Suzuki VStrom 250SX Review - A little gem! 2023 (69)

Suzuki VStrom 250SX. In this video, I take a look at Suzuki’s 2023 lightweight VStrom. I put it through its paces on the bitumen and in the dirt, test the brakes and try it from 0-100. I also see what it’s like with a passenger, and have a close look at the bike. Thanks for watching, please like and subscribe. Cheers, Steve.
*** Note- In this video I say the valve adjustment is nut & screw, this was information given to me by a motorcycle mechanic. This information was incorrect, it is actually the shim type valve adjustment. Access is still quite simple but replacement shims will be required if needed.

[@herifury1302]

This is how u do a motorcycle review ladies & gentlemen

[@not_007either]

This is downright the best review of V-Strom 250SX on the internet. Great job.

[@standupmoto]

Wow, thanks! glad you enjoyed it.

[@Abhilash_Sarkar]

I 2nd that.

[@rafaelmolina123]

Got mine today. Yellow. I freaking love it. I had big bikes before but I love this one

[@standupmoto]

Congratulations, enjoy your new ride. 👍

[@green_genie]

Jeez mate that dig at the Mrs around the 14:20 mark was brutal 😂

[@standupmoto]

Trust me, I’ve been paying for it ever since!

[@ashaquascapes9385]

Very nicely explained and great visuals. I have to say this is the BEST and most comprehensive video on the vstrom 250 sx. Much love from Malaysia. We are still patiently waiting for this model to be launched in our country.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks Ash glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for the kind words, hopefully this model will not be too far away for you in Malaysia. They really are a fine fun motorcycle, it’s been quite a while since doing this review and I’m happy to say the baby Strom is still running fine with no issues. 🙏🏻

[@mr6602]

Thanks, exactly the review I have been searching for Steve. I went and test rode the same bike same colour on Saturday, I was blown away how good it is for a 250cc. Gearing is great, Gear changes are smooth and exact and neutral is easy to find every time, Engine is smooth, couldn't fault it. I collect mine this coming Saturday. There is nothing that comes close for the price in New Zealand. Everything else is at least another $3,000 more expensive. Available here in Orange, Black and Yellow. Well done Suzuki! (and Steve).

[@standupmoto]

Great glad you enjoyed it, didn’t realise there was a black version. Yes it’s pretty hard to go past for the price, enjoy 👍

[@krishnasathya5272]

But in India it's over priced of min 20% , hence failing to catch-up the sales , eventhough it's a great bike for us in India . I do own this bike , I feel the engine is superior. Great for us on highway than off road in India .

[@mr6602]

@@standupmoto Picked up the bike on Saturday, I am in the running in phase, saying that I clocked up 260km yesterday and it is a pleasure to ride. Very responsive and great cornering. Returning 2.4L / 100km fuel consumption which is excellent. I think this bike is a winner.

[@standupmoto]

@@mr6602 2.4 !!! Fantastic fuel economy, you must be being very careful with your right hand. Enjoy & ride safe, oh quick question- how are you finding the bars?

[@mr6602]

@standupmoto 2.4L, yes carefully running in, not exceeding 5000rmp or 80km as per the manual. The Bars are ok. Look a bit budget. I have ordered some risers, 30mm up and 20mm back. I would like to get something of a little better quality later but don't think it will make much difference. I recon drop the bike and those bars will bend. Still cannot go wrong though for the price.

[@christopherspentgaris2369]

this is hands down the best review of this motorcycle on the net...so much detail,its rare to find a review thats covers everything...

[@standupmoto]

Cheers thanks for the kind words, I hope the information helps 👍

[@christopherspentgaris2369]

@@standupmoto yep it sure did....i purchased a yellow one,awaiting delivery...cheerz..

[@standupmoto]

@@christopherspentgaris2369 Well done, would love to get your feedback after a little time owning this little gem.

[@AR-bm2xg]

Best Review on the Baby Strom on the internet. You sir, have shown all the mighty capabilities of this gem of a bike clearly and concisely. I am owning this and have ridden it for 5000kms, mostly with a pillion in the broken roads of the city and some highways. It has excelled and impresses me everyday as a "complete" all-rounder with zero compromises. Suzuki did not market this bike that much here in India, might be they are primarily looking to export and is currently massively overlooked here. And reviewers here also are suprficial and lack skill. Hope these overseas reviews do justice to this gem of a bike.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks very much for the kind words 🙏🏻 It’s great to hear from an owner with kilometers on the bike and so happy with it. Lovely to hear from the country it was made, cheers from Aus.

[@krishnasathya5272]

True 👍

[@saurabh9516]

Correct brother ppl here are ignoring it calling it expensive but they don't see the details. Great review this channel did justice to the bike

[@simpletonballsack]

Great to see Suzuki yellow. It must have been from growing up in the 70's and 80's but I always reckon chook chasers should be yellow (Suzuki RM and PE), blue (Yamaha IT), red (Honda XL) or green (Kawasaki KX etc).

[@standupmoto]

Totally agree 👍

[@TheJjfw10]

finally a great Aussie review of this awesome little bike

[@standupmoto]

Cheers mat glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@santoshwhy2943]

No review ever done like this for this bike ..I like it ❤️

[@standupmoto]

Glad you liked it

[@frankseymour4162]

Brilliant review. Thank you for including the handlebar information. Also thank you for the information about the windscreen. Really great.

[@standupmoto]

Glad it was helpful! The small strom is a pleasure to ride.Cheers 👍

[@markgoulding6262]

Great review. Nice to see Adelaide in the footage. I seriously want one of these. Thanks for showing it to me.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@simob7862]

Fantastic review I have had a lot of trouble getting some feedback about this bike. I really appreciate your review. I also have some difficulty at the dealership here trying to upsell me to a bigger bike. I already have a Harley Iron 883 2017 model, I am wanting to get a good little cost effective mini adventure bike to possibly start up a men’s group that includes riding and bushwalking, this bike really fits.

