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Suzuki DL250 V-Strom 6 Month Review
Review Received 13 April 2020
By nab301
There are loads of online reviews of the Suzuki DL 250 V-Strom both written and vlogged which is probably how I came to purchase one just over 6 months ago, helped by the gentle "nagging" of a friend of mine who extols the virtues of smaller bikes (he owns an Inazuma among other 250cc tiddlers). The tank to knee interface on the Inazuma doesn't suit my 6'4" height 33" inside leg that well, so when a V-Strom came up for sale locally I went down for a test ride and it was fine in that area.
Tank knee interface
I'm posting this as a means of providing more detail to the short test that most online reviews provide.
Mine was one year old (first registered in 2018) when I purchased it from the local mainly second hand sales multi dealer with approximately 1500 miles recorded. It was "imported" from Northern Ireland, I'm based in the South (Dublin). It has the optional touring pack fitted - 3 box luggage set, centre stand and hand guards. I can live without hard luggage but find top boxes useful, centre stands are a necessity and hand guards handy... The whole lot apparently costs about £1000 new, I reckon it might make for an easier sale if / when I trade it.
Luggage options
Compared to the usual inexpensive aftermarket top boxes I use on my other bikes, the OE one is quite plush and fully waterproof. The centre stand pivot seems to be well placed and the bike's 180+ kilos roll onto it quite easily .
I find the short bland looking OE screen provides good protection with minimal noise and little buffeting, obviously helmet type can vary this. I currently use an AGV K5S and a Shoei Qwest. I can only assume that shorter riders will have similar results to me?
The digital dash is a first for me on a bike I've owned and while I probably prefer analogue dials it is actually one of the better ones out there of those that I've test ridden. It has the usual Suzuki twin trips which I find very useful, a quite accurate petrol gauge and fuel consumption indicator and is switchable between metric and imperial (speed, odometer and petrol consumption) which for me living in Euroland is very useful. There is also a 12v power socket provided which is something I've been wishing for over the years but haven't actually used yet… An external air temperature indicator is the only thing it's really missing.
Power socket on left.(12v 36W)
The gear change is the usual slick Suzuki affair (although the only other Suzuki I've owned was a MK2 600 Bandit) and I personally enjoy flicking up and down the gears to keep the revvy low powered engine on the boil. It redlines at 10500 rpm. I've set the adjustable "redline" (actually a white light) to 9000 rpm but realistically while the bike will do 80 odd mph I tend to limit revs over long distances to between 6 and 7.5 k, which means 60 odd mph /100kph (I fitted a one tooth less rear sprocket soon after purchase and my Inazuma riding friend reckons it's perfect).
If you're downsizing from a larger capacity bike it feels quite slow especially in terms of kick in the pants acceleration. Yet surprisingly I've ended up using this bike for long haul rather than short commutes. Why you might ask...? I guess I just find the bike comfortable ergonomically, but also I think the lower speeds are psychologically and physiologically less draining over a long day and I guess that makes up for not being able to blast past slower moving traffic.
In terms of distance I've covered 400 to 500 miles in longish days on this bike around Ireland (and why not? I used to do similar miles on my old Supa 5 Em Zed 250 back in the early 80's, the only vehicle I ever got done for speeding on!) while generally keeping off motorways. Signposted speed limits on these roads are usually either 50mph or 60mph and I tend to stick to these limits when safe to do so but generally don't exceed them. The speedo is the usual 10% optimistic, calibrated against a sat nav so I take this into consideration too.
The smiles with this bike in general for me come at the petrol station. A range of up to 300 miles on a bike with a 17 odd litre tank capacity is not to be sniffed at, or filling up at the start of a day with 200 miles on the trip and only requiring just over 10 litres. Petrol consumption when I first got the bike was averaging between 88 and 92 mpg without doing economy runs. More recently I found it dropping at times to nearer 70mpg. A little concerned I analysed my riding habits and found that riding in spring gales/storms into headwinds appeared to be the culprit. Keeping below 60mph in those conditions helped that.
Currently the bike has approx 7 k miles recorded. Oil consumption is nil between changes, I've adjusted the chain once and the OE rear tyre still has over 3mm tread depth. I haven't actually checked the valve clearances yet (I guess they'll be the same as the Inazuma?) and the plugs are due for change so I'll do that shortly. I did actually purchase a genuine Suzuki service CD from a local dealer but neither of us have been able to get it to unlock its innermost secrets fully. The side panels remove easily with a combination of rubber grommets and one screw. I'm not sure yet how much more stuff I'll have to remove to lift the valve cover which AFAIK has screw adjustment valve clearances.
Plastics removed
Handling at the front is a little undersprung and under damped in my opinion. So much so that when braking hard on bumpy / washboard effect roads as the bike slows to a stop the ABS can trigger momentarily. This allows the bike to roll forward unexpectedly as you approach for example a stop line at a junction. These same junctions are no problem to any of my non ABS bikes...
Reading the owner's manual there is a comment about ABS not shortening stopping distances. Unfortunately it's not switchable and I'm reluctant to pull the fuse. Obviously I've had to adjust my riding style to suit the ABS which is kind of silly to say the least. In general though the brakes are adequate and work well. The rear has plenty of feedback for use during low speed manoeuvres.
The OE "Road Winner" made in Thailand tyres are OK I guess. They remind me in looks of Continental ContiForce tyres of which I was not a fan of. Everything is fine in dry conditions, on wet or loose surfaces (although I've never taken the bike "off road") the front feels a little remote and likely to tuck although it never has. Whether this is the tyres or weight bias of the bike I'm not sure but I have a set of Metzeler Roadtec 01 tyres ready to fit when needed. It'll be interesting to compare.
For a 250 this bike is probably one of the physically largest available, reinforced by the fact that I get loads of acknowledgement in the form of waves and leg shakes from Charlie and Ewan types. They obviously aren't aware that I'm on a mere 250cc bike! Coupled with what I consider way oversize tyres for the power output (rear is a 140 and my Y2k Honda CB500 only had a 130 for its nearly 60bhp output) the bike at least has much better road presence than say my skinny tyred CB125F and following vehicles never seem to crowd me too much. Whereas they ignore me on the little Honda when riding at the indicated speed limit.
The only question I have is would a "sensibly ridden" 500cc middleweight CB500X say, be any more expensive to run while having more get me out of danger power output if required? And would I have the self discipline not to use the extra power? The reason I ask this is I do have a larger capacity bike in my garage (no, I'm not talking about my Enfield Bullet 500cc) and recently on a rare spin I rode down a slip road onto a local motorway, glanced at the speedo thinking that's fine and then realised this is the only bike I have with an MPH speedo and I was riding in KPH mode...
