bike and show a bit more respect...sometimes!
I've found this web site very useful http://www.inazuma250.com/index.php loads of good information and friendly helpful folks too.
Thanks to you and Sharon for a great web site, keep up the good work! :)
www.inazuma250.com/index.php...
30/03/2016 09:14:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik - I can get a pre-registered (shops sometimes register bikes to make their sales figures look good for a certain month) Inazuma locally for £2,500. That is as cheap as a Honda 125! I wouldn't go for the "F" version, I don't need fairings, they are just more hassle when working on the bike and more expense if you drop the bike.
I cannot find any sales figures for the Inazuma in the UK but there seems to be an active 'Zuma community worldwide as Ross has pointed out. The forum looks active, thriving and informative. That's always a positive.
And with your XRX, ARGH! It's maddening when the spares dry up and the prices rise. Maybe it's time for you to consider a change at some point too.
Ross - Good review and many thanks. Whenever I see owner's reviews on the 'Zuma they are for the most part positive. I can see from the forum that one or two owners have had issues but then every bike is the same. As I've just said the forum seems active and healthy.
One thing that bothers me with the Zuma is the weight. It's heavy for a 250 - this usually has an effect on tyre wear and chain wear. Can you offer any insight into tyre and chain life?
31/03/2016 09:51:26 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
A small criticism of the bike is that the handlebar keylock and parking lights position are so close together it's really easy to leave you lights on when intending to simply lock the steering lock.
I have left the lights on on several occasions fortunately I have returned before I ended up with a flat battery...
I still hate not being able to turn off the headlights...
01/04/2016 07:41:54 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
HAHA! You Pocketpete are NOT the first person to do that. Most Honda's don't have the "P" or park light-lock thing but one or two did. I've done it myself and seen may other bikers stranded by leaving the parking light on. Grrrrr!
I would seriously look at cutting that wire for the "P" or nobbling the lock such that it can't stop in that position.
I've always ridden with headlights on so for the most part not having a light switch is rarely a problem. The only time it gripes is if your battery is a little dodgy, being able to kill the lights might give that tiny teeny bit more juice to get the bike going.
Right...wiring diagram for GW250...which wire can we cut...hehe!
01/04/2016 07:57:05 UTC
Ross said :-
I've covered 4,500 miles on my Inazuma so far, both tyres still look in good shape with little wear evident (I'm not sure what the new tyre tread depth is?), the rear's profile has squared off a bit but I think that's mainly down to my riding style! The original tyres are IRC, which I hadn't come across before, but they've not given me any cause for concern in the wet or dry. The original chain isn't great quality and I've seen reports of all year round riders having to replace them at 6-10,000 miles but with good quality replacements lasting longer. Having said that, I've only needed to adjust mine twice over the mileage I've covered but it did develop a slight tight spot the first time it was used in really wet weather...despite being an o-ring chain!
The link below might give an indication of how many are on the roads of the UK. I see there's used parts starting to become available on ebay as a few bikes have 'bitten the dust', plus there's quite a lot of 'after market' bits available from China as the bikes have been available there and in other Asian markets longer than the UK.
www.howmanyleft.co.uk/?utf8=%E2%9C%93&q=suzuki+gw250...
01/04/2016 09:58:43 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ren: Good prices you got on Zuma, I am sure you would be happy with that bike, with your driving-style I don't think wear on tires and chain will be a big problem, the weight is a double edged sword, there is good sides also, it will be more solid and comfortable on long road-trips, and not so sensitive for luggage-weight on the rear-end
01/04/2016 21:53:57 UTC
Henrik said :-
About XRX, yes, guess I am at a crossroad, and need to choose, to let go, or secure my self with some stock while still possible. Problem is I cant find any alternatives for a little cheap enduro that I dare have standing in my forrest house in Sweeden un-secured. Welding goes fine, even got my own welder now, but had to realize my own exhaust will not be ready for this seasson, damm, just had to order muffler and downpipe in US for 385$ tax and fees will be added, you know the buttomline, crazy, but will not accept to be without it this summer, next week I will have a look at a almost new XRX, with only 15 miles on the clock :-) 2008 model like the one I got, but only been on the road 12 mounths from 2014-2014, try to get the picture also what spares are essential to collect in due time
02/04/2016 07:42:43 UTC
Henrik said :-
2014-2014 should have been 2014-2015
02/04/2016 07:45:34 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Thanks Ross. Those parts mileages seem about what I'd expect so that's fair enough.
According to that rather fabulous website there are coming on for 800 GW250s registered in the UK presently. At the peak of their popularity it seems there were just over 900 CBF250s in 2008.
With approximately 11,000 CBF125s there's a way to go yet! Wish I'd know about that site before, good call.
04/04/2016 06:51:59 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik. "Double edged sword" is absolutely correct and your use of that phrase impresses me as English is not your first language, well done. Weight makes for hard manoeuvres in tight spaces like my shed and extra load on parts. Also it makes for solid handling and luggage capacity. It also makes for a smoother ride due to sprung - unsprung weight ratios. Why cant we have it all! Dammit.
As for the XRX? Unless you are a devoted fan there comes a point where it just becomes a bind to find parts and fix things. What we need Henrik is a devious plan to become super rich so we can just buy things without having to worry about the cost.
04/04/2016 07:01:52 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
Just done my latest fuel figures. Thought I had improved with the new sprockets now doing 75 instead of 73. Minor change but pretty consistent. Went to the Manchester bike show. Saw a gw250 owner in the car park. Had a chat. He's also a happy inzuma owner. The first words out of his mouth were God it's an ugly boring bike closely followed by but I love it and won't swap it.
He did have a big Honda tourer but spent most his time on the gw250 as it was more comfortable around town.
Just got my wife a shuberth m1 helmet and src intercom now she can nag be as we ride. Mines the c3 pro flip up version. Great helmets dead quiet much better than 20 years ago. Light and clear view... gosh things have changed.
06/04/2016 20:13:47 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ren: thanks for the kind words, in DK we have English-lessons from early age, its been a gift that I developed further reading a lot of technical littetature in books magazines, and now on the internet, spoken word less developed
Pocketpete: really good mpg you got there, far better than the test I refered to, wonder if there is big inconsistance from bike to bike, thats seen before from chinese factory-plants, (and simular, like my thai-innova). No matter what, Ren will sure squize the last drop out of it, and be good with a extra 5 liters tank on remote locations :-)
My wife just got a helmet as well, we choose the Caberg Duke, flip-up, nice, consider one myself
07/04/2016 08:01:45 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Here a magazine, MCN, Motor Cycle News, lists specifications for many motorcycles. Among them is my CBF 125 and they claim they get as much as 80mpg out of it! I can only assume they thrash them mercilessly and never use 4th or 5th gear. Nearly all the bikes they have tested give much lower fuel figures than people in the real world get.
As such I am suspicious of manufacturer's claims because they always give the very best case. I also doubt magazine figures as they represent the worst case from people who think everything is a race. I tend to trust real people riding in the real world at normal speeds on ordinary roads.
I think Pocketpete's pretty much on the money, I'm sure he could squeeze more out by riding really carefully but perhaps not that much. There will be differences from bike to bike as no two motorcycles are exactly the same but I doubt there's a BIG difference.
07/04/2016 09:27:07 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Oh and as for the notion of letting my other half have some form of communication...ARGH! Can't think of anything worse! The whole point of the motorcycle is to share your passion for two wheels and appreciation of the places you visit...in silence!
Just teasing. I think I might find it distracting having someone talk to me while riding. There are times when it would be nice to point out the beautiful mountain tops or the quaint cottage I guess but otherwise I find sharing my ride to be a happy balance between being with someone and being by myself.
07/04/2016 09:31:42 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Pocketpete, what size sprockets are you running on your Inazuma now? Did you have to alter the chain to accommodate? I've heard that a 15 tooth front sprocket makes a useful difference and have been thinking about making that change to my bike.
07/04/2016 13:01:09 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
Im not sure what sprockets the shop fitted I just left it to them. I am completely useless with mechanicalso etc.
It's reduce revs by 1000 per gear. Much better on the motorway at 70mph. I think 15 might be correct I seem to recall the shop mentioning that but I've no idea if it's the front or rear they changed. I didn't look.
I'm looking forward to chatting on the new helmets. Look there's a sheep in that field or did you see the red squirrels.
I've only just persuaded my wife after 30 years to get on a bike. I'm trying to make the experience worthwhile. I'm slowly getting her the best kit to enhance the runs out we do in Derbyshire.
Getting the most expensive helmets I could afford with the best intercoms was anot expensive option but she loves the scubert m1. She says it's like riding with nothing on your head. Light with total vision in all directions.
My next purchases will be better gloves and waterproofs. Possibly heated.
Every time we go out now I also treat her to cream tea or pub lunch. Add in a visit to a remote garden centre and she's happy. It's a sort of reward system.
She frequently asks what the forecast is for the best weekend so we can plan a trip out. Might make a biker chick out of her after all
07/04/2016 14:57:45 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Pocketpete - don't you go spoiling that woman! Remember, treat 'em mean keep 'em keen.
Sharon is going to kill me now. I shall get back to you when the bruising goes down and my fingers heal enough to type. Wish me luck...
08/04/2016 08:23:43 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
Lol when you train a dog you offer small treats when their good. I'm simply doing the same but with paula.
Seems to be paying off she's been planning routes around Cheshire and Oswestry to look at churches for family tree research. We also get to ride out and stop in a nice Cheshire pub for lunch.
She's quite taken with biking. I drive pretty sedately with a pillion.
I can treat her mean later for someone 4 foot ten and 8 stone she packs a mean pinch
08/04/2016 14:22:58 UTC
Sharon said :-
Pinch? Pocketpete. I think you deserve a punch. I hope Paula bites the hand that offers her small treats. Beware Pete for if you turn your wife into a true biker girl you should know that we do not allow ourselves to be treated like pets, dogs or otherwise.