[@standupmoto]

Great, glad you enjoyed it. The baby Strom is a great easy to own economical bike. It comes with no surprises, what do I mean by that? There’s no quirks, no power bands etc. It’s just a fun little to own, oh it’s also quite with the standard exhaust so you won’t annoy anyone with the noise.

[@jaysontindoy3354]

Just bought this bike. Thanks for the review sir

[@standupmoto]

My pleasure, glad you enjoyed it. Ride safe👍

[@andrewgills1306]

Great review! I bought my Baby Strom about 6 weeks ago and am in love. I’ve been riding for 25 years but am a small guy so all the road-trails and adv bikes on the Aussie market are too tall or too heavy for me (my rule is that if I can’t pick it up solo, I can’t take it on adventures). Been fanging on the highways and taken some off-road time. Heading for my first camping trip with it next weekend. Can’t wait. Posting this comment to say I agree with the review in case anyone is still wondering whether this bike is that good.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks Andrew, yes mate the more I ride this bike the more I want to. Like your rule by the way, this bike actually fell over on the stand while I was doing the review. There was no straining, yelling, grunting- just stood her up and got with what I was doing. Enjoy that first adventure on the Strom, would love some feedback. Ride safe Cheers 👍

[@smellbag]

Excellent thorough review thx.

[@standupmoto]

Very welcome, thank you 👍

[@saurabh08061998]

Nice review! Good city roads to rides on! It seems to be a very good bike!! Watched from start to end without a skip! Great review!! Thanks!

[@standupmoto]

🙏🏻 Thank you, yes the bike has been extremely reliable and economical.

[@findingneutral]

Hands down most comprehensive bike review I've seen to date. Subscribed.

[@standupmoto]

Welcome aboard! & thanks 👍

[@ridingtheislandswithharro6581]

Great review thanks very much as i’ve watched lots of reviews but this is clearly the best 🙏

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad you liked it.

[@counselorchandru]

You just earned a sub! Brilliant work. Thank you!

[@standupmoto]

Welcome aboard! & thanks.

[@SneakyFresh]

Looking at getting one of these in a month or so for my first bike. Loved the video!

[@standupmoto]

Good choice! Thanks and glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers

[@phillips2568]

Brilliant review. I have had one for a year or so - couldn't fault a thing!

[@standupmoto]

Great stuff, they are a terrific little bike 👍

[@petergee7539]

From Kenya..well done, a very thorough and excellent review. Superb detail.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it 🙏🏻

[@user-yd1tw1rx4j]

Excellent review, one of the best (of any bike) I have seen from watching hundreds of different bike videos. Well done. Regards Pete.

[@standupmoto]

Cheers Pete, thanks 👍

[@brianrobertson639]

Many thanks for taking the time to do a thorough review on the baby. Will be the ideal bike for my son when he is off his P’s. Have him on a Honda cb125e until then. Super review. Cheers Brian

[@standupmoto]

Thanks Brian, yes I think it would be the perfect next step. FYI this one is still going very well with no problems since doing this review.

[@mantarayal]

This is an excellent and friendly, relaxing, informative review to watch. Thanks Steve. New Kiwi sub. Wow. Motorbike parking. How very advanced!! Wish we had more here. Motorbikes should be one of the planet's saviours.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the video, I’m actually going across the ditch not too far down the track to explore some of your home turf. We may have the motorcycle parking areas but the Kiwis are light years ahead of us in the EV department, in one state here they actually want to tax you for driving an EV! Cheers mate and welcome to the channel 👍

[@otakawhe]

Really good, informative review.

[@standupmoto]

Thankyou 👍

[@turdbomitch9007]

Lane splitting or filtering is legal in NZ to. Love it, makes the point of owning a wee bike for commuting just that much better plus here you can travel 15kph faster than the traffic you are filtering through. I mean if you can't lane split on your commute you might as well be sitting in a car in traffic with the rest of the herd!

[@sasokuzmanovski985]

Great review, thank you Steve. I am returning rider and just bought vstrom 250sx. Very happy...👍

[@standupmoto]

Great to hear! Don’t forget if you find the seat a little tall at first you can buy a lower version very well priced directly from the Suzuki dealer. Enjoy your new machine & ride safe. Cheers.

[@sasokuzmanovski985]

@standupmoto Thank you Steve. I think will be all right with the seat, I am 6ft tall. 👍

[@sanatandharma4435]

You have done an excellent review. Thank you! I am getting a little confused over my next purchase and this review has helped me a lot! I love the RE Himalayan but it seems heavy, and I am test riding the Voge rally 300 next week, but it's rather tall! I went to the Suzuki dealer last week and my wife bought a scooter, but I did not see this bike. When we go to collect her scooter I will be asking for this. Thank you for such a good review. Take care.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad it was helpful, I would certainly if possible test ride the SX. From there you can compare it with the the others on your short list, all the best.

[@baixiaochun4736]

This review makes me even more excited to get the bike. I can't wait though. I should say this is the best review of this bike so far. Hats off to you, mate. I'm subscribing for this. Definitely.

[@standupmoto]

Cheers mate thanks glad you enjoyed it, to make you feel even better I’ve done a lot more time on it since the review. I absolutely love it & no problems at all, this little bike is a gem & crazy good on fuel. 👍 (welcome to the channel)

[@baixiaochun4736]

@@standupmoto That's reassuring, indeed. I need to get myself one.

[@HockeyWorld-ox1ee]

Awesome review, thumbs up

[@standupmoto]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@captainshankarretd5095]

You deserve the whole cute little bike for free because you just sold a dozen straight up ……stole our hearts too in India

[@standupmoto]

🙏🏻 Thank you.