Good points on the Suzuki are low day to day running costs, great tank range, good lights (LED rear brake and tail light, I'm not sure how you carry spares for that?) and dashboard, general big bike feel (assuming that's what you want) and build quality generally seems good. I haven't carried a pillion but the seat is spacious and an underseat tool kit is supplied.
Bad points are some corrosion appearing on the exhaust downpipes, paint seems quite thin on the wheels although not a problem at the moment and constantly being asked by other bikers when stopped- "What engine is in that?"
Corroded down pipes with an oily rag look for compulsory hibernation (that'll be fun when I fire it up again...). Sump guard removed.
Nigel.
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Reader's Comments
Upt'North said :-
Nigel.
It looks a nice bike. It certainly has plenty of presence with the luggage on.
Enjoy.
Upt'North.
20/04/2020 18:07:33 UTC
ROD said :-
Very balanced review Nigel.
I (as a few others on here) owned an Inazuma which shares the 250 engine with the DL.
I was happy with my 250 for the first 9 months, but I then felt that the lack of power and the high revving engine were restricting my riding too much.
If I had the space for two bikes I would have hung on the the 250, but it had to make way for a bike with a bit more power.
The valves will need regular maintenance, but are easy to check and adjust.
Your point about using more power on a lager capacity bike is a good one. I never had a problem towing my trailer with the Inazuma. At 45 - 50 mph it was very happy and it seemed fast enough, but on my current bike I am finding it very difficult to stick to the 50 mph speed limit for trailers.
20/04/2020 18:41:58 UTC
nab301 said :-
@ Rod , the high revving low powered engine can feel restrictive but it's really just a mindset , a bit like an Enfield and actually with similar outright power although the Enfield spends most of it's time in the 3 to 4k rpm zone. Motorways are possible on both but not what they're about . Whether like you I'll lose interest is largely academic at the moment and even if I do I'll probably be glad under the present circumstances to have an economical reliable bike to ride . I do ride a 125 too so the 250 isn't a huge culture shock.
I must have missed one paragraph in the review , so will mention here that the front brake lever is span adjustable and the all important L/h switchgear is conventional in that the horn button (thankfully) is below the indicator switch unlike modern Hondas, parp! parp!
Nigel
21/04/2020 09:56:44 UTC
Ross said :-
Thanks for that, Nigel, I'm another former Inazuma owner and was tempted by the small Strom but was worried it was 'too' similar to what I had...not that I regret having the Inazuma, I had 5 thoroughly enjoyable years with it, but in an effort to model myself on my hero Ren, went for a Honda CB500X...if only I could ride it at the moment! If the gearing is the same on your DL I can recommend going up one tooth on the front sprocket, that was the best mod' I did!
21/04/2020 12:02:29 UTC
Bogger said :-
I like proper reviews like this. The bike magazines have their own agendas and some, not all, of the fools on YouTube either bore me or wind me up, or both. Keep up the good work.
Bogger
21/04/2020 22:44:05 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I agree nab301, most of dealing with "a lack of power" is the mindset. I have the 11bhp (probably about 9 now) 125 and the 47bhp 500. It is scientifically demonstrable that the 500 is faster but because I've been back on 125s for over 10 years now I have adjusted just fine. I've learned not to worry about overtaking unless it's a tractor or cyclist, I've learned to drop a gear and give it large uphill and I've no issue at all about other road users overtaking (safely).
This leads to your point in the review. When you adjust to the notion that your vehicle is not the "...est" and adjust your riding the ride can be much calmer and therefore relaxing. This makes long journeys a pleasant, calming and chilled affair - usually.
This has lead me to apply the same principle to the 500. It's rare I "give it large" on that too and as such I enjoy riding both of them. Of course I do like to play from time to time when appropriate, but then there's nothing like riding a 125 flat out screaming up to a corner, hooning it round and winding it up again. Then you crest a hill, head down on the tank, maxed out in 4th and you see PC Plod with his speed gun pointing at you - you panic. Ahh! Fear not because flat out in 4th on a 125 is only 55mph.
22/04/2020 07:17:58 UTC
Bob said :-
A very well balanced view on the bike - thanks.
I'm 6'2" but with a 34" inseam so seat/peg/tank ergos are vital for me.
I've got five KLX250s, I got into KLXs a couple of years ago and at first I spent some months talking myself out them "they're not fast enough" "they're not big enough" etc.. and I spent time finding things for the bike to fail at (steep hills for example), so that I could give myself an excuse to sell it again - but it didn't fail.
I'm now averaging 11K-12K a year, entirely on KLX250's - I've had 1200s in the past an I've never ridden so many miles in a year as I'm doing now.
I agree with you about the strange zen-like relaxed state that riding long distance on a 250 gives - I absolutely love bogging along the motorway on my KLX at 65-70MPH to get to Wales, the lakes or Scotland. Big bikes tire me out.
I really like the look of the VStrom and desperately want one, but I won't allow myself to spend the money and I must have genuine off road ability in my bikes.
22/04/2020 10:25:36 UTC
nab301 said :-
@ Ren , yes, chin on the tank stuff, I have tried it on my CB125F but strangely it didn't make any difference , I have since added a screen and and on a still day the top speed is reached more quickly ... in egg timer terms anyway
Chin on tank back in the early 80's , EM Zed 250 flat out , no mirrors , an unmarked 2.8 Granada eased along side me I'd been nabbed! 76mph in a world of Petrol shortages and an eco friendly blanket speed limit of 55mph ( Iran Iraq war ?)
@ Bob , luckily KLx's don't appear to be popular in my part of the world but you did send me off searching! ( they appear to have more power and less weight than the V strom too) , I have tried a 300x for size though and it's good, seems to have nearly 40 hp on paper and redlines at 11k rpm but like the KLX it has tubed tyres and i'm not too fussy about offroad ability although 11k rpm and off road don't seem to be compatible in my mind.
Nigel
22/04/2020 20:24:23 UTC
Bob said :-
The KLX redlines at just under 11K, but unlike the X300 the KLX makes good torque from 5K to 9K so you don't need to go any higher. Indeed I have only been up to redline once to see what it was like and there's nothing there, it falls off a cliff at 9.5K
On the X300 you just have to wring the snot out of it the whole time. 60MPH is 7K revs, I can't cope with that.