08/04/2016 20:08:58 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Oh heck Pocketpete! I think we're both in trouble here. Hehe...always do what you're good at and I'm good at being in trouble.
09/04/2016 05:17:05 UTC
robbie roo said :-
Owned the bike nearly 6 months form new started having electrical issues with lights both brake lights and headlights blowning fuses any one else having problems with electrics everything else is ace really comfy bike to ride
17/05/2016 15:07:27 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Robbie Roo. I suggest you take the bike back to your dealer if it's still under warranty. They really ought not to be blowing fuses regularly.
If not I'd start by checking the bulb mounts and connectors. Also put a multimeter across the bulb connector and check the voltages with the bike running and someone blipping the throttle, it could be overcharging.
Blown bulbs can be a bad earth, but I've never heard of that causing a blown fuse, still it's worth cleaning all the earth contacts.
17/05/2016 18:23:27 UTC
Alan said :-
On the good side Pocketpete, taking herself to a garden center as a pillion means you aren't coming home with half the plant stock in your boot.
09/12/2016 00:46:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
That makes it worse Alan, Pocketpete has to pay for the delivery too.
10/12/2016 06:49:19 UTC
RoryD said :-
Just thought I'd highlight that Suzuki's Inazuma 250 range will no longer be available new in the UK (at least not under that name) from January '17 - due to the EU's requirement for ABS on new bikes over 125cc. They will I believe still be available in the likes of Australia and the US, but are being replaced in the UK by the new ABS duo of the V-Strom 250 and GSX250R. Although stylised/"handle-barred" differently for the "adventure" and "sports" markets respectively, these are essentially both still Inazumas under it all, and will both be fine for commuting/ day tripping. Didn't ask about the GSX250R, but the nearest main dealer to me won't be getting the new V-Strom 250 in until June.
Another update is probably relevant to Robbie Roo's problems above. Inazuma 250s are currently subject to a safety recall as the connections at the foot-brake light switch can corrode/ cause a short-circuit that could lose you all your lighting. So folk will need to check any Inazuma they are considering buying to see if it was affected/ if the work has been done (in UK at https://www.suzuki-gb.co.uk/motorcycles/my-suzuki/vin/).
11/12/2016 16:15:24 UTC
pocketpete said :-
Yes very similar in shape and spec. Definitely just a reworked Inazuma. looks ok though. Maybe an improvement with the ABS. Very heavy for a 250 only a few pounds lighter than my CB500x. Suzuki need to do something to improve their range and quality of bikes as the NEC show was a very poor display of suzuki kit.
11/12/2016 17:53:47 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Yeah to the best of my knowledge the Strom and Gixxer are reworked Inazumas. Many marques use one model as a base to create other models simply because it's a whole lot cheaper!
I'd like to test ride the Strom. As you say Pocketpete it's heavy but still I think it'll be interesting.
12/12/2016 11:28:30 UTC
RoryD said :-
Having ABS on 2017's new smaller bike offerings such as the V-Strom 250 or Versys X 300 is tempting for sure. Whilst I've had few scares so far in my mere 2 seasons/ 9,000mls on the Inazuma, I'd like to give myself the best chances of survival/ avoiding injury on the road - what are folks' views on ABS? Mind you, if I feel the need for ABS, I could get a 2013 CB500X with ABS for a lot less money than buying one of the these new, attractive, smaller bikes.
12/12/2016 13:44:45 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
ABS brings forth a quandary. On the one hand it's more complexity and more to go wrong. On the other hand there is considerable evidence that ABS does improve safety.
As of now or at least pretty soon you won't be able to buy a motorcycle in the UK that does not have ABS unless it's a 125 then it has to have either ABS or CBS.
As for a second hand CB500X versus a new smaller Vstrom or Versys, the choice is yours. I'd be tempted to wait and see the smaller bikes in the flesh. You can then make a more informed decision.
12/12/2016 16:00:53 UTC
Tony said :-
Hi RoryD, my KTM is fitted with ABS and although I'm glad of the safety feature it's purely for peace of mind. As an experienced rider I'm not interested in exploring the limits to activate it. If you read the small print about ABS you'll notice it is really intended for straight line emergency stop type of braking where the rider just grabs a handful. Much better to ride within your comfort zone and not the bikes limits and read the road further ahead.
Personally I wouldn't buy a bike just because it had ABS fitted to it if I also fancied something else. It's all about the riding experience it gives you, in my opinion and how it makes you feel.
Hope that helps with any motorcycle decisions you make in 2017, either way lets hope it's a good one! Ride Safe.
12/12/2016 16:02:06 UTC
RoryD said :-
Thanks for the perspectives on ABS. There's always the lingering thought that there only needs to be that one occasion - however unlikely - that ABS saves the day (and maybe me too!). But I note that Sharon's new bike is also without ABS, so we can share that risk!
I'm hoping to have the self-discipline & financial sense to stick with my Inazuma for a good few years yet; by which time these new small-ish ABS bikes will be available second-hand and may perhaps even be price-competitive with older CB500Xs. In the meantime, I might consider fitting the V-Strom 250's front mudguard to the Inazuma (better clearance for wee stones & better looking IMHO) - and its much lighter single exhaust system (when the original fails).
12/12/2016 18:57:01 UTC
Sharon said :-
ABS seems to cause a lot of hot debate. Those in favour and those against.
I think most agree that it is a good additional safety feature but many do not wish to be forced by regulations to have it.
My bike was £700 cheaper without ABS than the same model with ABS. So I opted for the without.
For someone who is rather safety conscious... Full bike gear, High viz, white helmet, best tyres I can afford etc then it probably seems surprising I went for the none ABS.
Never having rode a bike with ABS when I was looking for a new bike ABS was not a factor I was concerned about. I have locked up my wheels once when braking too hard in the wet. I managed to save it and stay upright. It taught me a lesson that is for sure. But maybe this success gave me the attitude I just did not need ABS. If you lock your wheels like I did you have to be either incredibly lucky or quite skilled to save it. ( I am not saying which I was because I do not know myself). However with ABS the chances are high it will save you from a spill so that has to be good right? Well no if people use ABS as a tool to manage their lack of skilled braking and do not accept if it kicks then their riding was sub standard. After all if your ABS kicks in it means you have messed up. However if it is used to save you in that emergency situation none of us can plan for then yes it is a good thing.
Hmmm do I wish I had it? If my bike came with it I would not be upset by it. If my bike was on offer at the same price for both the ABS and the non ABS version would I have chosen the ABS. Probably yes but I am not fearful of the fact my bike does not have it. Neither does my car have ABS.
Maybe I am old skool or arrogant or simply not very rich but ABS can wait for me to play catch up one day..
13/12/2016 21:22:07 UTC
RoryD said :-
Just wondering whether anyone who comes here has knowledge of the potential impact of increasing exhaust "back-pressure"? I'm trialing my Inazuma with just the single exhaust silencer (DIY plug on other side) to reduce some of the ridiculous rear end bulk - and 5kg weight - and someone has forecast the end of my valves and then demise of my engine :-) as the increased back-pressure they say will prevent the cylinders venting the exhaust gases efficiently!
The twin exhaust pipes merge on entering the catalyst, and there are two exits from the catalyst - what some folk call a 2-1-2 exhaust (I'd like a 2-1-1). I initially drilled out the inner backplate of the remaining muffler to give a freer exhaust flow (as many others do to "enhance" the sound), but I didn't really like the noise, and it was starting to melt the plastic end cap, so I closed the holes and am running just the single, as-original, pipe. The bike seems to run perfectly with just the one, but .......
Most of the stiff on the web concerns reduced back-pressures from installing louder/ freer-flowing pipes, and I can't really form any opinion on the potential risks associated with a possible increase in back-pressure. I'm not precious about it, and would be fine about re-fitting the other muffler if I may risk damaging the engine with just the single- and possibly fitting the V-Strom 250's single pipe system (same engine) in the fullness of time. I've now had the bike almost 2 years/ 9k miles, and remain very happy with it.
There are plenty armchair experts out there without a practical knowledge-base, so I thought I'd turn to BAT to see is anyone had a useful out-of-the-armchair perspective?
Thanks,
- Rory
10/04/2017 07:49:31 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
I can honestly say I'd be about as useful as a chocolate fire-guard RoryD when it comes to advising about back pressures. Sorry!
I'm generally of the opinion that if it ain't broke don't fix it. But then I do like to tinker - dammit.
10/04/2017 13:54:28 UTC
Paul DAVIES said :-
If I were to buy this model would parts be readily available?
22/07/2017 19:30:00 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Hi Paul. It's still a current Suzuki model so Suzuki should have all the spares you need. If you're talking about aftermarket parts then it's a case of look and see.
23/07/2017 07:41:28 UTC
Ross said :-
Sadly Suzuki aren't bringing this great little bike into the UK any more (presumably because it doesn't have ABS?)but are replacing it with the GSX250R and V-Strom 250 which are based on the Inazuma but with different styling, and ABS, which are due to start arriving later this year. A few dealers still have new, pre-registered Inazuma's at very attractive prices and I would think spares should be available for some time because the bikes have sold steadily, if not spectacularly, over the time they've been around in the UK. They were being sold in Asia (and I think still are) some time before they came to the UK so parts are available from over there, all-be-it with a longer delivery time!
I've had my Inazuma since late 2013 and have clocked up just over 7500 miles (Ren, stop sniggering at that pathetic total!) and needed nothing apart from oil and filters for servicing and a brake light switch that was replaced under a dealer recall.
24/07/2017 15:00:14 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
WOW! Many many thanks for that Ross, some really useful info. What is it with the UK and smaller capacity models not selling too well. We're all obsessed with bigger is better. I think we're all compensating for, erm, something.
7,500 miles!!! In 4 years!!!! My miles are bigger than your miles - am I compensating enough?
