I've had my TU250X for coming up on 6 years, got it right after completing my safety course and getting that little M on my license and I still love it. Only in the past year or two have I been thinking of getting a bigger bike for taking trips but I plan to keep my TU250 for just running around town. Also to, like you said, "Riding a slow bike, fast" because it is still a lot of fun to push every little bit of performance you can out of the tough little thing, even after years of riding it.
It's the same thing with cars. I have long since given up large V8 cars for small 3 and 4 cylinder ones because it's just more fun to redline and bang every gear and not worry about breaking speed limits lol.
We're nearing the end of 2020 and it still remains a 49-state model bike. for God's sake throw us a bone here in Cali Suzuki, a lot of new riders would love to have this bike!
I bought my wife a new TU in '09. I have an 06 DL1000 V-Strom, and I absolutely love riding the 250 on local backroads and to work. I changed both sprockets to get it lower revving at higher speeds
im 73,,have a garage full of classic 4cyl hondas,,the tu250x is my favorite,,does everything well including hwy,,and smooth,,love the bars and seat,,way more than a beginner bike,,
I almost got a 250x as my first bike, but I got the continental gt 650 instead. No regrets. I have to give the 250x credit though - I first got into motorcycles when I walked past one one parked and fell in love.
Thanks for this review. I'm wanting to get a motorcycle license, and TU250X is one of my first choices. I like the retro/classic look, I'm not a fan of sport bikes. I agree with you that this is not just a bike for beginners. I don't see the need for me to ever have something super powerful. I'm not that big of a guy, plus the TU250X can still carry a passenger, be used for commuting and running errands, or even perhaps for short road trips or touring. What else do I need?
Its not even that bad on the highway where you're going 70+, yeah a little windy, but thats the fun part. I can easily get up to 85, but my speedo wobbles sometimes at 75+ when I'm having bad throttle control. I cant complain when my round trip of 60 miles of work is cheap ( I'm getting around 80-90 to the gallon) and fun almost hour round trip. I love this bike, if you can find one for under 2k cop it asap.
It's really a great all-around bike! It's a little light on the highway, but otherwise it will keep up, and you'll love the easy handling, fuel economy...really everything is great. It's not super powerful...but if you don't need that then it's amazing.
@@AlexSimmons11c Yeah, I picked up a used one from dealer, a 2017 with about 5800 miles. The dealership put on two brand new tires, changed the oil, and checked out the chain. I got a package deal that included the bike, plus the taxes, title transfer and new license plate, delivery, and the basic rider course that I need to take to get a motorcycle license, all included in one reasonable price. So now I just need to take the class, and they all start ridiculously early at 7:30 and 8 AM. I haven't done anything that early since high school. I would rather pay twice as much for the class and have it run from noon to seven PM! Also, any recommendations for good saddle bags or panniers to use with this bike? I would like to be able to use it for errands and maybe for some day trips, so it would be nice to be able to carry a few things. Thanks for any recommendations.
It been a great first bike, I've had mine for years and I still love it, it really will do most anything you can ask of it. Only thing I've find a little lacking (just a little) is on the highway it'll keep up just fine but don't expect to pass anyone quickly and I personally wouldn't want to take a trip more than a few hours worth of distance. That said, my bike is pretty much stock so it could be kitted out better and if you have reasonable expectations of it, I bet you will love it.
I've had my tu250x for 2 years now. I live in a pretty big metropolitan city and loooove riding it around town. Although the I'm now looking for a bigger bike for longer trips, I'm gonna do everything I can to keep the tu250 because it's just so much fun.
I disappointed that they stopped making the TU250. It’s a great little bike! I bought the SR400 only because it remained and felt like my first bike when I was a kid (Yamaha DT100). But it’s a great bike!
HooDRidEWhiteY Do you still have your SR400? I bought my first in 2015 put 10,000 miles sold it. Miss it so much I Re-bought a new 2017 great around town back road bike I love it will never get rid of mine!
@@IrishPizzaMan I do still have mine, its a 2018. I think I have like 6k on the clock now because I have the fortunate problem of choosing between my sr and bolt! Lol I actually just spent all weekend putting bullet blinkers, a texavina seat, clubman bars, grips, and bar end mirrors on the sr! It's literally so good looking that I think after a slip on exhaust I might debadge it and put it in a car show this fall! Such a well built machine.
Do I think there are better first bikes? Yes Do I think there are better 70s/80s looking brand new bikes? No Thus, this is the best first bike available at the moment :)
I took my MSF course on a TU250x. It was fun, and I’m sure it would be a good street bike, but for my commute I needed at least a 500. Also, I found the seating position low, my legs would get cramps. For a beginner it should have ABS.
Used a TU250 for my msc here in Pa. ZERO experience and I learned to ride in 2 days. Now looking to buy one to take intermediate and advanced safety courses and street experience before I upgrade to something else.