22/04/2020 22:45:12 UTC
nab301 said :-
Based on a CBF 250 I had recently I think small capacity singles generally have more "grunt". 60mph at 7k rpm is more or less V Strom territory on standard gearing but the 300 X has on paper a lot more top end. What's fuel economy like on the KLX ?
Nigel
22/04/2020 23:28:29 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I think Kwak missed a trick with the X300. They should have used the 250 single motor with grunt rather than the 300 motor that really really does need working hard to get it going. With the 250 motor it could have been a little lighter too. The 400 twin motor in the Z400/Ninja 400 is much better but of course a bit heavier.
23/04/2020 08:30:53 UTC
Bob said :-
The KLX routinely does 80 MPG on a mix of motorways and trail riding.
I don't baby it, on the motorway we're 65 to 70 and on the A roads I maintain 60 where road conditions allow.
I was really excited when I saw the X300 was coming out, then I saw the weight figure, then the poor 6" suspension travel, then I had a ride on one.
As an aside I also test rode a BWM G310GS and found it to be a truly dreadful and miserable device. I would rather walk.
23/04/2020 09:12:51 UTC
Bob said :-
To be fair to the X300, for some reason Kawasaki fitted a rear sprocket 3 teeth bigger than on the ninja 300, I think that was a mistake. People have changed the gearing but then the ECU complains because the ABS ring speed doesn't match to the gear and the O/P sprocket speed (the bike has a gear indicator).
To be fair to the G310GS, no hang on that was fair - it feels like what it is. A consumer product in the style of a motorcycle, designed and built by people who have apparently never ridden a motorcycle.
23/04/2020 09:22:27 UTC
Pocketpete said :-
I still think fondly of my inazuma. It was very fast but was still the most comfortable ride I have ever had. The Seat was so comfy I could for hours before sore bum syndrome set in.
I they had done this model when I was looking. That's why I opted for the cb500. This would have been ideal for me.
Nice review I enjoyed it. Dova video of the tappets being done that's always interesting.
24/04/2020 08:31:33 UTC
ROD said :-
OK.. I can see the attraction of smaller lighter bikes!
https://www.visordown.com/news/general/watch-graham-jarvis-show-enduro-skills-th...
24/04/2020 17:37:44 UTC
Upt'North said :-
I hope it was his shed?!?
Upt'North.
24/04/2020 18:00:12 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I'm not sure the shed was designed to hold a person let along a person and bike at speed. I wouldn't like to try it on a push iron let alone a lightweight motorcycle. Mind you I probably wouldn't make it over the lawnmower... on foot.
24/04/2020 18:09:20 UTC
Upt'North said :-
Motorcycles, Hallucinogenic Drugs and Alcohol are not a good combination. Usually.
Upt'North.
24/04/2020 18:34:54 UTC
nab301 said :-
Pretty amazing what he does with that bike I thought, given that it does weigh 100 odd kgs , he's doing trials bike antics on it and trials bikes weigh in at under 70kg!
Nigel
26/04/2020 14:58:48 UTC
Paulcocteau said :-
I’ve owned mine for about 4 weeks now and concur with most of what you say. It’s really comfortable for me, particularly with a clip on Chinese made screen extender.
After riding for years on mid capacity bikes, I currently also have a Fazer 6, I find the transition to less horsepower to not be a real problem unless using motorways and even then I’m happy to stick to 65-70mph with still enough power to overtake most traffic if necessary.
I’ve ridden it on mild green lanes here in Wales and on parts of the Ridgeway and find it fine for 200 mile days of back roads and byways. I’m now looking to sell the Fazer and get another smaller capacity bike, maybe a CG or Super Cub.
Paul
14/08/2020 20:48:14 UTC
nab301 said :-
They are a nice bike , mine was declared off road for a couple of months and when I used it for the first time recently it felt like my favourite armchair after months on a 125 . Riding it more sympathetically than I had been previously has produced an indicated 35km/l petrol consumption (nearly the magical 100mpg) I'm not sure whether I want to sever my big bike ties completely , it's nice to be able to roll open the throttle even if only occasionally for effortless overtakes!
Nigel
22/08/2020 11:42:12 UTC
Kerry said :-
Very good review.i would be interested in your spec when the second hands start coming through.
13/10/2020 12:33:07 UTC
Kerry said :-
In fact Nigel could you mention it here whenever you decide to sell. It might find a good home down here in the kingdom.
Tony
20/10/2020 18:44:34 UTC
nab301 said :-
The Kingdom , unfortunately I didn't make it down that way this year.... I'm unlikely to be selling anytime soon unless these damned restrictions are lifted but will let you know if I do!!
Nigel
26/10/2020 18:17:07 UTC
Kerry said :-
Sound thanks. I'm in no urgent hurry. Still too new for my budget at the moment anyway. Plus winter and damn 5klm restrictions. Also you are really taking great care off it so it will be as goog as new. Saw a 2018 on d/deal for sale by a dealer and u could see the paint was all flaked off back wheel after only @5000 & had chain a sprocket replaced. Suzuki were never noted for their paint but to me this was ridiculous. And a chain set at such low miles ....pure neglect.
Tony.
27/10/2020 00:31:15 UTC
Kerry said :-
Sound thanks. I'm in no urgent hurry. Still too new for my budget at the moment anyway. Plus winter and damn 5klm restrictions. Also you are really taking great care off it so it will be as goog as new. Saw a 2018 on d/deal for sale by a dealer and u could see the paint was all flaked off back wheel after only @5000 & had chain a sprocket replaced. Suzuki were never noted for their paint but to me this was ridiculous. And a chain set at such low miles ....pure neglect.
Tony.
27/10/2020 12:23:51 UTC
nab301 said :-
Currently commuting on my Vstrom so took the opportunity this weekend to fit a new set or tyres (Metzeler Roadtec 01) I purchased back in Dec 2019.... The rear had 2mm on it back then currently at 1.5mm. I chucked the bike around a few local roundabouts and didn't fall off, initial feelings are better than OE tyres but time will tell I guess.
Paint is starting to fall off the rear wheel but ok for the moment , and the swingarm seems to be manufactured out of paper thin steel !
Nigel
07/03/2021 13:23:45 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi Nab301, I think the swingarm is the same on the Inazuma as your V-Strom, might be worth checking out this thread on the Inazuma forum about drain holes in the swingarm and water ingress!
https://www.inazuma250.com/index.php/topic,271.70.html
https://www.inazuma250.com/index.php/topic,271.70.html...
07/03/2021 17:46:57 UTC
nab301 said :-
Thanks Ross, the R/H side of the swing arm had signs of water ingress/egress but I never thought to investigate where the water was entering. I pumped it full of ACF 50 though ! Luckily , unlike my little Honda , no sign of rust....