24/07/2017 15:30:14 UTC
Ross said :-
It may seem small to you but it gives a LOT of pleasure!...ahem, we are still talking mileage aren't we? ;)
I've vaguely been thinking about a replacing the Inazuma but haven't seen anything that comes close to ticking the same boxes for my bike requirements. Sunday I went to watch the British Superbikes at Brands Hatch which involved a trip on fast A roads, a bit of motorway, and some filtering in heavy traffic and I've been reminded that this bike does everything I want...80+mpg is the icing on the cake!
25/07/2017 07:57:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Yes it's not what you got it's what you do with it Ross. If the bike is right for you then stick with it! You'll be aware that some of the commentators on here like to change their motorcycles as often as they change their underpants. I like to get to know a bike...and then run the poor victim into the ground.
Sharon's Z250SL was returning 96mpg on our last run daaaaan saaaaaf. This was a mixture of motorways and A roads with a middling pace and luggage. Colour me impressed. I can only assume those folks who never even consider fuel economy either have too much money or never actually go anywhere.
25/07/2017 13:49:45 UTC
james benny said :-
quite a bike but why /? does it have sidecar/ gearing ps .my royal enfield bullet 350 is nearly as fast to 45 mph at 60 year old . i am older
10/09/2017 21:08:34 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Sidecar gearing? You think it's undergeared I'm guessing. If you're familiar with old Brit bikes you will find modern short stroke motors very high revving. There are arguements for and against this being a good thing.
Despite our modern computers, metallurgy, engineering and technology an engines of 60 years ago still works in the same way as a modern motor. Lob a bit of fuel and air in, squash it up, crack a spark and catch the boom! Be interesting to compare your 350 against the 250 regarding speed, torque, acceleration but most importantly, fun! Bet that old engine pulls like a steam train.
11/09/2017 06:51:59 UTC
Ross said :-
A popular mod' is to fit a 15t front sprocket (14t standard) which makes 1st gear more 'useable' and reduces the rev's a bit at main road speeds to make the bike feel a bit less 'busy' but without noticeably affecting the acceleration.
11/09/2017 20:47:33 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
It seems many motorcyclists prefer a taller gearing. There's a few posts on this website where I've put a larger front sprocket on. It worked on most bikes but I must admit I've reverted back to standard gearing on my CBF125, it just doesn't have the grunt to pull the taller gears when loaded up.
12/09/2017 05:58:49 UTC
rod said :-
just been down to Spain on my 250f towing a small trailer with camping gear.
Full trip was over 2000 miles and one day I covered 714 miles. I averaged over 80mpg and at one fill up did 92mpg. I have owned lots of different bikes, including three of 1000cc. I am now 62 years old and bigger bikes are great when you are riding them, but with age they seem to get heavier when pushing them around. I intend keeping the Inazuma for many years.
04/12/2017 22:49:08 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Rod - when you say 250f do you mean CBF250 or some other 250? I need to know! Also I think we all need to see an image of your "rig". I'm trying to imagine twoing with a 250 - it sounds perfect.
05/12/2017 10:21:07 UTC
rod said :-
Hi Ren,
Its a Suzuki Inazuma GW250F.
Sorry I do not have any pictures, and I have taken the towbar of the bike, as I am not using the bike for camping trips through the winter. I know that most people think you need a Goldwing to pull a trailer, but my trailer weighs 31kg without a load, so even with all of the camping gear tools ect probably weighs no more than 90kgs. That is about the same as a pillion passenger. If anyone knows the climb up from San Sebastian to Pamplona in Spain, I did the whole climb in top gear at around 45 - 55mph (although the bike would have been happier twice on the climb in 5th gear) I just left it in top gear to prove a point to myself.
06/12/2017 12:57:36 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi rod
Congratulations on the trip to Spain and nice to hear an Inazuma was up to that sort of journey. I'm very happy with my 'naked' Inazuma but don't have the time/will to take on such adventures. I just make do with local rides and the odd day trip and find the little Suzuki is so easy to ride and small enough for me to manage it's weight with my creaky old joints!
07/12/2017 09:53:14 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
NO...PICTURES!!! ARGH!! Rod you're living proof that the world is filled with all kinds of people. I simply cannot imagine taking a trip to Spain on a 250 with a trailer and NOT taking pictures.
At least tell me some details. Towball - universal joint - one wheel or two wheels - swingarm or rear subframe and so on.
07/12/2017 10:33:32 UTC
Rod said :-
OK, Its a two wheel trailer with a standard tow ball (50mm I think).
The outside dimensions of the box is 78cm wide and 110cm long. To put this into perspective the handle bars are 72cm wide and the mirrors are 84cm wide.
I had a few minutes between jobs today, so I bolted the tow bar on and got a few pictures.
15/12/2017 12:20:34 UTC
Rod said :-
15/12/2017 12:22:21 UTC
Rod said :-
15/12/2017 12:23:16 UTC
Rod said :-
15/12/2017 12:24:42 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
That looks quite neat but the towbar looks a bit odd. Is it attached to the swinging arm? Most of the ones I've seen (not that many TBH) seem to be cantilevered off the frame.
There are also the single wheeled jobs like in the link below.
www.adventurebikerider.com/build-motorcycle-trailer/...
15/12/2017 16:14:45 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
It can't be attached to the swingarm and the underside of the rear rack. I *think* there are arms going back to the frame at the rear of the engine. Come on Rob we need technical details, drawings, measurements and science!
It's a fair old rig though. Looking at the size of that box I'm start to drool, thinking about all the home comforts we could take with us on our next outing. Thanks Rob.
15/12/2017 19:13:28 UTC
Rod said :-
Hi Ian, The tow bar frame is fitted to the exhaust/rear footrest mounting, and the rear carrier. It is not fixed to the swinging arm, the swinging arm goes up and down between the frame. I had a look at the link! That looks like a good trailer, but I think it may be too long for the UK regs.
15/12/2017 20:09:52 UTC
Rod said :-
After down sizing from a full dress Kawasaki GTR tourer about six years ago, I got a 500 Kawasaki. When I got the 500 my wife decided to come on the back again, and as a result I was missing the large panniers and places to stash stuff when away for a weekend camping. I found a cheap light weight sidecar and spent about a month making brackets to fit the sidecar and setting up the sidecar to carry luggage. The sidecar lasted one day! I hated it, so it was quickly taken of the bike and the sidecar was sold. I then thought about a trailer and started to look on ebay. After a while I saw this one for sale from a motorcycle shop, and the trailer was just the right size, and made for a bike. I won the auction and went to pick up the trailer. When I got there the guy in the shop asked if I had a tow bar, and offered one off a Suzuki 650 which the trailer had been attached to and we agreed a price of an extra £5.00,
After making two small brackets the tow bar fitted, and after a quick ride I was very happy with the handling and the performance.
Next weekend we went down to Lynmouth for the weekend in Devon, about a 400mile round trip. The trailer performed well, we took all of the kit we wanted, and the bike returned 65mpg. The trailer is the perfect solution for me, as I do not tour at 100mph. When I down sized again to the Inazuma the tow bar would not fit anywhere, so I had to make up more brackets, this is why its a bit heath robinson! I first made the brackets from dexion type angle iron, but this flexed too much, so I got a mate to weld strengthening square section inside the angle iron. It is now very stable, and although the speed limit for towing a trailer is 60mph I have taken it up to 75mph on my personal test track lol with no problems. Ren the other advantage of towing the trailer if you take the plunge, is that you can leave it parked up with all of your camping gear locked out of sight, and you do not have to carry bulky biking gear and helmets with you when you are walking around.
15/12/2017 21:10:10 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Cheers Rod. I am tempted I really am. I just can't get my head around what it does to the handling. You seem to find it just fine but others seem to find it quite lairy.
Where abouts do you hail from Rod?
16/12/2017 22:37:14 UTC
Rod said :-
I understand that trailers are not for everyone, and there are pros and cons.
The maim drawback is the speed limits imposed by law, 50mph on normal roads and 60mph on duel carriageways and motorways. The handling is not that bad at these speeds, but by far the most important thing effecting the handling is the tyre pressures. These need to be much lower than I first thought, and when empty I have found that you can run as low as 12psi, fully loaded I run 18 - 20 psi. If you run higher tyre pressures the trailer will bounce which effects the handling when cornering. Having said that all of the bikes I have loaded with full camping gear without a trailer have had the handling effected by the extra weight.
The other disadvantage is filtering. You can filter with the trailer, but I always feel uneasy as to if other road users have seen the trailer. Also I have had instances when riding a bike with large panniers in London where I have held up smaller bikes trying to filter through the traffic because I can't get through the smaller gaps, and the trailer will do the same, so you may not be popular with fellow bikers. I do not normally filter with the trailer, and plan my routes to try to avoid areas were there is traffic.
I have spoken to bikers who find a trailer a restriction of there freedom, but in all cases they tend not to go camping, but like to use hotels, or bed and breakfast, and like to get from A to B at much higher speeds than I travel at. You pays your money and take your choice!
I live in Northamptonshire.
17/12/2017 13:01:19 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
You could get a nice little caravan to tow behind your 125 Ren. It might slow it down a bit though......
17/12/2017 15:22:49 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Ian - one of the laws covering towing with a motorcycle is that to tow a trailer with a motorcycle that motorcycle must be over 125cc! Oddly though, I can tow another motorcycle on my 125. I don't fancy it myself though.
As for the caravan. In the picture it is hitched to a sidecar combo which has different rules but a solo motorcycle trailer cannot weigh more then 2/3 the kerbside weight of the bike or 150kgs, whichever is less. I would rather like the caravan though.
Rod - am I correct in thinking when you talk of the tyre pressures you are referring to the trailer tyres and not the motorcycle tyres?
I think I'll put a page together about trailers and my thoughts on them. Interesting stuff!
18/12/2017 09:20:13 UTC
Rod said :-
Yes Ren, I was referring to the trailer tyre pressures.
