Motorcycle Suzuki Bandit (Suzuki Bandit) GSF 250 brief review

Japanese motorcyclesSuzuki motorcycles

In the lineup of many automobile and motorcycle companies there are models that have become truly legendary. In the automotive world, legends are, for example, the Ford Mustang, Volkswagen Golf GT, or the domestic Volga -21.

The world of motorcycles also has its own iconic motorcycles. These are Harley-Davidson, our Ural. The legendary motorcycles include the Japanese motorcycle Suzuki Bandit.

The production of these Suzuki models began in 1989 , and these motorcycles were a response to their competitor in the person of Honda with its CB1 model. Initially, production of two versions was launched: Suzuki Bandit GSF 250 and Suzuki Bandit GSF 400.

Later, two more models appeared: GSF 600 and GSF 1200. These motorcycles differed from each other mainly in the volume of the combustion chambers and the power output.

And if the GSF 400 was available in European markets, the GSF 250 was originally designed for the Japanese domestic market. And only over time, a motorcycle with 250 “cubes” under the tank appeared in the vastness of Europe.

Model overview

The Suzuki Bandit GSF 250 motorcycle was produced for only 11 years , its production ended in 2000, but even now it is the dream of many motorcycle lovers.

The GSF 250 belonged to the classic road motorcycles. And if we take this motorcycle in the modern classification, then it belongs to “naked”, since most motorcycles were not equipped with plastic body kits.

This motorcycle had a tubular frame on which the engine was mounted. The front suspension is made in the form of a telescopic fork. The rear suspension was pendulum with one central shock absorber.

Exhaust gases from each cylinder were discharged into one common exhaust pipe located on the right side of the motorcycle.

The engine design implied the presence of 4 cylinders arranged in a row. This unit had liquid cooling. The cooling radiator was attached to the frame under the tank.

The Suzuki Bandit 250 engine was constantly being redesigned , which affected its technical characteristics. Thus, the engine of the first GSF 250 could produce 45 hp. Later, the power of this engine was reduced to 40 hp.

In order to fully appreciate the Suzuki Bandit 250, you should look at the Kawasaki Ninja 250R, the technical characteristics of which are no less interesting.

It is worth taking a closer look at English-made motorcycles from Triumph. Get acquainted with the model range in our article.

Are there any special features during repairs?

The Suzuki bandit 250 has long been out of production, but you can still find similar motorcycles on the roads in considerable numbers. This phenomenon is due to the fact that the vehicle in question is well suited to repair and a variety of maintenance.

All of the procedures mentioned can be carried out in a private garage without much difficulty. Finding spare parts is not difficult. However, you will most likely have to pay a considerable amount for them. If the owner cannot carry out repairs on his own, then the best solution for him would be to contact a specialist.

Today there are many people who are well versed in the design of such motorcycles. Repairing such a vehicle is in demand and is no different in complexity. At the same time, buying a good Suzuki bandit 250 secondhand will not be difficult. Various craftsmen can, for a reasonable fee, carry out major repairs or tuning at the owner’s request.

History of motorcycle production

The motorcycle was constantly modified.
Thus, the 1989 models were equipped with clip-ons, there was a rear wing immediately above the wheel, the turn relay was mechanical, and there was no fuel level sensor. For the 1990 model, the clip-ons were replaced with a regular steering wheel. This year's model also had a retuned rear suspension.

In 1991, a separate series of this motorcycle was released - Suzuki Bandit GSF 250 Limited Edition. This version differed from the regular Suzuki Bandit by the presence of a semi-fairing with a headlight fixed on it, attached to the frame.

This one also had a temperature sensor on the dashboard , and the mirror mountings were slightly different. In addition, the location of the carburetors was slightly changed.

In 1992, the Suzuki Bandit was redesigned again. Starting this year, a motor was installed on the bike, the power of which was reduced to 40 hp. But the designers redesigned the gearbox, increasing the gear ratios of 5th and 6th gears.

This motorcycle had clip-ons installed, the turn relay became contactless, and the headlight was constantly on when the engine was running. A Limited Edition version has not yet been released. Also released this year was a model with a standard steering wheel and again a retuned rear shock.

In 1993, a Limited Edition version appeared, already with a 40-horsepower engine. The only difference from the regular version was the existing semi-fairing; otherwise the motorcycles were identical.

In 1995, the second generation of the bike appeared, designated Suzuki Bandit GSF 250-2. The motorcycle was offered with two types of engines: a conventional engine and an engine with variable valve timing.

The second generation models did not have a rear wing above the wheel, and a fuel level sensor appeared. The appearance of the fuel tank, as well as its volume, was changed; the exhaust pipe received a slightly different bend.