A few more Km's covered on the new tyres on warmer roads , they are so much better than the OE tyres . They can be run right to the edge without trying.
Nigel
07/03/2021 19:30:27 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
It's a fine idea to spray something sticky and oily inside the swingarm, or indeed any bits of metal that can't be easily accessed. Most Hondas have a drain hole or at least gap in the adjuster plates but these can all too easily be clogged up with dirt leaving a puddle inside the swingarm. Condensation can also cause problems. Ideally the entire motorcycle should be dipped annually in a large vat of used engine oil and left for a week to allow the oil to get everywhere.
Does anyone know where I could find a motorcycle sized vat of used engine oil... into which I could dip a motorcycle?
I suspect ACF50 is a more sensible solution.
08/03/2021 09:35:53 UTC
crofty said :-
Hi Nigel
Having just bought a 250 v strom I am wondering where you got 46t rear sprocket ? I would ideally just fit a 15t front sprocket but not having any luck finding those either. Good to know the Roadtec 01 are an improvement
06/04/2021 18:32:25 UTC
nab301 said :-
If you look at the JT sprockets website under DL 250 they only list 47t for this application . The prefix is JTR823 followed by the number of teeth . The 46T version is listed for many applications including the Inazuma which was where I looked originally. I just ordered the part number off parts counterof a local multi dealer bike shop back in the days before Brexit and Covid ( Ireland based). I haven't had any problems with speedo or ABS but I'm sure someone on here ( Bob ?) reckoned it might especially if you change the gearing significantly. ( That was in relation to a KLX250)
Nigel
http://www.jtsprockets.com/catalogue/model/s1897/...
06/04/2021 21:17:58 UTC
said :-
Thanks Nigel, I see if i can get one ordered.
06/04/2021 22:24:10 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Where does the DL250 pick up it's speed from? I've had a quick look online and I'm not finding a satisfactory answer. If it's from the engine then the gear change will make a difference, if it's from either wheel then not.
07/04/2021 11:15:56 UTC
fatowl said :-
it appear to take the speed from a sensor on the gearbox sprocket
29/04/2021 16:45:29 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Cheers fatowl, in which case then changing the gearing would affect the speedometer reading.
29/04/2021 19:35:40 UTC
fatowl said :-
Sorry, I sold you a pup. I thought they'd carried the sensor over from the Inazuma, but no. The speed sensor is the ABS sensor in the rear wheel. I am trying to change the gearing myself, and bought a 16 tooth front sprocket - but the chain is too short, so will need to be replaced. If you wish, I will let you know how this goes.
06/05/2021 15:46:44 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
fatowl - that's good news then innit? You won't need to recalibrate the speedo which is way harder than fitting a new chain. Yeah, do let us know the results. Ooooh thinking on - be sure using the old chain that the chain will go around the front sprocket without fouling the engine casings or anything else. The bigger sprocket with the chain on might be rather too close for comfort.
07/05/2021 19:08:48 UTC
Fatowl said :-
I got a 16 tooth gearbox sprocket, but the chain is not long enough to accomodate it!,so I had to get a smaller rear sprocket, which took ages to arrive. I went for 41 teeth. The chain needed shortening, but I couldn't get a new split link anywhere, so I couldn't shorten it. It must be a "funny" chain. Anyway, it's all on now, and I have to say it's transformed the bike. It's what the gearing should be as standard. I now get 57mph @ 6000 rpm. It still pulls well through the gears, and still trickles along at walking speed in 1st. I'm getting 94mpg, which I think is the same as before.
23/06/2021 21:22:03 UTC
crofty said :-
Hi Fatowl can i ask where you got your sprockets from ?
24/06/2021 11:43:04 UTC
fatowl said :-
I got a JTR823.41 I got it through my local dealer, which in retrospect was a mistake - I should have got it online, it would have been quicker. I had to replace the chain, because it needed shortening, and I couldn't get a new link for the standard chain (except perhaps from Suzuki MRP £39 !) I ended up getting a new X-ring chain, not too bothered, as reports on the standard chain seem to say it's poor quality and doesn't last long.
24/06/2021 13:25:54 UTC
crofty said :-
Thanks for info, it was really the front sprocket i was interested in. I see JTs website lists 15/16t sprockets for the GZ250 Marauder, but can't see anything for the DL or GW other than 14t. Does your 16t sprocket have the rubber cushioning on it?
Agree about the chain, mine is at 7k and won't last much longer,when I get the sprockets I will replace it with a good DID o ring chain too.
24/06/2021 23:07:48 UTC
Fatowl said :-
I don't think it had rubber dampers, but I'll check. However, there's not a lot of clearance with a 16 tooth gearbox sprocket, so I was quite happy to go with standard gearbox, and 41 rear.
27/06/2021 20:43:33 UTC
crofty said :-
Thanks, I've ordered a 15t front and will get a 46t rear, hopefully that will keep things even.
be interested to see how things go with 41t rear sprocket
27/06/2021 22:24:41 UTC
fatowl said :-
I have just checked, and I can confirm, my 16 tooth gbox sprocket did/does NOT have rubber bits on.
28/06/2021 13:51:48 UTC
crofty said :-
Thanks fatowl,The one I have ordered says made in Japan and claims to come from Germany.
https://de.aliexpress.com/item/32328758783.html?detailNewVersion=&categoryId=200000247
thttps://www.gearingcommander.com/ The 14x41 looks good, drop the revs at 70mph by nearly a 1000.
28/06/2021 15:11:32 UTC
fatowl said :-
Yes, the revs drop is very good. I'm getting 57 (speedo) at 6,000 rpm - much better than before. First gear is still very low, so there really isn't any downside. BTW, I find the speedo is about 7-8% out (over reads).
You may want to check your steering head bearings - mine were 1/2 a turn too tight. I don't suppose there's any grease in there either, but that's for anther time. I also put some oil on the throttle cables and the clutch cable - they were bone dry.
BTW, if anyone has a manual for the DL250 - is there anything over and oil + filter change, tappets, and a general tighten up of fasteners, to be done in the 500 miles service? I have seen reports that some bikes allegedly need something doing to the ECU(?) to let it rev better after the run-in period. I can't believe it, but I'd hate to miss it, if it does exist.
28/06/2021 20:01:50 UTC
crofty said :-
The 7/8% over reads is about right according to my pal who has alot of experience with the Inazuma. Thanks for the heads up on the headset and dry cables.