[@A861967]

Great review Suzuki has always been a manufacturer that has a characteristic quality on all the bikes. Personally I prefer a longer wheel base, but this 250 looks great. Cheers from Adelaide 😊

[@standupmoto]

Cheers mate glad you enjoyed it, she’s a ripper little machine that is just so much fun to ride.👍

[@user-bp2cl2gz8n]

This clip is exactly the one I want to see before buying it. thanks I am from Taiwan , by the way 😀

[@standupmoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@catmate8358]

Okay, before watching this video I didn't even know this bike existed, now I want one :D

[@standupmoto]

It certainly is a great little bike, it’s my go to nowadays just because it’s so easy live with.👍

[@davidmureithi1741]

I enjoyed this review

[@standupmoto]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks.

[@sinner_ra]

Has to be the most comprehensive review of 250 SX on KZbin! Thank you 👍

[@standupmoto]

Glad you liked it! thanks.

[@sinner_ra]

@@standupmoto: I have a couple of followup questions: 1) Does the ride quality become better with the pillion on board ? Did you fiddle with the pre load setting ? 2) Is there an engine clatter heard at higher RPMs? 3) Also regarding the vibrations at higher revvs, do you feel more on the footpegs ?

[@standupmoto]

@@sinner_ra Hello no I didn’t move the pre load, mainly because I didn’t need to, there was very little travel lost. The motor remains smooth right through to redline. Not at all and I have removed the rubbers in the pegs also. Cheers.

[@sinner_ra]

@@standupmoto thanks! That was quite helpful. Would you be able to share the stock preload setting that comes from the factory? Is it at the 3rd step?

[@juanes60]

What a good review, thank you very much. I just subscribed to your channel!

[@standupmoto]

Awesome, thank you! Welcome to the channel.

[@andrewdoran6410]

Agree with all your points. Glad I purchased one. It' s city manners are impeccable and looking forward to getting off the tarmac after break in period. It won't be as crazy as my Huski TE449 but that's not what I need. Re the bark busters.... yep, first thing I changed.

[@standupmoto]

Have fun! Economy & fun riding is what this bike is all about 👍 cheers.

[@danharrington2976]

Wonderful review. Hope the 250 comes to the U.S. soon

[@standupmoto]

Hi yes hopefully, I have emailed Suzuki asking what countries they will be releasing it but have had no response yet.

[@SourabhAil]

Great Review ! I am from India and I have this motorcycle. I love riding it.

[@standupmoto]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@jackwhite2422]

I like that orange paint reminds me of Suzuki in the 70’s TM400. I live in California you can legally split traffic here. I’d buy one of these but there no imported, looks like a great little bike for around town and fire roads on weekends.

[@standupmoto]

Yes would suit that purpose well, not sure if they will make it stateside, hopefully so. Thanks for the comment and yes remember the TM well, a bit of a rocket in the day.

[@gammash]

Very nicely explained 🙏

[@standupmoto]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it 👍🙏🏻

[@gideonleroux7519]

Awesome review, I bought mine busy running it in just love it !

[@standupmoto]

Great to hear! Would welcome anything you think I may have missed, ride safe.

[@csr2atlasbestsetups35]

Thank you for the video ❤❤❤

[@standupmoto]

You're welcome 😊 thanks for watching.

[@samuelkilik8233]

gona buy this bike next month

[@MiJi_29]

You're the only youtuber that reviewing the bike to make me impressed of this bike, tbh

[@standupmoto]

🙏🏻 Thank you.

[@richardorosso7377]

Nice review! I have the mechanically identical Suzuki Gixxer 250 street bike on which VStrom was developed tempted to get one of these as well now.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad you enjoyed it, we don’t have the Gixxer in Aus (I think) but have heard it’s the same motor.

[@damo010]

Great review, thanks :-)

[@standupmoto]

Glad it was helpful! Cheers

[@NoiseLess1980]

Good and very informative review. Thanks

[@standupmoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danielmcgrath9369]

After riding many bikes for over fourty years,I am so pleased with my 2021 Gsxr,now after watching your excellent vid,I am going to buy a new Strom250,Red in colour(Red has more go,lol.)Ride safe,have fun.

[@standupmoto]

Great to hear! and also good to hear you’ve had a good run out of your Gsxr which I believe has the same motor ( the Gsxr is not in Aus) enjoy your new VStrom when you get it, they are a little ripper. cheers.

[@robjones2852]

Another very well crafted, informative review--thanks Steve. I'm still trying to decide between this Suzuki and the Himalayan. I will be interested to see how they compare for ease of service and service intervals. The sound of the Himmy and its torquey-tractor motor is a big plus for me but I wish it was 20 or 30 kg lighter, like the Suzuki. I have a much beloved 650 V-Strom which I really like for road touring but I don't feel confident with it on the dirt--and gravel on a 217kg bike is, sadly, way beyond my skill level. I would like something that allows me to carefully punt along on gravel roads and slowly tractor through tighter off-road tracks.

[@standupmoto]

Yes, all valid concerns for sure. Both are very good bikes, after reviewing both bikes I can say the Suzuki is noticeably lighter. I like them both but in my case I thought the 250 suited better.

[@SillyWalker1949]

I concur. After years with Vstroms (weighing over 220 kgs), Ive retired with the baby V-strom (wgt 160 kgs). Great bike! Top speed - it does 140 kmph easily at 10,000 (red line), and 150 kmph at 11,000 (a wee bit of valve bounce). It take 14 secs to reach 140 kmph, and another 10 sec to 150 kmph.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for sharing! 👍

[@jonathanmellish4439]

I was quite excited watching this review so went onto the UK website only to find its not available in the UK.

[@standupmoto]

Hi, yes I have had this comment several times from viewers in the UK. Hopefully they will be there not too far down the track, they are a great all rounder at a reasonable cost and cheap to run. Cheers from Aus.