I'm a 100% noob looking at a bike and I think it would definitely be a TU250. But, if I get one from out of state I'd like to road trip it back (probably at most a 500 mile trip depending on where I can find one). Do you think that's reasonable or safe for a beginner with this bike? Edit: Also, I really appreciate your videos about this. I feel like I learned more from the comments and I appreciate how responsive you are
That would be a tough trip for a brand new rider and there's a lot that can go wrong, plus if it is a brand new bike it is not the best idea to keep it at a constant highway speed for that long during break-in. Much better to see if you can rent a small motorcycle trailer or find some way to get it home! I am not trying to discourage, I want you to get your new bike! Just being real! Sorry for the delay, I was away for a couple of weeks!
Very different sized bikes with the same idea haha. The TU250X is the better option for a beginner, the Interceptor is the logically next step for a second bike or a "forever" bike for someone that just wants or needs more power and weight. They actually are very very similar, the Interceptor is just like a larger version of the TU in a lot of ways haha.
Always looked fwd to Steve's informative uploads.. I've got an Interceptor, a Himalayan and a TU. The TU is fun to ride and so damn good looking! if you remove the pillion seat. I love the Interceptor and the Himmi but the TU gets ridden the most and always draws the attention of older people with a fondness for the British classics. People can't believe it's a 2016. It's retro, Suzuki nailed it. 👍👍
School me why this isnt available in some states. Been wanting to get my M license and this bike will probably a purchase as soon as I get it. The thing is no shops here in Vegas have this bike. Damn.
I was looking at this for my first bike. I live in NJ and have alot of inclines and hills around me. So I was thinking of trying to find a SR400 instead.
I think this would still do fine depending on how heavy you are, and how severe the inclines are. It is surprisingly peppy for the size, but everything is relative haha. The SR400 is also a GREAT choice.
I have this bike,I put over 3000 km on it this summer. I took it on a couple major camping trips this year that involed riding all day on it,through the rain,back roads and major 4 lane highways at times.The bike has no problem going 110,i would push it to 120 at times.It gets a little squirly after 120 though.But i have beefy tires on it which may play a part.I would be weary of taking this bike with the factory tires on gravely dirt roads with sand..This bike is waaaaay fun and reliable.I have a question though,since it is fuel injected. Would adding a any fuel injector cleaner to the gas ever be a good or bad idea??
Are you serious? This bike goes over 75 miles an hour? I’m picking up 2 tomorrow After searching for years and contemplating; I did buy a ninja in between but MAN - please tell me you’re for real. I weight about 165-170 (I don’t look like it) and skinny build and I was assuming this bike wouldn’t go but about 75
I’m in New Zealand and they took the TU250x off the markets. I’m hoping something comes around in the next 5 years that replaces it for my girlfriends first bike
Absolutely! The vanvan is also a good choice but it’s more for someone who wants a small old school dual purpose type bike, as it comes more set up and designed like an old school small enduro (similar to a TW200). So if you plan to stay on pavement I think the TU250 is better
Tough call but definitely different bikes, the TU250 will be lighter and easier as a first bike or a fun second bike, but the Enfield will be a more capable "all-around" bike if it's not your first or if you can only have 1 bike haha. I'd say if you are only going to have 1 and it's your first the TU250 is the better choice, if it is not your first the Enfield wins. Or if you just want a bike that could be your only bike forever then the Enfield also wins haha
Alex Simmons thanks for the reply. I have a speed triple so I was going for a cafe racer for a second bike. I would buy the tu250 and buy a pre made cafe kit or just go and find a RE Continental 500cc GT maybe. The tu250x just looks like a great bargain.
Hello guys. Living in Europe and here the model has been discontinued from 2003. I have found one used from 00' in a quite good state. Are the older models worth it? Appart from the carb are there any other disadvantages?
Hey man I’m 15 and live in Texas and want to get my license so I can start riding to school and to run Aaron’s and stuff. My parents r letting me and the laws in Texas says u have to have a 250cc or under if ur a minor. I’m really thinking about pulling the trigger on this bike. Do u think this will be a good bike for that?
@@AlexSimmons11c It looks good if the early pics are accurate. Supposed to be released in June, but obviously missed that. Here’s an article about it: www.rushlane.com/royal-enfield-meteor-350-bluetooth-connectivity-12361296.html
at my country, this motorcycle called as thunder 250/GSX 250, similar frame slightly different at the engine ( carb & twin port exhaust) and the style.. watch this video for your reference : th-cam.com/video/0iAbwrKgg50/w-d-xo.html sorry for my english
Been riding for 30 years (all sizes of them) and the TU250x is my favorite bike!!
Awesome to hear it!
Which proves that beginners motorcycle is a category that doesn’t exists.