I think that a motorcycle combination is treated the same as a solo motorcycle for towing under UK law eg maximum 150kgs. A trike is treated as a 3 wheel car, and has different rules. I am not sure what the rules would have been when the picture from Ian was taken? It looks like it may be a UK pic as the chair is on the left of the bike?
18/12/2017 13:11:24 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
Hi Rod.
The picture is from 1927, and is indeed from the UK. The caravan was actually supplied by the bike manufacturer - Rudge - who were very innovative, pioneering among other things coupled front & rear brakes and radial 4 valve heads - all well before the 2nd world war! They also produced a sidecar which consisted of a demountable Canadian type canoe.....
I have no idea of what the rules would have been at the time although they would certainly have been far less restrictive than nowadays - no Type Approval for instance.
The whole outfit - bike, sidecar and caravan apparently cost a whopping 130 guineas (showing what an up-market marque Rudge was). Around £7,500 in today's money based on RPI inflation. A bargain!
18/12/2017 14:02:51 UTC
Rod said :-
Thanks Ian, Great information!
18/12/2017 19:07:52 UTC
Rod said :-
Suzuki Inazuma 250 MPG
Although I do not check my fuel consumption at every fill up, I have now owned the Suzuki Inazuma for a long enough period to report my fuel consumption. First of all I have never had a figure of less than 70mpg. Using the bike for normal use on a mixture of roads gives between 75 and 80mpg. When touring I will get between 80 and 90mpg.
Over the last few years I have owned a Suzuki GS125 which I used as a winter bike, but this year I am using the 250 Inazuma as my only bike. When filling up the other week I worked out very roughly that I must be getting close to 100mpg, but I had not set the trip meter back to zero so I was not quite sure. Using the GS125 I would get 125 to 130mpg solo and 110 to 115mpg when used with a pillion, so I thought I would see what the Inazuma was doing with similar use as the 125 for a direct comparison.
In the winter I ride slower anyway (much warmer riding at 45mph than 65mph) so I watched the speed I have been riding at and kept it to a similar speed as the 125, eg 45 to 50mph.
After use on a mixture of roads and about 130miles I filled up to exactly the level I had started with and checked the fuel consumption. The bike had achieved 110.5mpg.
So its good to know if I take it easy, or I am riding with another rider on a 125 I can do over 300 miles on a tank full!
23/02/2018 21:12:22 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
110 mpg!! That's very impressive Rod. I've just done a post about my 500 achieving 97 and now you've just blown it out of the water. Cheers, pfffft.
Did you have to ride like an angel? I know you said you were taking it easy, just how easy?
I was always impressed by MCN's mpg for the CBF125. They achieved 87.5mpg. When I thrash my CBF up the motorway loaded with luggage I am distraught to find I get about 110mpg, in general I get 135-140. I can only assume the MCM test rider didn't find 4th or 5th gear.
www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/honda/cbf125/2009/...
24/02/2018 07:31:19 UTC
Rod said :-
Ren - The Ed said :-
110 mpg!! That's very impressive Rod. I've just done a post about my 500 achieving 97 and now you've just blown it out of the water. Cheers, pfffft.
Did you have to ride like an angel? I know you said you were taking it easy, just how easy?
I was just riding as I normally ride in the winter. I keep it below 50mph, but did find myself riding at just under 60mph on a couple of occasions on the A14 duel carriage way.
I have just read your post on the 500 Honda mpg, 97mpg is still very good.
I was just trying to compare the 125cc bike with the 250cc bike. The 250 Inazuma has a very wide spread of what little power it has, so you do not need to rev the engine to get it going, and most roundabouts can be taken in 5th gear.
Absolutely agree with your comments about riding at 70mph in the winter. Its much more comfortable and warmer at under 50mph!!!
24/02/2018 12:20:39 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
The A14 you say? That'll be that there daaaaan saaaaaf. I remember the A14 well as I did a few stints as a motorcycle instructor in Bury St Edmunds. We also traversed said road on our way back from The Netherlands.
You sound like a jolly sensible chap to me, keeping that speed nice and steady is the future I tell you. I do hope you have a little play time occasionally though when traffic and circumstances allow. We all need a little fun once in a while.
It's damn parky out there right now! You're on the Eastern side so you'll be copping for the worst of this Siberian weather. Wrap up warm and stay safe!
26/02/2018 08:50:28 UTC
Rod said :-
The snow has arrived, but not that bad at the moment.
I can still have some fun, even when taking it easy and saving fuel.
I am sure that you already know that using the controls on the right (throttle and brake) destroy good fuel economy, so taking that 50mph bend at 50mph instead of slowing down to 30mph saves fuel and is fun.
The skill is reading the road ahead, and keeping a steady speed.
26/02/2018 17:34:05 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Here in the grim North there's the (in)famous Cat & Fiddle. It's actually quite an ordinary road over a hill but it has a remarkable number of corners. As such it's a favourite for bikers and it has claimed quite a few of them over the years.
In a bid to abate the carnage there is now a 50mph speed limit in place being enforced by average speed cameras along its length. While this (theoretically) should prevent the very high speed crashes it has not spoilt the road from a riding point of view. Taking some of the corners at 50mph is wildly exciting or indeed impossible. So yeah, maintaining speed through bends is exciting AND economical. I like you Rod.
I would imagine the snow is a little thicker by now?
27/02/2018 14:49:53 UTC
Henrik said :-
Maybe I get one seccond-hand soon, and get rid of the Innova.
Dont know if I will get throug this lenghty thread though :-)
Much of it I know, an much is obvious, but still appriciated if someone owning it for a while couls say like "5 best and 5 worst thing"
What to look for, what might fail, weak points etc
Anything not "obvious"
Also the possibility to eventually rise it a bit, move the foot-rest, and have a more upright position is of my interest if possible
Thanks in advance
15/03/2018 13:31:44 UTC
Henrik said :-
As ugly as it is ,.. it could have been a nice bike ,.. but no
Seems there is only steer-risers and not any jack-up for the rear available
www.youtube.com/watch?v=kte56NW4X8c...
16/03/2018 12:55:46 UTC
Henrik said :-
Another rebuild even more fine
They use the same engine still in new 2018 bikes, that is prommising for the longivity in parts-availability
bikebrewers.com/suzuki-inazuma-250-brat-bendita-macchina/...
16/03/2018 14:29:13 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
My questions regarding the Inazuma after it's been out for several years now are...
What fuel consumption are real world riders getting? According to fuelly.com (http://www.fuelly.com/motorcycle/suzuki/gw_250_inazuma) the real world figure seems to be about 74mpg. Of course this will improve if it is ridden carefully but then my 500 gets 80mpg when ridden carefully.
How many have been sold? Here in the UK we don't see many 'Zumas. This means aftermarket parts and spares from breakers are going to be quite rare. I'd feel more confident if they'd been a big seller here but regrettably the UK is still power obsessed.
Reliability? I know Daffyd who's contributed on here a few times had a dropped valve in his Zuma. That is of course a straw poll, a one off. I think it would be worth visiting the GW250 forums to see what the common issues are.
The cafe racer come grass track come scrambler customs are very nice. Would you consider building something like this yourself Henrik? If that's your thing, if that's what you want to do then fabulous! I'd love to cover the build here on BAT too. If however you like the style but don't want the build you can buy some very pretty Chinese 250s at a good price. Herald...?
16/03/2018 18:27:18 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Henrik, I'll have a go at answering some of your questions! I've had my Inazuma for just over 4 years now and covered just over 8000 miles, I bought it new but pre-registered from a local Suzuki dealer, so I'm the second registered owner. For me, it's best points are the smoothness of the motor, very easy to ride and handle and a large comfortable saddle. It is quite big for a 250 which to me is good because it means it's stable in cross winds and on poor road surfaces and it looks like a full-size bike so you don't get bullied by cars and vans like can happen on smaller bikes. The down side of it's size is it's quite heavy for a 250. I would put fuel economy on the 'best things' side too, I usually get 82 to 85 mpg with a worst of 78mpg (best being 94mpg!). So far the bike has been 100% reliable.that's jinxed it!
On the 'worst things' side I would say short service intervals (every 3000 miles if you go by the book) is potentially a big one if you cover a lot of miles and have to pay for dealer servicing. Suzuki say the valve clearances should be checked at every service (screw and lock-nut type adjustment) but experience suggest this is a bit over the top. My local dealer, who's sold several Inazuma's advised me that after the initial 600 mile check, 7-10000 miles is ok without another inspection and my bike had a minor adjustment of one valve at this first service and then was checked again at 7000 odd miles and all were within specification, so that seems to be true.
The black painted middle section of the exhaust system is prone to rusting if the bike is used all year round. If my bike has been out in the rain I rub this section over with an oily rag and that seems to have kept it looking good.but it can get a bit smoky when it's first started after the rub down! The original chain seems to be of poor quality and needs plenty of care and maintenance to prevent it looking rusty and developing tight spots. I understand from other owners who use their bikes all year round, front wheel bearings can fail at 15 - 20000 miles too.
I find the riding position comfortable so, other than fitting a Puig screen, I've left it alone. If you wanted a more upright riding position the neatest way would be to use the higher bars from the fully-faired F model but as these are one-piece you'd need to use the top yoke from the F model and probably the brake line and control cables too, which for genuine Suzuki parts would be expensive unless you could find one being 'broken' for parts.
If you've got any other questions about the Inazuma just ask and I'll try to answer them, there's a lot of good stuff in the older posts here... https://www.inazuma250.com/ ...but the forum's gone very quiet of late!
16/03/2018 21:33:21 UTC
Rod said :-
Hi Henrik, I agree with all in the post from Ross.