[@wildflower7574]

great review

[@standupmoto]

Thank you, hopefully it helps 👍 cheers.

[@iiturregui]

As always, excellent review. Keep it up mate.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks, glad you liked it. It was certainly a fun bike to review.

[@iiturregui]

You need to do a garage update video. I think a lost track of how many bikes you got. Interested in knowing how the bimmers are doing

[@standupmoto]

@@iiturregui Yes I thought of doing that but mmmm I’m not sure. A mate has taken over the 07 Police Rt as I’m looking to get a 2017 version at auction. 👍

[@iiturregui]

@@standupmotohat about the k1600?

[@standupmoto]

@@iiturregui No she’s gone also, was a great bike but she who must be obeyed preferred riding on the Goldwing. I really do miss the power, handling and brakes of the GT but all good things must come to an end eventually. Believe or not it’s been replaced with a 52 Norton Dominator running a Tillbrook sidecar, yeah yeah I know but what can I say 🤪

[@pieterbrink504]

Hi Steve, I bought a Baby Strom based on your review. What a great bike? Light and nimble and not holding back. Sold my Honda CB500X a month ago in anticipation for this one. Very impressed at this stage and 35.4 km/l 😎

[@standupmoto]

Great stuff Pieter, 35.4 on a new tight motor is very good. When it’s run in this little bike loves to rev and the power is very impressive for such a small motor. When I say little it actually looks quite big but doesn’t feel big to ride, what colour did you get? Still loving mine, cheers.

[@pieterbrink504]

Contemplating to replace front with Shinko 804 for a bit of sand and peepebbles, what do you think? I run a TKC 80 with same patern on my NC750X front with great results.

[@standupmoto]

@@pieterbrink504 Yes probably a good move, the std is pretty good I might add but probably a good idea if your going to put a bit heavier oil in the forks. I’d try first playing around with pressures a bit first, I was pleasantly surprised with its ability.

[@souviksaha6695]

Why would you get a single cylinder engine when you already had a CB500X? The 500X definitely has a better engine. Any specific reasons for you to sell the CB500X?

[@jimdoolan2277]

Very good review had my one down here in new Zealand for a while great little bike did put full aftermarket exhaust on it made a big difference and sounds good got 5000 kms on it have also got the DE 800 traded my suzuki 1050xt on it very nice bike but do like riding the little 250 Cheers 👍🏻

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for the info and glad you enjoyed the review. May I ask what exhaust system you used?

[@jimdoolan2277]

Morning got a suzuki 250 Gizzer full exhaust from China about $120 new Zealand young guy at suzuki put it on had to cut and wield two parts to make it fit made a good job and really happy with it the Gizzer has the same engine in it great little bike 800 pretty cool to Cheers 👍🏻 🍻

[@standupmoto]

@@jimdoolan2277 Cheers Jim.

[@andrewgreen6060]

This is by far the best review of this bike I've seen, and answers several questions for me the others don't address. Well done! All I have to do now is decide if I want to let my beloved XT250 go in exchange for one of these...

[@standupmoto]

Thanks mate glad it was helpful, hard call the XT is a great bike. I had one and it never let down but it just started getting a bit old and costing me a bit in maintenance. Good luck with your decision 👍

[@andrewgreen6060]

@@standupmoto A question if I may about seat height: I'm 5' 9" and the 835mm seat height should be OK. But I finally got a chance to sit on one this week (no chance of a test ride) and I found the seat hard, and with the stiff suspension there was very little sag when I put my weight on the bike. The result was that I felt it was too tall. I know you can buy a lower seat, but my question is: does the bike "settle" a bit with time eg. does the hard seat mould to your bum and the springs sag a bit more? That could make the difference for me.

[@standupmoto]

@@andrewgreen6060 Hi Andrew, no the suspension doesn’t settle in my experience and I’ve done a fair bit of riding now. Even with 2 on board it doesn’t seem to go down very far so I’d say your only option there would be in the lowered seat area, the seat itself once your feet are on the pegs is really quite comfortable but once again it doesn’t crush much. I haven’t done any research at this stage as to whether a lowering link is available as with the DR650 as it suits me well (my personal preference is tall in the seat) but I know some riders prefer to be able to get both feet flat on the ground. When I come to a stop I tend to slide the left cheek over, flat foot on the left and leave the right foot on the peg/rear brake. I’ll do a bit of research and see what I come up with.

[@andrewgreen6060]

@@standupmoto Thanks heaps for the detailed reply. Best not to hurry a decision. I'll try for a test ride when a dealer has enough stock. Main issue would be having to stop unexpectedly on uneven ground - I've gone over in the past in that situation!

[@standupmoto]

@@andrewgreen6060 Andrew are you in South Aussie? Your more than welcome to take mine for a spin.

[@seandunn3116]

Great precis of this machine, I have one, just coming up to it's 1000k service, no filters in stock at Suzuki! 400 on backorder!! Not good enough Suzuki, that should not happen. I am enjoying it so far, and concur with your findings. They do have a good range of accessories in India for the bike, and the Indian company Roar Exhausts make 3 different systems for it.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for sharing, I’ll definitely look into Roar for the exhaust 👍

[@vijayam1]

The sweet spot about this motorcycle is, this damn thing does everything so suave. You wanna knee-down, heck yes, you wanna cross over that 20 inch curb, heck yes, you wanna have some fun down the trails and grass, hell yeaa! Such a fun motorcycle this, have one and it's a through do-it-all motorcycle... The valve clearance can be a little complicated, as it is a shim as opposed to screw and nut.. Excellent review dear sir!

[@standupmoto]

Great to hear your enjoying your VStrom and glad you enjoyed the review 👍

[@andrewgreen6060]

@@standupmoto It's lock nut, not shim

[@standupmoto]

@@andrewgreen6060 Yes that was my understanding also.