I did an oil/filter change today at 7148. The V strom forum says that the Inazuma 250 forum has a workshop manual to download as they share much of the same mechanicals.
28/06/2021 20:13:41 UTC
Fatowl said :-
Yes, thanks, I've found the Inazuma one, but I wondered if the DL250 had any differences, as the motor has a few differences.
I really like that it's so easy to work on.
30/06/2021 12:46:43 UTC
crofty said :-
got the 15t sprockets at last and fitted today. Out tomorrow to see if it feels better.
22/07/2021 11:15:29 UTC
P Stevens said :-
Suzuki dl250 a little low geared but good mpg and very nice to ride every day
22/07/2021 20:19:32 UTC
crofty said :-
big run up in the highlands today, 15t front made a noticeable difference. 61mph indicated at 7000rpm.should be down to 6500
when i fit the 46t rear. just got to get the seat sorted and it will make a great small tourer.
23/07/2021 21:42:47 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
That's a lovely but hell of a remote place, Rannoch train station. Did you stop in the little cafe for a brew?
24/07/2021 09:07:59 UTC
crofty said :-
Just my luck Ren it was Friday their closing day, but i have been before and had a cake or two.
24/07/2021 15:13:24 UTC
nab301 said :-
@Crofty , I only recently removed my front sprocket cover for cleaning purposes and noticed there was no "chain catcher" (most other bikes I've owned have a U shaped metal plate around the cover ) Was there one fitted to your DL250?
@fatowl I have a Suzuki service CD but unfortunately I cannot get it to "Autorun" so I have to open each file individually , so far, nothing found on your ECU query. From an owners handbook point of view the dash flashes up oil change due at a short interval for the first oil change , but this and the rev warning light ( not rev limiter) are user adjustable , maybe someone somewhere in the past got confused and it ended up as an urban myth?
Nigel
25/07/2021 19:47:14 UTC
said :-
@nab301, No there doesn't appear to be one, just the plastic cover over the sprocket. I never thought about it when changing the sprocket or looking at the cover.
25/07/2021 19:54:39 UTC
nab301 said :-
Thanks for that Crofty
Nigel
26/07/2021 20:47:19 UTC
Crofty said :-
Started on the rear sprockets swop today. Sprocket carrier bearing was really rough and could barely turn. so all play stopped till new bearing arrives. photo shows new set up on top of picture. 15x46, bottom is standard 14x47.
08/08/2021 13:22:45 UTC
Crofty said :-
sprocket carrier bearing
08/08/2021 13:23:44 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
That's a lovely looking sprocket carrier bearing. I dunno why but my CBF125 has always eaten it's sprocket carrier bearings with regular aplomb. I now keep a stock of them ready to roll (sic).
09/08/2021 13:12:06 UTC
Crofty said :-
Yes Ren, a bit premature a 7k i would have thought, but may have enthusiastically pressure washed in that area by the previous owner.
If as I suspect your cbf125 is made in China same as the v strom 250 I'll put it down to cheap Chinese bearings and get a few in stock.
09/08/2021 13:57:00 UTC
nab301 said :-
@Crofty , you have me worried now ! I'm sure I checked that bearing when I replaced the tyres but I'm wondering should I recheck it ! Do you know what the bearing number is please! Like Ren I always carry an assortment but just in case it's an odd one it will allow me to replace it if required.
Nigel
09/08/2021 19:25:06 UTC
Crofty said :-
To the best of my knowledge Nigel the are all 2RS DDU
the sprocket carrier size is 25mm x 62mm x 17mm
2 x front bearing size are 15mm x 42mm x 13mm
2x rears apart from the sprocket carrier are 17mm x 47mm x 14mm
Wemoto in the UK have them all in stock but companies like Bearingboys/Simply Bearings will probably have them cheaper.
I have ordered a complete set. The two other rear bearings feel ok when I checked them.
I intend to remove the front wheel to check them as well.
My chain is pretty worn with tight spots etc. I am off the opinion that the consumables are cheap. ie tyres, chains, bearings, battery etc and I like the bike enough to spend a few hundred quid replacing them all in due coarse.
09/08/2021 22:57:03 UTC
nab301 said :-
Thanks Crofty , I think the sprocket carrier translates to 6305 which I don't have but I can get locally.
Nigel
10/08/2021 14:05:22 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I cannot comment on the 250 Strom but my CBF125 eats sprocket carrier bearings - no matter the brand I use. SKF, FAG, NSK etc have all been chewed up by overwhelming and brutal raw power of that monstrous motor's output. I have to guess there's something wrong either with my particular machine or the actual design.
I hope the Strom's bearing is as easy to replace as the CBF's
10/08/2021 19:23:53 UTC
Crofty said :-
Nigel here is a pic of the bearing info which came today.
Ren the bearing is in the freezer till fitting tomorrow, looks pretty straightforward, I'll post a pic or two
10/08/2021 20:36:46 UTC
Crofty said :-
got the new bearing fitted and new chain/sprocket set up as well. Hardest bit was getting the rear wheel back in.
I fitted a clip/split link instead of riveting which i cant do, its only 25hp so hopefully that will be fine
11/08/2021 15:04:37 UTC
Crofty said :-
11/08/2021 15:05:33 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Good show Crofty. I've never had problems when I used a split link on the CB500X.
11/08/2021 16:53:05 UTC
nab301 said :-
I only just got around to checking the sprocket bearing on mine . Before I dismantled, for whatever reason, I grabbed the sprocket and found I could detect very slight movement , as if it was rubber mounted , the movement was visible between the carrier and the rear wheel and also in the oil seal area of the sprocket carrier .
Dismantling revealed no problems , the bearing is well greased , smooth , no discernible play. There is absolutely no rear wheel play , The double diameter spacer doesn't exit the sprocket bearing on the sprocket side , so is this where the play is ? That bush has discernible rock on the axle shaft but my pea sized brain is struggling to comprehend where the play actually is , and whether it's a problem or there by "design".
The other (single diameter) spacer in the photo contacts the sprocket side of the sprocket bearing , and the double diameter spacer contacts the other side of the sprocket bearing and then contacts the wheel bearing .
Crofty, any chance you could grab your rear sprocket please! The photo also reveals some wear in the cush drive rubbers ( less than 20k km's recorded) not sure if this is related ..
Nigel
05/09/2021 12:27:35 UTC
nab301 said :-
Quote "Hardest bit was getting the rear wheel back in."