I find the Inazuma the most comfortable bike I have ever owned, and have been biking for 47 years. Last year I rode 714 miles in one day without problems. My bike is the 250F with the higher bars, and I am only 5'4'' so very small. I agree with the fuel consumption figures that Ross has given in his post. I covered just over 200 miles one day this week, and the bike achieved 91 mpg at legal speeds. On the down side I have read a lot of posts from owners that have sold the Inazuma because of the lack of power. I can understand this if they are looking for a performance machine or they ride with other bikes which are faster. A realistic top speed is 85 - 90 mph as the red line comes up at 92mph in top gear with standard gearing.
16/03/2018 22:13:26 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Awwww - I'm feeling the love for the 'Zuma! I'm really pleased to hear you're enjoying the 250 - and that you both don't seem blind to it's foibles too.
I must admit the 3,000 mile service interval along with the "vague" pricing for services at my local dealership rather put me off. There are 2 sides to this of course. While my CB500X enjoys an 8,000 mile service interval with the tappets/shims being checked every 16,000, actually getting down to do the shims is a blasted nightmare!! If you're self-servicing the 'Zuma looks a lot lot easier. Have any of you done the tappets and if so is it an easy task?
17/03/2018 13:40:22 UTC
Henrik said :-
THANKS !!! for the answers !!! usefull info !!!
Today looking on a new GW250 and GW250F, and missed a second hand-offer,..
Feel more comfortable on the "F", and find it nice, nut ugly like "basic"
Both of them very low, for my 6 feet, and soft in rear-suspension, so while there is surprising much space to bring my wife with me every now and then, I am afraid its belly would scratch the road, especially with some luggage, (we are both normal in build, and weight), but driving both will be very little, so guess it should not influence to much on the final decission.
Decent amounts of Zumas are sold in DK, and worldwide, and engine still used for 2018 models, DL/GSX, repair manuals are available, I feel safe as can be with spares and support.
Chinese non-brand is out of the question, and almost out of the DK market, there have simply been to much troubles and lack of support and continuity
Kawasaki Z 250 SL Could be an option maybe, but maybe even worse for two persons, and luggage solutions ?
New DL250 enduro likely be perfect in height/suspension but to expensive
The approximate prices and valid candidates:
Used Zuma 250 = 2500 GBP (prefered solution, but none available right now)
New Zuma 250 = 3500 GBP ("maybe")
Used Zuma 250F = xxxx GBP (not on the DK market, as almost none is sold)
New Zuma 250F = 4700 GBP (a bit expensive for a 250)
New DL 250 = 5700 GBP (far to expense, gets close to a good 500cc)
Used Z 250 SL = 3200 GBP (no one available at the DK market right now)
New Z 250 SL = 4100 GBP (don't know, didn't consider until today)
The first solution is prefered, becourse I am uncertain, and consider the hole thing maybe temporary. So just to get some trips done on the cheap 2018/19, fact is that my KLE500 project is delayd and maybe will be dropped due to lack of time, and not feeling sure about the project any longer.
Kawasaki Z250SL, don't know, guess the Zuma has more place for two, and better luggage-options, plus cheaper priced for a temporary solution, but sure the Z250SL is a more fun bike. More grunt. They are both small.
Doing valves, service, small repair, I can manage myself, thanks for info !!!
For the price, I can live with the weak engine, to high weight, to little tank, and consumption being average, everything is average, I am aware of it all, but build quality seems decent, absolutely, and a solid solution for having something that works NOW !!!
(and who knows, maybe it will do it, even as a permanent solution)
Biggest problem is likely the size and position sitting on it
My old GS500 didnt fit me well for long trips, guess around same size as Zuma
Guess I would not modify a Zuma into a scrambler, but take a break and focus on getting it used, while having a break and consider what to do on long term, becourse I don't realy now as we speak
Maybe this season will "only" be small local trips on the Hyosung XRX 125,
that is an absolutely OK "plan B", if I nothing else happens, I am not totally without a bike
Right now I guess I will just get myself ready if a good second hand offer on a basic Zuma should show up any time soon
Thanks again
17/03/2018 15:59:07 UTC
pocketpete said :-
Had the 250Zuma. Loved the ugly little thing. Seat was brilliant and it handled well.
Only got rid as I needed a touch more power have you considered a second hand CB500x.
Not the best seat for my fat bum but all in all very nice steady bike.
17/03/2018 18:17:28 UTC
Ross said :-
Ren said..."I must admit the 3,000 mile service interval along with the "vague" pricing for services at my local dealership rather put me off."
I'm in the fortunate position I can afford to have someone else do this sort of work on my bike these days. Last spring a local Suzuki dealer (Kent) charged me £197.27 to check the valve clearances, change the brake fluid, change the engine oil and filter and inspect and check the bike over. This included all the parts, oils and bits and pieces needed and the use of an SV650 courtesy bike...looking at the bill it looks like they charged me 2 hours labour in all, which seems reasonable to me.
I understand a few folks on the Inazuma forum I mentioned previously have done the valve check their selves and it sounds reasonably straight forward with a bit of practice and patience required to remove the various side covers and panels to gain access...thought not as bad as a CB500X!
Henrik said..."Both of them very low, for my 6 feet, and soft in rear-suspension, so while there is surprising much space to bring my wife with me every now and then, I am afraid its belly would scratch the road"
The rear shock on the Inazuma is set to the middle position as standard so there should be some scope for firming up the rear end and getting a 'small' increase in ground clearance.
17/03/2018 20:18:04 UTC
Henrik said :-
Ross said: "The rear shock on the Inazuma is set to the middle position as standard so there should be some scope for firming up the rear end and getting a 'small' increase in ground clearance"
Ok, thanks, that might help a bit, the salesman kinda admitted that the rear suspension was generally to the soft side for pillon and luggage use, and also said that it was up the hill with no options for rear-risers and optional better monoshocks, at least if for a reasonable price, every thing can be done expensive custom-made, but will not make sense nessesary ;-)
As for the Z250SL guess I drop that one, no OK luggage-soultions, bad rear-seat and pillon-comfort, lack of rear handles, size,.. to many practical issues,.. but fine as a "raw bike" sure,.. especially for small persons
Got a short "still available ?" request out on another 2014 second-hand Zuma, but the default price suggested is to high compared to new, and no response though the messenger is already been seen and ticked hours ago, this sort of "slow communication" always pisses me off :-) guess I drop the "conversation" later today if still not fruitfull
18/03/2018 09:30:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
When the used basic Zuma is only around 600 GBP cheaper than a new its hard to decide, its not much saved on the pure price, but a dealer in DK would put 200-250 GBP on top for "delivery and plates", in opposition you can re-register a second-hand for just around 50 GBP and keep the plates
But then comes the dealer-services to keep the guarantee
So in the end, a relatively lille amount saved, can still sum up to around 1100-1300 GBP seen over 1-2 years, when all things are considered
1100-1300 GBP is a lot to save down in that bike-segment
18/03/2018 10:03:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
I think you're right about the Z250SL. It would be a nightmare for pillions and as Sharon has discovered luggage is unavailable.
New...used...? Obviously the ideal motorcycle is one that has about 1,000 miles on the clock but is half the original price. But this isn't an ideal world. All you can hope for is a low mileage example at a good price. Are you in a rush? Can you wait for the right deal? Here in the UK as the winter is passing (although it snowed last night) now is the wrong time to buy. Prices will be high as bikes start to sell in preparation for the long (wet, cold) summer.
18/03/2018 11:56:05 UTC
Rod said :-
I also agree with the comments about the Z250L. Its not a very good choice if you want to take a pillion.
The other bike I looked at when I got the Inazuma was the 310 BMW, but the Inazuma just felt right and the BMW did not. The BMW may be better for a taller rider?
18/03/2018 15:46:42 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks both for confirming about Z250
Yes, got my eye on the BMW 310 also ,.. especially the GS is apealing
Unfortunately it is so expensive in DK that a SV650 or CB500 would be only 1000-1200 GBP away, makes no sense,...
Same could be said about Versys-X 300 ,.. I could put 1500 GBP on top of that and get a basic DL650 ,.. not OK
Husquanas and KTM with the same 375ccm suffer from valve-problems and broken top-gaskets etc ,... also not ok
Bikes like DL650 got a little cheaper in DK last year due to other taxes
Makes the 300-segment suffer as they did keep their old prices
Models on the DK market are getinng less in 2018, it narrows down, Chinese non-brand bikes are almost gone, and for the rest many of them are equal to eachother, sharing same engine etc, even across brands,..
18/03/2018 16:05:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Now here in the UK the Chinese are dare I say it pushing out the big brands in the small engined motorcycle bracket. £1500 sees a youth on the road with a smart looking bike. Of course they don't look after it so everyone thinks "Chinese bikes are crap!" Sharon's Keeway has been fine though primarily because she's looked after it.
Think about the 125s on offer from the big companies. Honda have some scoots, the CBR125 and the CB125F. There's no longer an on-off roader like the XR125 and the Varadero 125 has gone. Kawasaki only has a 125cc scoot. Yamaha has a naked and faired sporty bike and the street YS125, no on-off roaders. Suzuki are much the same although the Van-Van is still there.
Whereas the Chinese have scramblers, cruisers, dual-sports, classics, cafes and some real odd-balls as well as sporty or street models. I agree they are for the most part the same bike dressed differently, but still there is a choice. I feel as though the big marques have all but given up on the 125 market here.
19/03/2018 12:14:22 UTC
Henrik said :-
Only serious china dealer left here is Thansen with Keeway/Benelli, see link
There might be a few small ones also, and some left-over around the country
All segments in any brands are reduced
Anyway, I got a deal on my hand, and have a date 2 April, to look closer, its a 2014 basic Zuma, black, with 3100 miles on the clock, should look very "fresh", there is a luggageholder also included, and little windshield
The price is 77 pct compared to a new model, and then comes the before mentioned additional savings due to avaioding "delivery fees", and not being forced to the first two services due to keeping some guaranty
Look forward, would likely get a few more MC roadtrips done 2018 in case ;-)
Norway in car though, in full swing modding our Fabia into a little camper
19/03/2018 20:29:46 UTC
Henrik said :-
Well the link dissapeard in mystic ways
I try again
www.thansen.dk/scooter-knallert-mc/motorcykel-og-mx/motorcykler/n-306258508/...