[@tannenherz]

high, a good sound. kindly Fiete

[@standupmoto]

👍

[@JadeBryanJardinico]

Thanks for this review, this helped me decide to pick it over the Burgman 400 :D

[@standupmoto]

Hi glad you enjoyed it, if it’s more long distance sealed roads you will be on the Burgman would be the better choice. If the road are not so good or unsealed or you want to ride some tracks etc the VStrom would be the go. Thanks for the comment.

[@carmelot324]

very good review ,thank you for sharing.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@carmelot324]

your review helped me decide on my first bike at the ripe age of 53 so thank you.@@standupmoto

[@standupmoto]

@@carmelot324 Great stuff, you’ll love it. I’ve had the one in this review for some time now and my views haven’t changed , it’s a great little bike. 👍

[@nearlypastit2385]

Steve, I'm a vertically challenged pensioner who currently rides a Royal Enfield Meteor 350. Fifteen months ago I 'downsized to it (with trepidation) from an Interceptor 650. I ride purely for pleasure in the country lanes of Hampshire (UK). The Meteor has been a revalation, both comfortable and 99% of the time enough grunt for my needs and excellent mpg figures. Unfortunately my local dealer (22 miles away) has just ceased trading (apparently the last 12 months bad trading conditions persuaded him to give up the business completely ! ). I'm now researching what 'bike I could get to give me as much pleasure as my Meteor (I can't afford the space or cost of having two 'bikes). Your Review of the 250 V-Strom was a huge pleasure to watch. Your enthusiasm was very infectious. If it wasn't night time in the evening I would have rushed out to my local Suzuki dealership to try and touch a v-strom for real (and hopefully find out if they have a demo bike available. Thank-you so much for your excellent and novel review. The little V-Strom is definitely on my short list after seeng your professional production. Stay safe. Kind regards, Glynn.

[@standupmoto]

Hello Glynn, yes I hear you. I’ve just finished doing a review on the Honda Africa Twin , as much as I love the power and ability of this wonderful big bike it’s hard work. I’m in my mid 60’s myself now and after finishing AT review it I rode the my baby Strom the following day on a casual ride with some friends, it’s simple, light, economical ,stress free & just plain old fun. If you go down the path of the Suzuki (I didn’t realise this model was in the UK yet) I would however go for the lower seat option as they are quite tall. I’ve had her a few months now and my only complaint is the instrument panel is not bright enough for my lets say mature eyes, would love to hear your thoughts after test riding one ☝️, cheers.

[@nearlypastit2385]

@@standupmoto Steve, thank you for your reply. Your comment about availability of the V-Strom 250 in the UK has set alarm bells ringing with me. I've not contacted my local Suzuki dealer yet, but have been on their website and the V-Strom 250 isn't shown (I just assumed they hadn't updated the site,but maybe it's because it isn't yet available over here). I now have a mission to confirm the situation ! I suspect your theory is right, so this may also explain that there aren't many English reviews on KZbin. Doh ! A few years back I did own a 650 V-Strom and my lack of height has always been problematic with 'bike purchase : 5' 8" (173mm) at that time (but age has taken its toll so more like 5' 7.75" now) and with a a 740mm inseam (not wearing boots). I lowered the suspension on the 650, but, as you will be aware, it's when puushing a 'bike about is when weight/height of the machine comes into play. Actual riding isn't a problem. I found the 650 top heavy when getting it backwards out of my 'bike shed, so reluctantly had to part with it (before I had a mishap and got squashed !). The unfortunate situation I'm in is that, with the new price of my Meteor being so low, there is a consequent knock-on effect with trade in value (taking into consideration a dealers need to have a profit margin, why would a customer buy a used 'bike if, for a few hundred pounds more, they could have a brand new one !). With product price inflation costs soaring away, I want to make my change as soon as practicable, so, the issue you've hinted at will, most likely, take the 250 V-Strom off my very short list. However, I'm very grateful for your 'stear' so thank-you. It seems my viable options list will likely need pruning : - (

[@andrewroberthook3310]

This is an excellent review

[@standupmoto]

Hi Andrew, thanks mate glad you enjoyed it. Yes Adelaide for sure, some Riverland areas also. Maaaate $107 for a fill ! And it’s only going to get worse as time goes on, if you look at a graph the fuel prices go up & down but the overall trend is up over a period. The baby Strom is a pearler, ride it nicely and it only sips, at the price it won’t take long to pay for itself. Cheers.

[@andrewroberthook3310]

@@standupmoto now the weather is warming up I can give the car a break I used to own old tt 600 Xl 500 and 1980 xl250 If I went big bore I would prob lose points ha ha I think the little Strom will be a good little goer especially in the Adelaide Hills ,I go to the city a fair bit and living near Murray bridge the cost is like 40 bucks there and back with a bit of running around in the city so I might head off to the bike shop tomorrow at mb they have a nice yellow one there ,cheers man ,might see you on the road I'll look for the orange one ha ha

[@standupmoto]

@@andrewroberthook3310 The yellow looks great, one thing though they’re not a freeway machine. They’ll do it for short rides but as a regular commuter you’d be working it pretty hard especially if it’s windy. On the flip side if you go the back way (past Monato on the old rd) they are great, especially through the twisties.👍

[@andrewroberthook3310]

@@standupmoto just test rode an orange one At Murray Bridge And bought the yellow one that was available Windy as up there today Impressed ! it will do exactly what I need Your review was the reason I made the decision all the best cheers

[@standupmoto]

@@andrewroberthook3310 Well done Andrew, geeees no pressure you better like it or I’m in trouble! Na use it for what it is and you’ll love it👍

[@PaulMacQ]

Thanks quoting the Lane filtering statement. Tryiing to explain to none MC users

[@standupmoto]

My pleasure,, yes some people don’t understand it’s quite legal where I am. I have had several comments in past videos basically telling me off for doing so. Cheers.