I struggled this time too , so after a second failed attempt , I found some threaded bar( but anything the same diameter will do) similar to the axle diameter and cut a short length . I slid the the rear caliper onto the swing arm locating "rail" and inserted the threaded bar to locate the caliper carrier. I made sure the brake pads were apart , fitted the spacers etc to the wheel , rolled the wheel into the swing arm , hooked on the chain, timber under the tyre to bring it up to the correct height while ensuring that the brake disc fitted between the pads , slide in the axle , tap of a rubber hammer on the axle to knock out the temporary bit of threaded bar , and wheel was fitted in 30 seconds.
Nigel
05/09/2021 12:40:44 UTC
Crofty said :-
Hi Nigel
I will check my rear wheel/sprocket for play tomorrow, since I fitted the new sprocket carrier bearing all has been well. My cush drive rubbers were nice and tight after 7k so that is all good.
05/09/2021 21:20:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Regarding the double diameter spacer. This spacer and the others cannot be a tight fit otherwise it would be a struggle to slide the spindle through them. Their movement should be controlled by the torque on the wheel spindle nut being "tight as flip". This should take up any wobble. Should... if there is an excessive amount of play this would imply a replacement is required. The only way these should wear though is if the spacers are spinning on the spindle and this would be reflected by scoring on the spindle, surely. Don't call me Shirley.
06/09/2021 08:22:34 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I'll link to the video and post I created when Ian Soady suggested using a thin temporary spindle as you did nab301.
https://bikesandtravels.com/biker.aspx?ride=847...
06/09/2021 08:26:13 UTC
nab301 said :-
Thanks for that Ren , my comments were more related to a disc brake rear wheel , and steadying the caliper / carrier while rolling the wheel / brake disc into position (pads in caliper) .
My rear wheel is torqued to the recommended 65nm and there is absolutely no play in the rear wheel , the bike handles perfectly ,I just can't comprehend where / how the sprocket carrier is moving. I'm pretty sure it's been like this from new . I had a Honda Vigor where the axle spacer regularly seized to the axle over a short period of time and in fact when I first removed the wheel there were signs on the swing arm that a previous owner / mechanic had to cut through the axle with an angle grinder to remove the wheel. See photo.
Nigel
06/09/2021 13:11:43 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Niiiiiiiiiiiice job. It's good to see I'm not the only qualified mechanic equipped with only a big hammer and an angle grinder. Oooooooh lufferly.
06/09/2021 16:00:08 UTC
Crofty said :-
Nigel/Ren my wheel is rock solid and agree about the double dia spacer it was a nice snug push fit into the sprocket carrier/bearing and as you say it is torqued against the swinging arm. My sprocket/carrier assy on the other hand does move a little, i am putting this down as "float" between the cush drive rubbers.they were in good condition when I checked them on the bearing assy. The bike runs fine, i have done a couple of big runs since fitting and it all feels fine. Hope this helps
06/09/2021 16:37:32 UTC
nab301 said :-
Thanks Crofty , sounds like what I've detected , I shall carry on regardless and may even order some cush drive rubbers spacers etc, or even seek professional advice! . I see there's a couple of bikes in stock locally so I'll see if I can check them out too.
Nigel.
07/09/2021 09:43:21 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
The sprocket carrier is expected to float - this is the movement that allows the cush to, errrr, cushion the transmission. Ideally it should only move a very small amount rotationally but it's not perfect and a tiny amount of lateral movement seems to be expected.
I can just see you at the bike shop nab301, on your knees wibble wobbling the rear sprockets on a variety of machines. Do report back your findings.
07/09/2021 10:14:19 UTC
Crofty said :-
I too will be interested in your findings on other bikes. i have another v strom it is a 19 my 650 and the rear sprocket on that is supertight. its done 8k so about the same but its a Jap built machine and i think probably has better cush drive rubbers.
Anyway of to Ireland with the little strom tomorrow so I'll post a few pictures.
07/09/2021 19:17:00 UTC
Crofty said :-
A few pics of the Irish trip. My pal on his Inazuma came so it was a 250s all round. We crossed by Cairnryan to Belfast, spent a couple of days slowly travelling down to Co Kerry where we had booked a nice wee house in Kenmare for the week.
Kenmare & Glengarriff are my favourite villages in the southwest, great location for all the best of the Wild Atlantic Way and the Peninsula's. We rode all the usual suspects Ring of Kerry, Beara Peninsula, Healy pass Dunloe Gap etc etc.
We also found a new to us pass " The Priest's Leap, great route going from near Kenmare across to Co Cork and then doubling back across the mountains to Co Kerry at kilgarvan. The weather was mixed, usually sunny out at the coast but drizzley on the passes, sort of what you'd expect with all that Atlantic moisture rolling in. It was warm in the evening's with everyone sitting outside eating & drinking with lots of tourists and good craic. We took about a week coming home with some great nights in Dublin, Wales and Yorkshire. Both Chinese 250s went well never missed a beat and regularly gave mpg in the high 80s.
25/09/2021 18:33:38 UTC
Crofty said :-
25/09/2021 18:34:25 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:35:08 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:35:56 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:36:29 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:37:21 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:38:10 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:38:39 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:40:41 UTC
said :-
25/09/2021 18:41:38 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
Looks like a fabulous trip Crofty! I have a friend moving to The Republic of Ireland thus providing a base for exploration. As such I read this and viewed your images with interest. There is much for me to see on the West of Ireland.
Is that you in the piccy or your Inazuma pal?
27/09/2021 10:18:12 UTC
nab301 said :-
September has been pretty good weather wise this year which helps!. I've been on most of those routes myself at some time but Priest's leap is a new one to me, I'll have to investigate next time I'm in the South West.
Did you travel on the Dursey Island cable car ? I have been down that way in the past but decided against a trip suspended on a cable , even though statistically the trip down on two wheels was probably more risky.
Where was the river crossing ? There's one nearer me in Wicklow which can change in hours from passable to having to wait for a day till the water level subsides ( happened to a friend of mine) See photo with vehicles stuck on the "wrong side " after overnight rain
Nigel
27/09/2021 12:30:38 UTC
Crofty said :-
Ren, thats me enjoying a Guinness, lucky you having a pal moving there, hope you get alot of touring with him.
Nigel, I've been to the Dursey Island cable car station a couple of times but never fancied the trip,as a lifelong skier I have had plenty of cable car trips so the novelty has worn off. The ford was over a trib of the River Sheen but isn't strictly on the route, we just fancied it, it goes to a guest house on the route.Yours looks scary.