19/03/2018 20:31:57 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Henrik
The Inazuma in the picture looks nice and seems to have some thoughtful extras too, which is hopefully a good sign it's been loved and looked after! As well as the windshield, there's a tank protector, a substantial mudflap on the front wheel, and from what I can see of the luggage rack, it looks like a genuine Suzuki one(expensive!)...and someone has taken the time and trouble to add neat red rim tapes to set it all off! :)
20/03/2018 15:37:00 UTC
Henrik said :-
Hi Ross
Yes, I look very much forward to see it, and hope for the best,..
It's a busy career-woman in her 30's with control on things and a love for MC
She has upgraded for something bigger
Got a top-box, and some Throw Over Panniers, guess that is all needed,..
Insurance is checked out ,.. its ok and fair
20/03/2018 21:15:09 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
It looks like a fair bet that Zuma Henrik. The only way to be sure is to go look see.
21/03/2018 12:27:58 UTC
Henrik said :-
Maybe Power Comanders deserves their own topic
Don't know much about it, just that it modifies default programs on injection
I see them use it mostly on larger bikes for tuning
Now I see that it is available for a Inazuma 250 as well :-)
What is the idea in this case ? what is the possible "gain" ?
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SUZUKI-GW-250-2013-2017-DYNOJET-POWER-COMMANDER-FC-FUEL-CONTR...
24/03/2018 11:38:55 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
The idea with a power commander is to allow an owner to tune their computer controlled digitally managed fuel injected motor. They work by sitting between the motorcycle's inputs into the computer and outputs from the computer and then modifying the signals to suit.
You can tweak the settings using a laptop plugged into the power commander. You can cause the bike to run richer at lower revs or ignite the plugs earlier and so on.
Of course Suzuki didn't just throw out the Zuma from the factory with a basic program or mapping. It will be set primarily to pass emissions in various countries, to provide efficient fuelling and to NOT do things that are likely to burn out valve seats or fill the exhaust with carbon build-ups.
I'd estimate you'd perhaps get a couple more BHP at the cost of efficiency and/or engine life...
26/03/2018 08:40:01 UTC
Ian Soady said :-
When I had my Triumph Tiger 955i, the forums were full of complaints about the "stumble" around 3,000 rpm which was put down to the mixture being leaned off at this point to pass emissions testing. Some people used power commanders but I was not keen as it seemed a very crude way to adjust fuelling.
I got hold of a software package that allowed me to look at, and more importantly modify, the air / fuel maps. Looking at the map around 2,500 - 3,500 rpm it was clear that it was set to a ratio of 14.5:1 for throttle openings less than 40%. This had two effects: one that this is quite a weak mixture especially on acceleration, but perhaps more importantly it put the ECU into "closed loop" mode where it constantly adjusted the ratio driven by the values supplied by the O2 sensor.
Changing these values to around 13.5 both richened it up slightly but even better put it into open loop mode where it ignored the O2 sensor.
Result? Creamy smooth acceleration and reliable running in the 3,000 rpm area.
26/03/2018 09:28:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
So far (having only owned 2 fuel injected motorcycles) I haven't found any fuelling issues. I believe the early Triumphs, as well as many other marques, struggled to get the fuelling right and working over a variety of different situations. I guess that times have moved on and the technology has matured.
26/03/2018 17:24:54 UTC
Henrik said :-
Power Comander for Zuma seems crazy
Unless of course for adjusting into a new exhaust-system,...
More power or better fuel-economy is likely up the hill with that engine
Anyway, it takes knowledge to adjust it,..
26/03/2018 19:35:40 UTC
Rod said :-
The fuelling on the Inazuma is perfect. THERE IS NO NEED TO MESS WITH IT!!
26/03/2018 20:24:52 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Listen to Rod he knows what he's talking about :-)
26/03/2018 20:35:55 UTC
Henrik said :-
OK, OK,... I listen,...
Got it !!!
:-)
26/03/2018 20:43:07 UTC
Henrik said :-
Its getting closer ,.. lets see
One thing I will have to work with in case I get it, and intend to keep it, is the ride-position
Lowering the footrests will be a nightmare, and also on the non-F version there can not be used steering-riser
Still no risers or monoshock for rising is found, so left to the default possible adjustments, and fixed hights of rear suspension,..
But of course, there is a fix for everything, needed be,..
First thing will be rising the seat with simple foarm and test it for a periode before using any further time, if it shows out to be a keeper, then it makes sense to put more time in it
Guess I could learn to live with the weakness of the engine, I am old and gray now :-)
30/03/2018 14:47:01 UTC
Henrik said :-
Bought one today, (not the one mentionen earlier), been test-driving a bit today, a very good initial impression, could very well be a keeper, driving position better than expected, better than the GS500 that did ride me like a mare, with the legs totally folded together, and dead on less than an hour. The engine seems like a little pearl, the size considered,... bed time :-)
06/04/2018 19:06:26 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Henrik
Congratulations on the new bike! :) I had been wondering if you'd been to have a look at one...look forward to hearing your thoughts on it when you get out and about with it.
07/04/2018 09:00:51 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Whoop whoop!! So what's the mileage and the price and where did you get it and and and...?
07/04/2018 18:59:30 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks Ross and Ren
Will return later with a few pics, been busy in Sweden for some days, (garden), but just a few fact for now,..
Its even cheaper than the first one, and younger :-)
2.575 GBP, 73 pct compared to new-price, and from mid-sesson 2016 ,.. so only one and a half sesson in use
Horrible "on the street taxes" will be saved
Milage around the same 3100 miles
Givi top-box holder, and pannier holder, plus new and better tires, all in place, and all things that I would self have had to spend money on if not
Defective brake-light contact also exchanged already under warenty
Tank-protector
Electronic alarm
Like new ,.. no damages
New Chain, and rear sprocket, gearing changed, don't remember from what to what, but the old sprocket is there also
To be continued ;-)
08/04/2018 22:16:16 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Henrik - rather than stick the details on here why don't you put together a post about the bike, about buying it and what you think of it so far?
09/04/2018 09:24:38 UTC
Henrik said :-
You mean a new separate topic ?
You want me to send it by mail when I am able to put together something more complete, instadt of all these small fragments ?
Admitted this topic is getting awfull long and heavy :-) :-)
09/04/2018 09:32:50 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Yeah Henrik, drop me an email. You don't need to wait to form a comprehensive review, you can do that when you've done a few miles on it. I reckon we'd like to hear the story and thinking behind why you've chosen the bike and how you came by it.
09/04/2018 16:42:39 UTC
Henrik said :-
Hi Ren ,.. will try to put something together, but might take a little time
Question:
Opinions on GW250 forums are diveded, but what oil-type for Zuma, half or full synthetic ?
(will do first service in a few days)
13/04/2018 07:06:02 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
OH my GOODNESS!!! Now you are opening a whole can of worms!
If you need an answer straight away play safe and go fully synth. Then...then we can have a year long discussion about whether or not it is necessary, whether or not to use car or motorcycle specific oil, whether or not you should change it daily, weekly, monthly, yearly or never, whether or not you use 10W-40 or 5W-30 and so on and so on and so on and so on and so on....
So that's TWO items we can put together. The story of your 'Zuma and the big old oil debate.
13/04/2018 08:08:11 UTC
Rod said :-
I use a semi synthetic 10W-40, but as Ren said you are opening a can of worms, as opinion is divided. I would just like to add that you should not use a car oil which has 'ENERGY CONSERVING' properties. This oil has an additive ( I think it is silicone ) which can affect the clutch on a bike, which uses the oil for the transmission as well as the engine.
13/04/2018 09:46:44 UTC
Ross said :-
As long as it meets the right spec' (10W40 API SG or higher) either is ok...and I think most branded motorcycle oils in semi or fully synthetic meet or exceed that spec' so you pays your money and takes your pick! The Inazuma engine isn't in a high state of tune so why would you need fully synthetic? On the other hand, small engines are often worked hard so perhaps fully synthetic? Hope that helps! ;)
13/04/2018 11:18:08 UTC
Ren - The Ed said :-
Would...would you like me to put up a page to discuss this subject? This could go on for hours and hours and hours!
I'm teasing. Still...I might just put up the page.
13/04/2018 21:12:21 UTC
Henrik said :-
Rod, Ross, Ren,..
Thanks for the quick answer, and for digging out the essense far as possible
I agree with all, and only asked becourse I use Louis own 10/40 semi for the rest of my bikes, and it was tempting to just use the same all over the line
However for the reasons that Ross mentions, and due to the fact that the bike seems like something I will keep and care for, I have made a choice to use full-syntetic good oil in this case, an my choice is made: Motul 7100
Fiters, Motul-oil, and other things is already ordered
For my part "thats it", so I move on, and leaves the oil in the engine :-)
www.motul.com/fr/en/products/7100-4t-10w40--2...
14/04/2018 01:08:33 UTC
Henrik said :-
I might perhaps return later with a write-up pon the new Zuma, but got a quick question about gearing, wanted to know if anyone have changed the sprockets for a higher gearing ??? (as the default 46/14 seems FAR to low)
In case someone did some experiments I am curious as what you find optimale
I will continue for a while with 46/14, until I know the bikes full behaviour and consumption, so I can later compare figures truly, but already got a 39 rear sprocket from the previous owner, don't see why he took it off, I intend to put it on again :-)
30/04/2018 01:01:13 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Henrik
The favoured gearing change on the Inazuma forum seemed to be to change the front 14t for a 15t sprocket. I have this change on my bike on it makes it feel less 'busy' and makes 1st gear much more useable...with the standard gearing you needed to change to 2nd almost as soon as you are moving, which could prove awkward on some junctions. I haven't tried other gearing personally but seem to remember some suggesting that if you went smaller on the rear sprocket (eg your 39t) you have to remove links from the chain.