[@victorkuleza2292]

Excellent review! I wish they wouldbring it to the USA.

[@standupmoto]

thanks, Maybe one day!

[@madgunnerbomb]

Mogrip tyres are from MRF & it's one of the biggest tyre manufacturing companies in India.

[@standupmoto]

Yes 🙏🏻 thanks, I have since been educated 👍

[@356cruzer4]

The KZbin algo led me to this review. What a fantastic job you did on this detailed, honest and real world review 👍. How long do you plan to keep the bike? Keen to get your thoughts after 5K kms or more.

[@standupmoto]

Awesome, thank you! How long do I plan on keeping it? Well due to the lack of initial outlay, as in how well the bike is priced and the ongoing costs of low registration & fuel usage I hope to have it for some time. It’s just such a fun bike to ride, looks good & always gets people chatting when you stop somewhere. I have some other bikes and do tend to rotate them a bit (ok a lot) but the SX will be my long termer hopefully. I will definitely do another review when I’ve clocked up a decent amount of Kms. So far though so good, no problems or issues. Let’s hope it stays that way! Cheers & thanks for the comment 👍

[@frenchprize22]

Woah didnt realize you are in Adelaide, I have not been to the city with my baby Strom, perhaps I should give it a go. I rode it from Port Lincoln to Barossa recently, sweet spot as you said was 100, but it can catch up to 115 if needs be.

[@standupmoto]

Yes that 100 is the mark, Lincoln to the Barossa is a descent ride 5 hrs? Haven’t done a run that long, what was the average fuel consumption? They are a little gem in the city, easy to manage, easy to manoeuvre, great vision due to sitting reasonably high & upright. Brakes are excellent when some dope pulls out in front of you, that ABS works a treat.

[@SS-_.1]

Those are mrf Tyres. Mrf is a Indian company. MRF stands for madras rubber factory. It's a huge company in India.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for the info 👍

[@markgrech6]

Hi Steve, great review mate, thank you for such a detailed and honest summary. Ordered mine 5 months ago and took delivery yesterday. Very happy so far and rides great. Could you please tell me the part number of your Barkbusters as I would like to replace mine with the same ones you have. Thank you. Regards Mark.

[@standupmoto]

Hi Mark, thanks mate glad you enjoyed the video. The Bark Busters you see in this video are actually a universal set I bought many years ago for my DR650. They don’t have a part no that I can see but I’ve bars are only std 5/8 without any taper so any generic universal guards will work. Enjoy your new bike, would love to hear your thoughts after you’ve done a few Kms. Still loving mine.👍

[@sovetea3599]

Nearly at 14,000km on mine daily commuting to work and a little off-road every now and then very fun bike. Changed the exhaust to stainless as the stock one sounds kinda like a moped other than that its solid

[@standupmoto]

Thanks for sharing, would be interested in where you got your exhaust system. Cheers

[@sovetea3599]

@@standupmoto There's next to none aftermarket parts for the 250sx its pretty annoying. I found that the gixxer 250 (sf250) has an aftermarket stainless exhaust on eBay which fits the bike perfectly and the o2 sensor is in the right spot, think I paid $180 so pretty cheap

[@standupmoto]

@@sovetea3599 Thank you, I’ll do some research 👍

[@Njanshalu]

Tyres are from MRF, most famous and used tyre brand in India. Bike is Made in India and exported globally.

[@standupmoto]

Thank you for the information, yes I have no complaints about the tyres they work very well. Also the build quality of this bike is excellent, if India is producing bikes like this one and the Royal Enfield and of course many of the smaller BMWs & KTMs there is a very bright future in store for the industry there. Cheers

[@rudeboyhansley8612]

Good one

[@standupmoto]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@AshisMohanty87]

The tyres are MRF, an Indian brand. They are very good tyres in fact.

[@standupmoto]

Yes thank you, I have since been educated. 🙏🏻

[@artoswr]

Lovely bike, great daily rider. Have the Gixxer 250, same engine. Speedo wildly inaccurate though, 8-10km/hr off GPS speed 😮

[@standupmoto]

Cheers, thanks for the info.

[@nearlypastit2385]

Steve, Follow up message from my previous : Bad news for me. I've contacted one of my regional Suzuki dealers who informed me that the (as far as the UK is concerned anyway) the 250 V-Strom is a discontinued model ! Very frustrating as I've seen lots of KZbin posts extolling tyhe models virtues !!! My saerch goes on .

[@standupmoto]

Yes that was what I was told here in Aus when I first started looking for a 250 last year, sorry mate Suzuki discontinued the small VStrom. One month later Suzuki Australia were promoting the current incarnation of the baby Strom on their website, it’s like the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing. In fairness to the dealers they can only act on information given to them by the brand. The previous 250 Strom was actually a nice little twin, a bit expensive new here but I’ve spoken to a couple of owners that really like them. Maybe a good used version of the previous model could be worth looking at?

[@alexgere529]

Good review👍👍 , I would prefer the DL650 or the new Vstrom 800 (has very good reviews)

[@standupmoto]

Yes both the 650 and the 800 are great bikes but a different category to this one. Suzuki really are putting out some excellent bikes lately. 👍

[@alexgere529]

@@standupmoto agree👍👍the 250 is also a great bike

[@Mimolimotimo]

Don’t know why the LCD is color inverted in Australian models, which led to its low visibility. My Vstrom here in India came with a normal LCD which has great visibility.

[@standupmoto]

Yes I agree, we here in Aus get the very basic but functional LCD version. And yes it can be hard to read in certain light conditions, I’m not sure if the TFT version is available as an accessory. I think the main reason for this was to keep the price down.

[@jwandc3]

Great review thanks. This looks like an ideal second bike. Do you think the taller rider (about 6'4) would fit on this bike? Cheers.