Since the second generation, the Limited Edition version has not been produced.

Production of this generation of motorcycles continued until 2000, after which it was decided to end production of the Suzuki Bandit GSF 250 . But these motorcycles remain popular even now.

Reviews about the motorcycle

The first thing that catches your eye when reading reviews after purchasing a Suzuki Bandit 250 is, of course, the price. For 70-100 thousand rubles you can find a well-preserved copy. True, in this case the mileage will be impressive, and there will be many shortcomings. It is with the technical part that owners of the Suzuki GSF250 most often have problems. The fact is that the carburetors on this motorcycle leave much to be desired. Quite expensive spare parts that are difficult to find also add their own fly in the ointment.

But, despite all the troubles associated with maintenance and repair, a frisky and fast motorcycle can give anyone a feeling of freedom and drive. The “adult” and loud operation of the engine, stylish appearance do not leave “bandits” unnoticed on the roads.

The motorcycle is also not recommended for long trips. When riding for a long time, all parts of the body become numb, and the control knobs are quite difficult to switch, which is why your hands also get tired quickly. At the same time, the bike is ideal as a working city option.

Based on the reviews, we can conclude that when buying a Suzuki Bandit you need to very carefully choose a model whose performance will have no complaints. Otherwise, you will have to spend a significant amount on constant repairs and maintenance of the bike.

Specifications

The main characteristics of the Suzuki Bandit GSF 250 can be viewed in the table:

What is remarkable about the power plant?

The vehicle includes a four-stroke engine that uses high-octane gasoline as fuel. The engine has the following characteristics:

1. The working volume of the cylinders reaches 250 cubic centimeters.
2. The maximum compression ratio is 12.6.
3. Power is 42 hp. It is achieved by rotating at a frequency of 14,000 rpm.
4. The diameter of one cylinder reaches 49 mm.
5. The torque is 24.5 N at a frequency of 10,000 rpm.
6. The piston stroke is 33 mm.
7. The engine includes a liquid cooling system.
8. Starting is done using an electric starter.
9. The ignition is electronic and belongs to the contactless variety.

The engine that is part of the Suzuki bandit 250 has some unique features. The traction present at low and medium speeds is insufficient. However, after the vehicle reaches 9000 rpm, the engine transforms into a power unit with great power and begins to fully utilize its potential.

The transmission includes a 6-speed gearbox. The motorcycle owner switches between them with his foot. The clutch is of the multi-disc variety and performs its functions in an oil bath. Torque from the crankshaft is transmitted to the rear wheel through a chain drive.

Price

The popularity of this motorcycle is due to its reliability. The current owners only list the disadvantages of this motorcycle as the rare high-quality tires for the rear wheel.
As already mentioned, production of the Suzuki Bandit with a 250 cc engine ceased in 2000. Therefore, it will no longer be possible to purchase a new motorcycle. But you can buy a used bike .

The price of a Suzuki Bandit depends on the mileage, year of production, installed engine and the condition of the motorcycle itself. A motorcycle produced in 1989-1995 can be purchased for $2000-3000. Motorcycles of later production years will cost more.

The Suzuki Bandit 250 is a good motorcycle option for a beginner. Despite the fact that it has not been produced for many years, the reliability of the motorcycle is recognized by the community.

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What do the owners think?

People who have purchased a 1250s motorcycle and have used it for a long time note the reliability and durability of the braking system and chassis. However, motorcyclists who have covered long distances on it do not give very good reviews about the ergonomics of the seat. They say that after a long trip the driver gets very tired and does not want to continue the journey.

There is a modification of the Suzuki bandit 250, equipped with special clip-ons, which does not cause any complaints, but people agree that the steering wheel must be periodically adjusted. This is not very convenient. Some motorcyclists prefer to replace clip-ons with more conventional road horns. This is where the negative reviews end.

The device does not require too much attention and frequent adjustments. However, the owner will have to refuel the motorcycle only with high-quality gasoline and comply with regulations regarding the lubrication procedure. Preventive examinations are carried out on a monthly basis.

If any defects are identified, then knowledgeable people recommend carrying out repair work as quickly as possible, even if the defect seems minor.

Today, the Suzuki bandit 250 holds the title of being better than the late 90s motorcycle produced in Japan. Some experts note a long operational period with the necessary care. If the device is treated with care, it will serve its owner for 15 to 20 years without major repairs.

Photo gallery

The hero of our article can no longer be seen on the street so often, which is a pity, the motorcycle is really good. Progress cannot be stopped and it is necessary to give way to newer models with improved characteristics and convenience for the rider. Let's look at a photo of the Suzuki Bandit 250 during its popularity.