I got my 15t sprocket from here:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Suzuki-INAZUMA-GW250-27510-48H10-000-ENGINE-SPROCKET-Front-Sprocket-15T-fit-for-GW250-GSR250S-Original/32328758783.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.Al51BZ
It was a straight swop with no other changes required. I'm told you can also use an OEM 15t sprocket from the Suzuki TU250 but you need a packing washer.
30/04/2018 14:18:16 UTC
Rod said :-
Before changing the gearing be clear what you want to achieve. Changing to higher gearing does not always give better fuel consumption, as you may have to use wider throttle openings to achieve the same speed with lower gearing.
You also need to consider how you use your bike. If you use the bike on motorways the bike will feel more relaxed with higher gearing, and for this type of use I feel that the inazuma will manage a 14 to 15 tooth front sprocket change.
My initial thoughts were that the inazuma was a bit on the high reving side, but have decided not to change the gearing. I value the lazy nature of the bike around the lanes where I only on odd occasions need to drop a gear. I also take a pillion at times and pull a trailer, so for my riding style the standard gearing is the most suitable.
30/04/2018 15:16:19 UTC
Ross said :-
Good point, Rod, there's certainly plenty of Inazuma's running around on standard gearing so it must suit a lot of people. For the type of use I put my bike to the 15t sprocket suits me better and I've never felt the bike can't 'pull' the extra tooth...but then I don't pull a trailer or carry a pillion.
Have you got any more big trips coming up on your Inazuma?
01/05/2018 08:28:03 UTC
Rod said :-
Hi Ross,
I do not have any trips planned as yet this year, but I will at least get down to Cornwall for a long weekend.
01/05/2018 20:23:41 UTC
Rod said :-
Hi Ross,
I do not have any trips planned as yet this year, but I will at least get down to Cornwall for a long weekend.
01/05/2018 20:23:42 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks for all input !!! Some very good points !!!
Been reading a little up also, and googling, yes indeed it seems like a move to 15T front is very common, and sometimes also 16T makes sense,..
And changing to 16T front is not much apart from changing to 39T rear as far as I can calculate in my fuggy red-wine head this late evening :-)
Might try to put it on later like said, after I fully get the standard gearing explored and measured up pon the consumption side. That will take time though, and start-june I will try to make a very long single trip to Norway, I would have liked so much to have the gearing changed BEFORE the trip, but time is running out now, and more important things are to do, just to getting ready for the trip, right next to the MC trip, a car-trip will begin, all have to be ready in few weeks, so guess I will have to delay any sprocket experiments at least until late summer.
My use for the bike will be touring, most single, rarely with pillon, long distances, mountain and flat landscape, motorway and country-roads, not much city,... consumption is very important, places like Lofoten in Norway are very remote locations, I plan on having 5L extra fuel on the bike permantly,...
I will not tell to much about the bike, plan on a write-up later, but all is well ;-) just the gearing to me seems FAR to low, first gear almost useless, should realy be re-located half way up to seccond gear, and 6 gear is reached far to soon, like I miss one or two gears more in the last end.
So its like in gear nr 6 it is possible to do most things that you would normally do in gear nr 4 and 5 ,... and then you miss the ability to step op from nr 6 when you reach it ,... like it all ends to soon
I am fully aware its a small engine, and RPM is needed to a certain degree, but as I feel and read the engine, it would sit much more comfortably at a lower RPM generally, unlees you ALWAYS drive heavy loaded, up-hill, with pillon, and luggage an-mass, against the wind ,... and I don't plan to do so :-) :-)
Thanks again, I leave it until later, and focus on the first longer trip insteadt, luggage solutions, and some planning,..
01/05/2018 21:22:04 UTC
Rod said :-
Hi Henrik,
At 9000rpm the standard gearing gives 75mph in top gear.At 9000rpm with a 15t front sprocket (as Ross uses) gives 80mph.
With a 16t front 9000rpm gives 85.5mph and with 39t rear 9000rpm gives 88.5mph.
As Ross said I think that the 39t will need links removing, and I think the original owner has fitted the 39t and found the gearing to high, and reverted back to original gearing when fitting a new chain.
Ross confirms that a 15t front is OK and the bike pulls it. I think a 16t front or a 39t rear may be too high gearing for the power available.
Hope this helps.
02/05/2018 11:51:23 UTC
Henrik said :-
Thanks Rod, sorry I show a little absence and short reply
I will keep in mind what you said about 39T being to the high side
Will return to it later and go touring as is now
Also some very expensive DID chain right now, and I miss the overly expensive special tool as we speak
For the same reason, and other reasons, I use standard chains normally, and wiil revert to that again soon as possible, being morvfre to work with sprockets as well. Got the standard tools
Rigging up for tour, just fitted my old 52L Kappa topbox on a new plate
Standard el-cheapo Louis tank-bag, what a shame that nice Givi tankbag with easy-mount adaptor ring is so expensive
Maybe I got to violate my credit card once more :-)
03/05/2018 09:04:08 UTC
Alistair said :-
Hey everyone!
Anyone on here still? :-)
I just got a great deal on a 2013 Inazuma which is tidy enough and runs like a dream, it wont be delivered until next week but im thrilled with my new bike! It feels like the bike market has gone crazy in recent years with everyone talking up $10k+ / 100BHP+ / 250KGs + so is nice have myself a cheap and cheerful motorcycle to enjoy.
Im not bothered about going fast, but do intend to go touring (via smaller country roads), does anybody have any recommendations for panniers / luggage options?
Also if somebody has a good screen they would like to suggest that would be great?!
Thanks all!
23/05/2020 17:00:50 UTC
ROD said :-
Hi, Givi do a range of panniers for the Inazuma, and there are pannier options on ebay.
The Inazuma sold well in the Indian market, and lower cost pannier options are available from India, but I am not sure of the shipping costs.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/402124330174?rt=nc&_trkparms=aid%3D1110001%26algo%3DSPL...
23/05/2020 19:24:54 UTC
Henrik said :-
I bought the Sidi Rack System, small boxes, and Sidi Tank-bag, And Use my old 52L Kappa topbox,..
On the picture you can see the setup, now using Colemans Popup tent
Just bought Puigs City Touring Universal windshield, but not mounted and tested yet,..
As said before I am happy about the bike
https://www.motorcycle-exhausts.co.uk/PUIG_CITY_TOURING_Universal_Scooter_Screen...
23/05/2020 23:24:24 UTC
Henrik said :-
Camp, Vaxholm, Stockholm,...
23/05/2020 23:30:57 UTC
Joe Fitz said :-
Alistair, I bought an MRA universal screen - V Flow screen type C. It was about €120 plus the mounting kit - HK for naked bike. Fitting it on the Zuma was a bit of a faff with the clip on bars and no central section of bar to mount it to. The second image shows a 'heath-robinson' solution using expanding bolts, can give you more info if you wane.
25/05/2020 12:36:17 UTC
Joe Fitz said :-
25/05/2020 12:37:35 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I'm liking the expanding bolt solution Joe Fitz. Darn hand things, I have them as bar weights that hold my handguards in place.
25/05/2020 16:24:08 UTC
Alistair said :-
Thanks Rod for the suggestions, im seeing the Givi ones on ebay and also on Henrik's bike, they look great!! :-)
Henrik - very impressive set up you have there! thanks for sharing the pics, would be great to hear how you find the screen once fitted!
Rod & Henrik - how many miles / kms have you covered now on your bikes? Any reliability / mechanical issues? And do you do your own servicing or take to a dealer?
Thanks again for any feedback and tips!
25/05/2020 17:18:13 UTC
said :-
Thank you Joe Fitz! Which screen did you prefer in the end?
25/05/2020 17:20:39 UTC
ROD said :-
Hi Alistair, I owned my Zuma for 18 months and the d.i.y. servicing is easy. I sold the Zuma just over 12 months ago.
25/05/2020 17:37:28 UTC
Joe Fitz said :-
Ive owned the Zuma from new for 18 months. Heinrik's Givi screen is larger and appears to have the same type of fixing as mine it also appears to be cheaper to buy. There is a smaller Puig screen available that looks better and is easier to fit but wouldn't give the same protection. There are several options in the MRA universal screens including a taller one.They come with a curved or V shaped profile over the headlight,I chose the curved version as in the photo.
25/05/2020 21:32:31 UTC
Joe Fitz said :-
Ren
I see you use the same type of velocipede chronometer as me, I cut off the strap fixings and used sale adhesive Velcro th stick it to the screen
25/05/2020 21:37:15 UTC
Henrik said :-
Sorry for telling about my Sidi luggage ,... obviously its Givi ;-)
I will return later about the windshield
I have covered around 15.000 km on the Zuma with me driving the last 11.000 Km
Longest trip 4000 km to lofoten
Seccond longest 2000 km to Stockholm
All is good, i feel better on the bike than on my old GS500
3-4 times I have been driving over 800 Km on one day, no problem
Not one single problem ever, I do the service myself, got the workshop manual
When worn out I might likely get the DL250
25/05/2020 22:07:49 UTC
Alistair said :-
hi Henrik!
Thanks for the additional information, and no worries guessed you meant Givi! :-)
Quite impressive travels you have been on, thanks for sharing! And good to hear about the maintenance / reliability!
Meanwhile im still waiting to have my new bike delivered, the situation has been complicated because I couldn't bring myself to sell the old bike as originally intended (my beloved 2013 honda wave 110 semi auto), hence have been preparing more stage space in the garage in order to have them both! :-)
Looking forward to getting the Inazuma in the next 10 - 14 days however!
Cheers,
07/06/2020 18:01:48 UTC
Alistair said :-
hi Henrik!
Thanks for the additional information, and no worries guessed you meant Givi! :-)
Quite impressive travels you have been on, thanks for sharing! And good to hear about the maintenance / reliability!