[@standupmoto]

Yes, absolutely. You would probably need to do the handle bar mods that I did though. For reference I’m 5’10. Cheers.

[@hari4406]

Oh oh, can somebody steal topbox? Looks too easy to remove. Its locked, right? Can someone steal and run off with the topbox ? Good braking tests and acceleration test. Impressive, both your skill and the bike.

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the video, the top box must have the key to be removed.

[@Boleh888]

Suzuki always champion in buildings the good looking and practical bike from Supersport to small capacity motorcycles. The problem is, Suzuki brand not quite popular around the globe compared to European and other Japanese brands/models.

[@standupmoto]

Yes I agree.

[@backwoodsman1753]

Valve adjustment is NOT the simple nut and screw type as you claim. I understand it is the roller shim type , with no apparent access to get into the head, difficult to adjust, and expensive to get professionally serviced at recommended 5000km. intervals. One Indian report claims you"ll spend half the price of the new bike on servicing costs in the first 3 years.

[@standupmoto]

Hi , I’m about to do clearances so I’ll let you know. Access looks good but I’ll have a better idea after doing them, my information from a local mechanic was they were simple. let’s hope he was right! Cheers.

[@backwoodsman1753]

Good luck with that. It's hard to find any technical information for this new model; but at least there's plenty of uncongested space for working around that little head; and the identical powertrain fitted to the earlier model SF250 Gixxer has reportedly stood up well in India.@@standupmoto

[@dennistio]

Steve Great review!👍 How is the pillion comfortability when top box is installed? How is the handle vibration? Does it vibrate when it goes up 120kmh?

[@standupmoto]

Hi, It’s not bad 2 up with the top box on , but 2 larger people may find it a bit cramped. I haven’t spent much time at 120 to be honest, I have been there a few times but 100 seems to be the sweet spot. Remembering it’s only a 250 and I don’t really think it was designed for much over the 100 mark for prolonged rides, but I have to say the more I ride this bike the more I want to ride it. It’s just such a nice ride.👍

[@dennistio]

​@@standupmoto thanks for the reply :)

[@Sith790]

Well thx mate, watched your vid....several times....ended up buying one!!...Nice real world review, just one question....you say valve ajustment is nut and screw, but i read it is a shim type...can you elaborate a bit more please...will take delivery of mine tomorrow...

[@standupmoto]

Hi thanks and glad you liked the video. Yes you are correct about the valve adjustment, I was given the wrong information from the Suzuki dealer here in Aus. I did put the clarification in the video description the day after posting but based on feedback I’ve had from owners of the Gixxer (same motor) adjustments are few and far between. Congratulations on your purchase, it’s been some time now since doing this review and this little bike of mine has been fantastic. No issues at all and the already good fuel economy gets even better after a couple of thousand kms. One thing I would say is buy the protection bar you see in my video, it’s inexpensive and does a great job, this one has been on its side a couple of times now and no damage thanks to the little engine bar. Enjoy your new ride and let me know what you think. Cheers.

[@Sith790]

@@standupmoto Thx mate...Just got her today, pleased as punch thus far...unfortuanetly we don't get any of the accesories here in Southern Africa yet....was a bit of a struggle just to secure an oilfilter for the 1 st service...

[@standupmoto]

@@Sith790 Yes accessories are definitely a problem at this stage but everything is available online directly from India. The prices are very reasonable also, enjoy your new bike👍

[@rakesh3967]

Those tyres are from MRF brand from India. Madras rubber factory. I think the bike is also Made in India. You have great riding skills sir.

[@standupmoto]

Thank you for the information and kind words.🙏🏻

[@flexywing]

Wish they imported this bike to the UK

[@standupmoto]

Hopefully they will, they have only recently become available here in Aus but have been available in other countries for quite some time.

[@AutonationInc]

Subscribed sir. Have you done a Gixxer sf 250 review

[@standupmoto]

Welcome to the channel, not yet on the Gixxer 🙏🏻

[@andrewroberthook3310]

With fuel hitting 219 cents a litre and just put fuel in car at 107 dollars for a tank full I am thinking hard about getting one of these

[@123junu]

V nicely explained....covered everything for a perspective buyer..... does it require lots of gear changes in heavy traffic or it glides in high gears in slow speed as well.... After watching your video.... Planning to drop ktm 390 adv X and buy this instead..... as i.ll be driving 90 percent in city traffic.....any views on this would be welcome... ...

[@standupmoto]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the video, I haven’t found any problems with the baby Strom in the city at all. Remembering you will be taking a HP hit & off rd performance will not be the same as your 390, on the flip side ease of operation and crazy good fuel efficiency will definitely be a welcome consolation.

[@mageshp223]

Great review. I'm 165 cm tal, how do you think this bike will be for me? Seat height especially?

[@standupmoto]

165cm that would be maybe be a bit awkward with the standard seat but with the lower seat available from Suzuki I think it would be quite manageable. Is pretty well priced (the seat) also. If you are local to me you’re more than welcome to ride mine with the standard seat, if not see if your dealer can get the lowered seat into stock and pop it on a showroom bike. They probably won’t let you ride it but at least you sit on it to see how you feel.

[@Chandank007]

Thank you for the detailed information. I am always confused about the tyre pressure, the pressure mentioned in the manual is way too low (22,29 if i am not wrong) What tyre pressure do you use for a normal roads?

[@standupmoto]

Hi Chandan, I run 32psi F / 36psi rear for road & dirt roads. If I’m in continuous sand I’ll drop about 10psi from each, you just have to be careful not to lock wheels or spin the rear too much so as not to pop the seal on tubeless or tear a valve with a tube tyre when your running the lower pressures. The pressures on the placard are only a guide, it would almost be impossible to print the exact pressures because there are so many different applications, road surfaces, carrying a passenger and temperature variations. You will find that after 10 minutes or so the tyres will increase pressure due to the road friction, usually it’s only about 3 to 6PSI. Hope this helps cheers.

