Cw First Ride 2013 Suzuki Gw250

CW FIRST RIDE 2013 SUZUKI GW250

IGNITION

FIRST RIDE

No excuse to not ride with this entry-level bargain

Matthew Miles

LAUNCHED LAST YEAR BUT arriving only now at US dealers, the new entry-level, liquid-cooled, 248CC parallel-twin Suzuki GW250 is pitched as a two-wheel bridge to larger-displacement models for younger and/or less-experienced riders. Unlike the retro-styled single-cylinder TU250X, the more modern-looking GW250 is equipped with an evaporative canister, allowing it to meet California emissions and be sold in the Golden State.

Why the delivery delay? Suzuki isn't saying. Production takes place in China— with Suzuki engineers overseeing assembly to maintain quality standards—

helping reduce MSRP to $3,999. That's a couple hundred bucks less than Honda's Thai-made single-cylinder CBR250R and a grand below the popular Japanesemade Kawasaki Ninja 300.

Factor in user-friendliness and the GW250 is an even better bargain. Its fuelinjected engine starts immediately, idles smoothly, and accelerates cleanly, a geardriven counterbalancer killing most upper-rpm buzz. On the CW dyno, the little twin produced 21.2 hp at 8,200 rpm and 14.8 pound-feet of torque at 6,600 rpm.

Clutch take-up was smooth, and steering required little effort. The 290mm front disc brake was consistent but light on bite. On the highway at an indicated 60 mph, the engine was turning 7,000 rpm in sixth gear. Large mirrors provided a decent rear view.

Suited for riders small or tall, the upright seating position is roomy, and the stepped 30.7-inch saddle is broad and well padded. With its 3.5-gallon gas tank filled to capacity, this economical Suzuki will deliver owners back and forth across town or over state lines.

While the 2013 GW250 is offered in one color, Pearl Nebular Black, the otherwiseidentical '14 model is expected to arrive early next summer in a second color: Metallic Triton Blue/Pearl Glacier White. CTU

2013 SUZUKI

GW250

PRICE

$3,999 (2013)