Suzuki GW 250 INAZUMA 2012 — Specifications

What if Suzuki had finally found the formula to seduce the novice without putting them to sleep? In 2012, the return of the Inazuma name on a 250cc roadster is enough to surprise purists who remember the large-displacement twins of the 2000s. Far from the retro spirit of the XJR 1300, this new Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma boasts a modern, almost aggressive look, with wide shoulders and a headlight reminiscent of a mini B-King. It's clearly a machine that wants to make an impression, and it succeeds quite well.

Underneath this exterior lies an engine that still fuels debates on Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma forums today. This 248 cm3 inline twin delivers 26 horsepower at 8500 rpm and a torque of 24.5 Nm. The figures don't shake the asphalt, but that's precisely where the problem lies, or where the philosophy takes over. The Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma has a significant torque and weight for its category, which makes it very docile at low revs. It comes alive after 6000 rpm, but you have to work it to reach the announced top speed of 150 km/h. For a weight of 183 kg fully fueled, this is a mechanical unit that demands commitment, not laziness. Compared to the lively single-cylinder of a Honda CBR250R or the responsiveness of a Ninja 250, the Inazuma plays the card of smoothness and progressiveness, an approach that will appeal to beginners seeking gentleness, but which may frustrate those who want immediate sensations.

The chassis is in the image of the engine: simple, robust, but without extravagance. A steel back-bone frame, a classic fork, and braking with a single disc at the front and rear. It’s functional and effective for city riding or departmental roads, but nothing more. The 780 mm seat height is accessible, and the dashboard is well-equipped with its gear indicator and eco-riding indicator. It’s a motorcycle that doesn’t seek pure performance, but ease of use and style. For a price of €3999 at the time, it positioned itself as a serious alternative to anonymous small touring bikes.

So, who is the rider of the Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma? It’s the apprentice motorcyclist who wants a reassuring and stylish machine for their first kilometers, or the city dweller looking for a sober and reliable roadster for everyday use. Those seeking a punchy engine or a sporty chassis will need to look elsewhere. But for those who accept its docile character, it remains a credible option on the used market, where you can still find well-maintained Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma 2013 or 2015 models. A Suzuki GW 250 Inazuma test ride remains the best way to know if this character suits you. It doesn’t make you dream like a sportbike, but it fulfills its role with a certain honesty.