Meanwhile im still waiting to have my new bike delivered, the situation has been complicated because I couldn't bring myself to sell the old bike as originally intended (my beloved 2013 honda wave 110 semi auto), hence have been preparing more stage space in the garage in order to have them both! :-)
Looking forward to getting the Inazuma in the next 10 - 14 days however!
Cheers,
07/06/2020 18:01:49 UTC
Alistair said :-
Hey!
So I have my Inazuma and she is running like a dream! The only thing so far is the seat, I find it pretty uncomfortable and would prefer something a little more bench like ie with less slope.
Anybody find any issues / solutions with the seat comfort?
Cheers,
Alistair
22/07/2020 07:00:46 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Hi Alistair. I daresay most of us suffer from the "numb bum" after some time in the saddle. If you come back tomorrow there's a new post coming from Upt'North and what he's done to improve the comfort of the seat on his Pan-Euro. I doubt you'll find a complete solution but there are often improvements to be found.
22/07/2020 08:04:45 UTC
Henrik said :-
I promissed to return about my Puig screen, did put it on today, not mutch testing yet, but seems a keeper
Guess the design fits ,.. will try to integrate with some smart hand-protectors by time
23/07/2020 19:32:04 UTC
Henrik said :-
23/07/2020 19:34:38 UTC
Henrik said :-
23/07/2020 19:44:19 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
It looks the part Henrik but the proof will be in the riding. Let us know how you get on and I do have some splendid designs for smart effective hand guards if you want them? No?
23/07/2020 20:50:31 UTC
Henrik said :-
Before I trew the KLE in the garbadge-container I took off some old Acerbis handguards, I will try with those endeed, as a basis for further experiments, they are slimline, and don't look so bad at all,.. my idea is to extend the puig with some discret, non-clumsy clear DIY plates,.... polycarbonate, acryl, plexi,... whatever,.. some can be mechanically bended, and other can be melded and shaped with a normal heat-pistol. Maybe all the way up to the buttom of the mirrors. Me goal is to still somehow match the design of the puig/bike, and make the the grips less windy/cold, but most of all protect as much possible against rain, both for body when leaning forwards, and for gloves if possible ?
24/07/2020 10:42:51 UTC
Henrik said :-
On another note, I will use the screen to mount some GPS up in the hight, guess I am giving up on Androids as my main navigation, and supply with some normal mc-gps, waterproff by default, and frindly for the use with gloves,...
24/07/2020 10:46:37 UTC
Henrik said :-
As for now the screen lift most air over my head, if I turn my head 4 inches down it will all pass over me, almost, maybe one of the standard extender-plates on top ,.. will have to test more ,.. but its much better than my last screen on the GS500, that was a disaster creating just more turbulence right in the face :-)
408421...
24/07/2020 10:52:39 UTC
Borsuk said :-
I never realised how much wind protection the hand guards on the Himy give until I lifted my left hand off to wave to a passing biker and once clear of the guard the airflow cooled my hand down almost instantly. Bodes well for the winter when it is cold and dry. They are not Barkbusters but Zeta, the local equivalent I think.
Not that I am saying yesterday was hot and sunny, it was but I am not saying it. I don’t want Ren getting a complex, or rather a bigger complex.
24/07/2020 12:15:25 UTC
Henrik said :-
Maybe something like this
There is many diffrent to chose from ,.. more slim line ,.. etc
02/08/2020 09:18:08 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I personally believe the bigger the better Henrik. My only concern with the clear plastic one in the picture is it would likely break if you dropped the bike, maybe something flexible would be better.
03/08/2020 08:50:31 UTC
joecrennan/hotmail said :-
Wide open throttle SAVES fuel.
The ideal vehicle would have a “throttle” controlled gearbox.
Why is it called a throttle?!!!
All motorcycles are under geared. One can always change down.
But Ist is too high, however that is to prevent inadvertent wheelies. And perhaps to fit into the housing as no bike seems more than 3:1 Ist to top.
Litre sports bikes are just 2:1 (93 mph 1st). Only a problem below 10mph when stalling is easy, if one is not concentrating. But I wish I could cruise at 3000rpm/80mph. My cbf125 over revs downhill (80 mph) Rarely admittedly but a tailwind and motorway decline sometimes happens. And if I was going down the Alps or the Rockies I would want speed to offset progress uphill.
bigger front sprocket...
02/05/2021 14:47:51 UTC
Kipperfeet said :-
After riding YBR125's for the best part of 12 years (for commuting purposes), I decided it was time to get a similarly economical mount, but with a tad more oooomph and thus ability to make my "A to B" trips a little easier.
I bought the fully faired GW250F and have found it to be the perfect compromise for economical running and sufficient power for the job.
It's perfect for 30 to 60 zones and will "eventually" reach 75, maybe 80. As for fuel consumption, generally getting around 75 to 80MPG, so no complaints there.
It's a heavy old barge and weighs a tad more than my old shaft driven Honda VT500E would you believe? That said, the weight assists its stability and general steady handling.
The finish is slightly iffy, but it is a Suzuki and ultimately a commuting workhorse which, for me, means all year riding.
I've done a couple of longer (100 mile plus) trips on it, but don't suggest you make a habit of it as it has a commuting saddle, not a touring one.
It does about 8.5mph per 1000 revs on top gear and at maximum torque you get about 55mph and maximum power about 72mph.
Problems...... Has a habit to sometimes change from MPH to KPH without being set that way AND also part of the display disappearing, though still riding operating as usual..... Maybe a loose wire? Mind, it IS a Suzuki and those around long enough will know their engines are as strong as Rambo, with electrics as weak as Mr Puni-verse.
27/01/2023 14:46:30 UTC
ROD¹ said :-
Hi Kipperfeet,
I sold my GW250F four years ago, but at 5'4" I found the Inazuma very comfortable. I even managed over 700 miles in a day on it with no problems.
Enjoy the lnazuma, a great handling bike.
28/01/2023 21:43:29 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I'm glad to hear you're enjoying the Zuma Kipperfeet - it's many years since I wrote this article and the input from folks both here and in real life has been mostly positive. I'm not seeing the Inazuma on Suzuki's UK site at present (nor any other 250ish models) and this disappoints me. I guess in a world where no-one can barely afford to even heat their homes we are all so poor we have to ride 650s and 800s.
29/01/2023 20:33:48 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Kipperfeet, nice to hear people are still enjoying their Inazuma's, at times I still miss my old one even after 3 years and occasionally scrutinize ebay for another one going cheap and right on my doorstep!
Might be worth checking to see if you've got water getting into the instrument panel, either from using a pressure washer or heavy rain! I've heard of a few problems with this and sometimes got condensation forming on the inside of the screen on my un-faired Inazuma, usually after a wash.
30/01/2023 14:37:56 UTC
said :-
01/04/2024 20:54:23 UTC
Rocky said :-
Fuel average 60/Ltr km
01/04/2024 20:55:31 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
What is that Rocky? The engine looks like a generic C50/90/125 type.
Also I hope you mean 60km per litre? That would translate to 170mpg (imperial gallons) which is most impressive.
02/04/2024 07:47:21 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
Ed, I think you're losing the plot.
An economical United 70 (?) motorcycle with proper mudguards, seat and handlebars for just £350.00. That'll never catch on.....how do I know.....on recent observation I can assure you that unless the purchase price starts with a 2 and is followed by 4 other whole numbers it won't sell. Oh yes to complete the purchase the motorcycle must have two cylindrical things hanging out, one on each side and these must get bigger year on year.
£350.00 wouldn't even be enough for the high seat option.
Stupid boy.
Upt.
02/04/2024 08:39:33 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
This is where I'm going wrong innit. You're right it seems people WANT to spend as much as possible rather than "sufficient to meet their needs". Status symbol? Cars have the same issue, a Corsa or Micra will do the shopping, the school run, the days out, and the trip to see Grandma - but people buy massive quasi off roaders or Germanic Executive Transportation Systems.
03/04/2024 08:20:56 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
Firstly, you're never wrong Ed. And don't forget it. You may be mistaken, you may talk utter gibberish, but you're never wrong.
Our recent car purchase was an exercise in restraint and affordability. I appreciate everyones affordability is different, but within our budget, how could we achieve the size, economy and long term sense out of spending money. That "sense" included a long manufacturers warranty and service plan for ongoing affordability and reassurance.
A family member was in a similar position and replaced their vehicle at about the same time. It cost TWICE as much for a vehicle of approximately the same size, it comes with a standard warranty and does about 20 mpg less to the petrol gallon. But it does come with a lovely OOOO badge on the front.
We applied the same thought process to The B and we think we got it right.
But, here's the but. I think we're in a minority, if I look up and down our street it is full of German branded cars, all fairly new, some never seem to go out. They just sit polished on driveways, Posher's, Beemer's, OOOO's, Merc's and new Defenders. That doesn't mean these are necessarily bad purchase options but they probably are, our last Beemer served us well, the cost PA was comparable with "cheaper" brands but mainly because of a pre purchased extended warranty and service plan and a 21% discount for old scuffers.
We recently drove on our beloved motorway systems to North Staffordshire....well we were out of Staffordshire Oatcakes.....the roads are full of stationary expensive behemoths with children playing top end iPads and moaning that the onboard WiFi is too slow.
I blame the cost of living crisis. The real crisis is that we all forgot the value of money. It's all too damn easy IMHO.
Upt.
But what do I know?
03/04/2024 10:09:58 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
My dad and his wife have "retired comfortably", if I could achieve even half their level of retiring comfortably I'll chuffed. They run a car purchased used low mileage and clean, sensible. With their various ailments it has to be comfortable and not too low, fair enough. There's no brand snobbery and it has a small engine as they don't go far these days. My point is they could afford a swish car but they choose not to, they choose that which suits their specific requirements.
As for all the posh cars on your street Upt'. You should come to my street, it's like a breakers out there.
04/04/2024 07:57:42 UTC
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