[@Chandank007]

@@standupmoto ah, thank you man. I was searching for this and couldn't find it anywhere on the internet.

[@Chandank007]

@@standupmoto by the way What about the rear suspension preload? I am a heavy guy, like around 140kgs. 3 is hard on small bumps and fine on big potholes. Having a pillion make a smooth ride. So spoke to the mechanic at suzuki, he couldn't understand the situation. What would you suggest as per your experience, go up or down?

[@standupmoto]

@@Chandank007 I personally run the preload fairly soft, not ideal for pushing hard through the hills racing other bikes but I get far less fatigue after several hours in the saddle riding on not so hospitable terrain. Suspension set up is something that is more of a trial & error thing until you reach the sweet spot, unfortunately the front suspension is very soft. This takes a lot of playing around with the rear to find that spot, at 140kg I’d be tempted to run it at about 3/4 p/load That’s where I found it was about fine 2 up at about 150 kg. Let me know how you go.

[@Chandank007]

@@standupmoto got it, thank you.

[@JoshSinnott97]

I'm coming from a 4wd background but am looking to get my motorbike license to potentially replace my car as im sure a bike will still be able to take me the same places my car does. From everything I've seen, this bike looks like it would be the best pick for riding at 100 kph as the more off road focused bikes either only have 5 gears or aren't ideal for doing those long distance rides as comfortably. Ive owned a dirt bike in the past but that was honestly years ago so im sure I'll be limited offroad by my skill level and not the bike, but do you think this could be a bike you could learn on and keep forever like i hear some people talk about the cbr300l? That would be my pick but i think to ride that daily would be too much of a compromise if it would mainly be used on the road Like i said earlier, im still trying to learn and am happy to take your advice on board. Thanks for an in depth video, much appreciated

[@standupmoto]

Hi Josh, the VStrom would be a very good in my opinion for doing what you want to do. It’s incredibly fuel efficient, comfortable and not too heavy. It’s also not too expensive either so if you change your mind about the whole bike thing you haven’t invested mega dollars, some of the adventure machines out there are really becoming unobtainable for many riders. The baby Strom is incredibly easy to live with, easy to ride and the rear suspension will take a descent load, the front however is relatively soft. This is not necessarily a bad thing , it is if you’re looking to do big jumps / tabletops etc it’s the wrong bike but if you are just easing back into the motorbike scene your shoulders & wrists will thank you after a day of trail riding. 100kph is not a problem, in fact it’s the ideal cruising speed for this bike but of course remembering it’s only a 250 so those hills will require a downshift or if you are heavily loaded as you would expect. Find your feet on a bike like this and from there a year or so down the road you may find different requirements you need from a larger or faster or heavier etc bike. The VSTROM is a good honest well priced trail bike, it’s not perfect but what bike really is. There always some form of comprise I guess but after owning this little machine for some time now my views haven’t changed since doing the review, it’s a little ripper. Cheers.

[@sputnik5991]

Hi there, I am curious to know your height and weight (both with and without gear). I am looking very closely at these but im 103kg without gear. I do like the CB500x and feel it would be better suited but cant justify the price. Being that I am still on Lams im looking for a bike to practice and get familiar with riding and this fits the bill.

[@standupmoto]

Both good bikes, the 500x obviously will have more power as it’s twice the size but as you mentioned they are far more expensive. Weight wise the SX is no problem, even two up its quite responsive and unbelievably economical. It would be a great bike to get your hours up and fun to ride in my opinion, I’m 5’10 & 85 kg. Where are you based? if in my neck of the woods you are more than welcome to take mine for a ride. Cheers

[@thomas-el]

Wow, such a well done review! Two quick questions: What is the maintenance schedule for valve checks and oil changes? Also, you mentioned that the windshield doesn't cause buffeting. What is your height? Thanks, mate 🙂

[@standupmoto]

Hi, I’m 5’10 and it’s fine for me but everyone is different of course . Doing my own oil & filter changes @ 5k (first one I did at 1k) , valves ! Interesting question, this is apparently the same motor as the Gixxer. I’ve had riders from India 🇮🇳 that they have 20k with no change in the clearances from new. So to be honest I’m not sure, I keep an ear on them of course but fuel economy and power haven’t changed since I got it. In fact both have got a little better, I do run full synthetic oil. Cheers.

[@thomas-el]

@@standupmoto Thanks for the quick reply! I'm about 1" shorter than you, so the windshield should work for me, too. The maintenance schedule in the manual doesn't list valve check/oil change intervals?

[@standupmoto]

@@thomas-el Hi again Thomas, I’ll have to check. I tend to do oil changes on all of my regular bikes @ 5k (competition bikes @ only 500 kms), valves I just check periodically. That probably sounds strange but it all depends on how the bike is ridden, what oil it runs & the temperatures it’s operated in and so on. I look at the servicing much like the recommended tyre pressure placards somewhere on the bikes, it’s a guide but that’s all it can be as there are so many variables (temperature,solo/passenger/brand etc). I will however grab the manual and have a look, you’ve got me curious now. 👍

[@thomas-el]

No worries, I’m asking because the frequency of maintenance required to not invalidate warranty will affect total ownership cost. Also, once warranty expires, I’ll want to maintain the bike myself. Thanks again for your help 🙂

[@thomas-el]

Yesterday, I got a dealer to show me the manual. It's 5000 km for both oil and valves.

[@westoze1134]

Whats that little red anodized thing on the swing arm , is it a ad on part ?

[@standupmoto]

Ah yes I did forget to mention them, they are indeed an add on, They are bobbins that bolt into captive threads already on the swing arm to allow you to use a paddock stand to raise the back of the bike. Cheers,.