I’ve tested a lot of bikes over the years, some exotic, some not so much, and the Gixxer falls into the latter category. But who can afford, or even wants, a piece of rolling two-wheeled art when they are starting their riding journey? Because let's be honest, there’s a good chance I’ll get a bit scratched and banged up on your journey.
Suzuki knows this and also knows that many rookie riders are just counting down the days until they can ditch their LAMS bike for something more powerful or exotic, and that's why they've introduced the Gixxer 250, a learner-approved naked machine that looks and performs great at a very reasonable price.
The Gixxer 250 is propelled by a fuel-injected, 249cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine churning out an alleged 19.8kW (26.7hp) of power and 22.2Nm torque, that is snugly fitted into a steel cradle frame. The power on offer is ample to seize the green light holeshot and outpace the four-wheeled masses, and the Gixxer will happily cruise along comfortably between 90 and 100km/h without risking a valve expulsion from the head.
Weight can be an important consideration on a bike aimed at new riders, and the Gixxer weighs in at a claimed 156kg dripping wet. Add to this a very accessible 795mm seat height, and you have a ride that will suit all but the shortest pilots.
Suspension is low-tech but perfectly adequate for the job. In fact, I was pretty impressed with how the non-adjustable 41mm conventional fork and preload-adjustable monoshock handled my weight and rather enthusiastic riding style. Both ends provide a smooth yet firm ride without excessive harshness, and you have to be pushing quite hard to upset the Gixxer's cornering posture – I know this to be certain because I pushed!
Braking duties are handled by Brembo’s entry-level brand, Bybre, and like the suspension, it is perfectly adequate for the performance the Gixxer can bring to bear.
Now there’s nothing particularly remarkable about the equipment on offer. While it’s solidly built and performs as it should, everything is as you would expect on an entry-level bike. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of finish you get. The paintwork is flawless, the decal mint, and overall, the Gixxer has a quality feel and look to it. The Gixxer 250 is produced in Suzuki’s Indian manufacturing plant, which is why it can offer the entry-level machine at the very tidy price of just $6490 ride away. It’s important to note that Suzuki doesn’t just farm out production to some shonky local manufacturer; the Gixxers are built in a Suzuki facility, to Suzuki’s exact standards, so I wouldn’t be concerned about the quality of the product.
Suzuki has delivered a package that combines solid engine performance, competent and predictable handling, in a learner-friendly package that is absolutely on point when it comes to price. And that’s what Suzuki intended to do, and by gosh, I reckon they succeeded. If you're after a LAMS-approved ride or even a cheap get-to-work whip that won't leave your wallet crying for mercy, the Gixxer 250 is certainly worth a look.
About the Author
Pete Vorst, aka 'Vorsty,' has been immersed in the world of motorcycles since he was just a pup. A dedicated enthusiast, he lives and breathes two-wheelers and has had a career in the motorcycle industry that spans more than two decades. Vorsty has contributed his expertise to various facets of the motorcycle industry, including the retail, wholesale, and rider training sectors and has spent the last handful of years as the Road Test Editor for Australian Motorcycle News, providing him with the opportunity to ride and assess a multitude of bikes at home and abroad.
Pete ‘Vorsty’ Vorst has lived and breathed motorcycles since he was just a pup. Vorsty’s career in the motorcycle industry spans more than two decades, with the last handful of years spent working as the Road Test Editor for Australian Motorcycle News.