About 6.5km from Kenmare on the N71 south is a left turn for the Bonane Heritage Park and Priest's Leap.Incidentally the N71 From Glengarrif to Killarney must be some of the best 60km of National route in Ireland, I have done the Wild Atlantic Way a couple of times which uses the coast missing it out. map of the Priest's Leap circuit included
27/09/2021 13:08:34 UTC
Crofty said :-
27/09/2021 13:09:56 UTC
Rev. Mick! said :-
Crofty,
I live near Dingle so will have to give that loop a blast on the Innova.
27/09/2021 22:40:51 UTC
Crofty said :-
Perfect for the Innova Mick, look forward to the pictures.
28/09/2021 08:13:04 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
We know what you look like now Crofty... there's no escape!!
That Priest's Leap road looks like my kinda road. Rev. Mick! I shall look forward to your report and as previously stated, some images. I can actually view it on Google Street View but that's no real replacement for proper piccies.
https://www.google.com/maps/@51.7945539,-9.4724202,3a,75y,141.62h,95.47t/data=!3...
28/09/2021 09:26:13 UTC
alF said :-
Hello,
I recently purchased a second hand DL250 in Lithuania and it is great for a beginner as I am.
One upgrade I am planning is to change the sprockets. I have a few questions:
I am leaning towards the following combinations.
15x46 or 15x45 or 16x47
1. Which ones of the above don't require a different chain?
2. I can't find 15 in Lithuania, what do you recommend/ebay, ali?
3. Is 16 recommended? I read some concerns regarding the chain potentially touching that area around the gearbox.
Thank you
10/05/2022 13:35:28 UTC
Crofty said :-
I went for a 15t x 46t, quite like it, sits at 90kph at 6500 rpm now. it makes max torq at 6500 so think that's quite a good good place to cruise at. found it difficult getting a 15t sprocket but got one on aliexpress, here's the link
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32328758783.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.2c765b9bWeiC43&algo_pvid=9e7ee782-6b98-4892-a61c-c0fd99071270&algo_exp_id=9e7ee782-6b98-4892-a61c-c0fd99071270-0&pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2259116079768%22%7D&pdp_npi=2%40dis%21GBP%21%2115.46%21%21%21%21%21%402100bde716522101238038873ebc46%2159116079768%21sea
10/05/2022 20:28:35 UTC
Crofty said :-
that last link didn't work too well
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32328758783.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.2c765b9bWeiC43&algo_pvid=9e7ee782-6b98-4892-a61c-c0fd99071270&algo_exp_id=9e7ee782-6b98-4892-a61c-c0fd99071270-0&pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2259116079768%22%7D&pdp_npi=2%40dis%21GBP%21%2115.46%21%21%21%21%21%402100bde716522101238038873ebc46%2159116079768%21sea
10/05/2022 20:31:01 UTC
alF said :-
@Crofty
Thank you very much.
Ali it is then. Hope the quality of this part is decent :)
11/05/2022 12:27:24 UTC
Ross said :-
Hi alF, I went for the 15T from Aliexpress for my Inazuma when I had it...best mod' I made to the bike. Looking at Crofty's link I had the same one with the red plastic damper and 'made in Japan' stamped on it, no problems with quality, it lasted just as long as the OEM sprockets...the chain was a different matter, it was rubbish!
11/05/2022 15:17:44 UTC
alF said :-
@Ross
Thanks a lot
12/05/2022 08:45:59 UTC
alF said :-
Hello,
Please excuse my multiple posts.
I'm wondering if you made any valve clearance inspections and adjustments so far?
According to the maintenance intervals it is advised to do it every 5000 km. My bike has 20000km and I have no previous record to whether or not the previous owner did the inspection and adjustment. Most services I've asked recommend a check every 10000km if you don't over rev the engine too much, which is not really the case for this quite revvy small 250cc :)
Thank you
13/05/2022 08:29:11 UTC
ROD¹ said :-
I would stick to the 5000km adjustment.
The valve clearance adjustment is easy,being screw and locknut adjustment.
13/05/2022 16:05:46 UTC
Henrik said :-
I find 5000 km redicules, did the valves a two times on the similar Inazuma, don't remember the exact numbers, but they was so well within specs, even after first 5000, that I decided just to do it for every 7-10.000 km. I find the procedure tiresome withe the need til take the bike far to much in pieces. Also I think that the claimed 5.000 km interval is provoking low, and maybe just a way to make more money on services. I find it absurd that I would not even be able to make my longest trips to Norway from DK, without a service on the trip. If it really was true that 5000 km intervals was needed, I would call the engine a direct fail-construction, that should have never been on market. But again, I think this is all about something else.
15/05/2022 08:44:01 UTC
nab301 said :-
I did the first valve clearance on my bike at 10k kms see link below , currently approx 24k kms recorded with no further checks carried out yet. My advice is check the clearances now and depending on the results there will probably be no need to chech every 5k km.
Nigel
https://bikesandtravels.com/biker.aspx?ride=7382...
15/05/2022 09:34:18 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
From my own experience I'd strongly suggest keeping to the service intervals at the start of the bike's life, sort of like the first 20k miles or 30k kilometres. Once the engine has settled in you hopefully will notice the valves won't need adjusting much when you check them. If this is the case I'd be happy to "back off" how often the valves are done.
That's just the valve check! Definitely keep up with the oil and filter changes.
16/05/2022 08:59:43 UTC
alF said :-
if someone needs the manual in English and the parts catalogue, send me an email to: morfreethlib@protonmail.ch
22/06/2022 18:32:16 UTC
alF said :-
if someone needs the manual in English and the parts catalogue, send me an email to: morfreethlib@protonmail.ch
22/06/2022 18:32:17 UTC
alF said :-
I did the conversion to 15x46...a completely new bike.
I also changed the sprocket bearing, but one thing I wasn't sure, what is the torque for the sprocket bolts? I did 35nm, but not sure if that is ok?
Thanks
13/07/2022 18:16:04 UTC
nab301 said :-
@ aLF , My Dl250 CD manual refuses to run so I can't quote from that but the Inazuma manual I have states 49N-m for the rear sprocket nut.
Earlier in this thread I mentioned wear in the cush drive rubbers and play in the rear sprocket. I only got around to replacing these items recently. The new double diameter spacer is a tighter fit in the sprocket carrier bearing and after fitting the new cush rubbers , overall, the sprocket is more rigid but still with a small amount of perceptible play....
Nigel
27/07/2022 13:34:20 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
nab301 - I'm not familiar with the setup on the 250 Strom's cush drive setup - is it a 3 bearing setup? That is 2 regular bearings in the wheel as you'd expect plus a third bearing in the centre of the sprocket carrier?
27/07/2022 16:49:10 UTC
alF said :-
While changing the sprockets and chain, the professional advice was to change the rubbers. I confirm I have play (front-back movement and no lateral movement) between the sprocket and the wheel because the rubbers are not tight enough, it seems they worn out over time.
Regarding the bearings, the back wheel has 3 bearings (2 for the wheel and 1 for the sprocket). We changed the sprocket bearing and we were surprised to see the sprocket bearing was not fully sealed (meaning the interior side was completely open but still well greased and surely this was the original factory bearing). We replaced it with a fully sealed one. The advice I got multiple times, DO NOT pressure wash the bike!
I didn't quite understand what are the risks of riding the bike like this...?
30/07/2022 19:56:22 UTC
alF said :-
different/weird request: I need a tent for my moto travels. I found one at a reasonable price for quality in the UK but unfortunately the taxation policy for commercial shipping to the EU is simply ridiculously high. Any chance somebody on this forum can receive the parcel to their address in the UK (I'd buy the tent and have it shipped to you) and then you'd repost it non-commercially to EU? I'd pay for everything
thank you and apologies for this question.
15/10/2022 06:00:26 UTC
said :-
02/11/2022 22:00:18 UTC
said :-
05/11/2022 16:20:50 UTC
Crofty said :-
Farewell to the DL250
04/10/2023 11:40:10 UTC
Crofty said :-
Farewell to the DL250 wee strom. After two and a half years and 16,000 miles I fancied a change. Its been a great wee bike and it never let me down. I did quite a lot of tours in the UK and Ireland. After I changed the gearing it was a reasonable motorway performer and on one occasion returning to Scotland from Wales at 70mph most of the way without missing a beat. Mostly though it was used on the smaller A and B roads of the UK. It has been to Ireland twice, a lovely 2 week tour of Wales. A couple of tours in the Dales and many times to the NC500 and Highlands and usually returning mpg in the low nineties. Maintenance was straightforward mostly thanks to Nab310 posts.
I changed the oil and filter every 2500 miles, the valves were done twice the first time the exhaust valves were a bit tight after adjustment the final check I did at 20k they hadn’t moved. New tyres fitted at 16k, they still had a some wear left but I got a fantastic deal on a pair of Continentals so I changed them. Air filter at 18k was easy as unlike its bigger brothers the tank doesn’t need completely removed. So cheap to run and easy to maintain, why did I let it go ? well I always felt a cb500x could compete as a cheap to run tourer so that is what replaced it, so we’ll see how it goes.
04/10/2023 11:41:06 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
Crofty....
Say it ain't so!
Although you can't argue against a 500X, I spose.
We need pictures.
Upt.
04/10/2023 13:17:33 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
That second piccie is gorgeooooouuuuuuuus. I'm sure I've been there....but where blummin is it?
Age you know.
Upt.
04/10/2023 13:20:42 UTC
Crofty said :-
Hi Upt
its that wee turn off before you get to Gairloch. nice hotel up there called Badachro, thats the anchorage.
Here's the 500x going to run it together with the my 650 v strom as a kind of comparison.
04/10/2023 14:54:41 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
I knew it was familiar; it's a pretty 500X Crofty me o'd mucka. I'm thinking smaller in stature to the STrom perhaps.
Another picture of that area is never a hardship. What blummin roads.
Upt.
04/10/2023 16:28:58 UTC
Crofty said :-
Ah the road down to Kinlochewe, from the viewpoint with a telephoto ? heres one with my phone
04/10/2023 17:08:16 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
I'm a little surprised that you didn't let Ed design some luggage and hand guards for the 500X Crofty.
He's a dab hand.
Upt.
04/10/2023 18:53:15 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
ARGH! I hate you lot. Them Highland pictures got me aching all over, I so want to be there.
So the WeeStrom's gone and you've gotten a CB500X in it's place huh. I shall be interested to hear your thoughts regarding the CB500x v the WeeStrom (250) AND the MediumStrom (650).
04/10/2023 19:58:07 UTC
Crofty said :-
Ren I'll write a wee review comparing them in a few months time.
Meanwhile here's a few more V Strom highland pics to keep you going
04/10/2023 20:24:53 UTC
Crofty said :-
04/10/2023 20:25:38 UTC
said :-
Crofty...
04/10/2023 20:26:24 UTC
nab301 said :-
I still have my DL250 after over 5 yrs. Coming up due for a tyre change at 20k miles , Metzeler Roadtec 01 have covered 12500 miles now with a little less than 2mm on the rear. Tending to tramline a bit , more than likely the worn tyres but I'll probably check the head bearings too when I get around to replacing the tyres just in case..
Nigel
14/09/2024 16:56:48 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
12500 miles!? That's good for a rear. It helps the 250 being a bit lighter but are you riding delicately nab301 or are the roadtec a long lasting tyre?
14/09/2024 21:48:55 UTC
nab301 said :-
Ren , the DL250 is similar weight to the 500x and I don't ride it delicately but it has no tyre shredding torque , so I can't really describe the Roadtecs as a long lasting tyre and the front is pretty well shot too although I generally change in pairs.
I have a new set purchased nearly a year ago but miscalculated the wear rate!.
Nigel
18/09/2024 16:36:40 UTC
Ren - The Ed¹ said :-
I'll take a look at the roadtec 01 prices and reviews, I'm always on the hunt for the perfect tyre. I want race tyre grip with truck tyre longevity and small car tyre prices. Ho well, I do like to dream.
19/09/2024 06:44:56 UTC
John said :-
Hi all,
Expat living in China here and had this bike since 2018. Could anyone point me to a workshop manual? My owners manual is in Chinese but I did manage to get an English pdf online but no look finding a workshop / service manual :(
Unfortunately service here is very poor, they aren't interested in changing brake oil, coolant etc, Its basically a case of "come back when it breaks" or when they do replace components they use the cheapest fake product they can find.
Any help would be most appreciated!
Many thanks
22/10/2024 15:48:10 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
I haven't seen a service manual for the 250 yet.
But they about for the earlier road models. See attached if it works. It didn't work but go on manualslib and search on GW250.
It might be worthwhile checking the UK Vstrom owners site too, someone on there may be able to help with general queries.
Good luck.
Upt.
22/10/2024 16:20:33 UTC
Upt'North ¹ said :-
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/815691/Suzuki-Gw250.html...
22/10/2024 16:22:25 UTC
John said :-
Awesome, thanks for the link!
23/10/2024 12:47:50 UTC
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