👍👍
I've had my TU250X for coming up on 6 years, got it right after completing my safety course and getting that little M on my license and I still love it. Only in the past year or two have I been thinking of getting a bigger bike for taking trips but I plan to keep my TU250 for just running around town. Also to, like you said, "Riding a slow bike, fast" because it is still a lot of fun to push every little bit of performance you can out of the tough little thing, even after years of riding it.
Exactly why I still love these things :-)
It's the same thing with cars. I have long since given up large V8 cars for small 3 and 4 cylinder ones because it's just more fun to redline and bang every gear and not worry about breaking speed limits lol.
One of the last beginner 250cc bikes that are still actually built in Japan as well.
We're nearing the end of 2020 and it still remains a 49-state model bike. for God's sake throw us a bone here in Cali Suzuki, a lot of new riders would love to have this bike!
I bought my wife a new TU in '09. I have an 06 DL1000 V-Strom, and I absolutely love riding the 250 on local backroads and to work. I changed both sprockets to get it lower revving at higher speeds
Plz tell teeth number on front and back sproks
Love my tu250. If there was a tu500 I would upgrade to that.
Oh man I would LOOOOOVVVVEEEE to see a TU500
I was really hoping there would be after I heard of this bike. I think they'd really do well in the beginner market.
Can always look into a SR400 if you want a little more engine!
im 73,,have a garage full of classic 4cyl hondas,,the tu250x is my favorite,,does everything well including hwy,,and smooth,,love the bars and seat,,way more than a beginner bike,,
My Trusty Classic-Retro Bike. Its like my favorite shoes, can't get anywhere without it.
I almost got a 250x as my first bike, but I got the continental gt 650 instead. No regrets.
I have to give the 250x credit though - I first got into motorcycles when I walked past one one parked and fell in love.
Thanks for this review. I'm wanting to get a motorcycle license, and TU250X is one of my first choices. I like the retro/classic look, I'm not a fan of sport bikes. I agree with you that this is not just a bike for beginners. I don't see the need for me to ever have something super powerful. I'm not that big of a guy, plus the TU250X can still carry a passenger, be used for commuting and running errands, or even perhaps for short road trips or touring. What else do I need?
Its not even that bad on the highway where you're going 70+, yeah a little windy, but thats the fun part. I can easily get up to 85, but my speedo wobbles sometimes at 75+ when I'm having bad throttle control. I cant complain when my round trip of 60 miles of work is cheap ( I'm getting around 80-90 to the gallon) and fun almost hour round trip. I love this bike, if you can find one for under 2k cop it asap.
It's really a great all-around bike! It's a little light on the highway, but otherwise it will keep up, and you'll love the easy handling, fuel economy...really everything is great. It's not super powerful...but if you don't need that then it's amazing.
@@AlexSimmons11c Yeah, I picked up a used one from dealer, a 2017 with about 5800 miles. The dealership put on two brand new tires, changed the oil, and checked out the chain. I got a package deal that included the bike, plus the taxes, title transfer and new license plate, delivery, and the basic rider course that I need to take to get a motorcycle license, all included in one reasonable price. So now I just need to take the class, and they all start ridiculously early at 7:30 and 8 AM. I haven't done anything that early since high school. I would rather pay twice as much for the class and have it run from noon to seven PM! Also, any recommendations for good saddle bags or panniers to use with this bike? I would like to be able to use it for errands and maybe for some day trips, so it would be nice to be able to carry a few things. Thanks for any recommendations.
It been a great first bike, I've had mine for years and I still love it, it really will do most anything you can ask of it. Only thing I've find a little lacking (just a little) is on the highway it'll keep up just fine but don't expect to pass anyone quickly and I personally wouldn't want to take a trip more than a few hours worth of distance. That said, my bike is pretty much stock so it could be kitted out better and if you have reasonable expectations of it, I bet you will love it.
I've had my tu250x for 2 years now. I live in a pretty big metropolitan city and loooove riding it around town. Although the I'm now looking for a bigger bike for longer trips, I'm gonna do everything I can to keep the tu250 because it's just so much fun.
I’ve been looking for one myself. If you need to sell I’ll buy it in a heartbeat.
I disappointed that they stopped making the TU250. It’s a great little bike! I bought the SR400 only because it remained and felt like my first bike when I was a kid (Yamaha DT100). But it’s a great bike!
cant get either of these in UK such a shame
I also chose an SR over the TU, but it took me 6 months to decide.
HooDRidEWhiteY Do you still have your SR400? I bought my first in 2015 put 10,000 miles sold it. Miss it so much I Re-bought a new 2017 great around town back road bike I love it will never get rid of mine!
Both awesome bikes!
@@IrishPizzaMan I do still have mine, its a 2018. I think I have like 6k on the clock now because I have the fortunate problem of choosing between my sr and bolt! Lol I actually just spent all weekend putting bullet blinkers, a texavina seat, clubman bars, grips, and bar end mirrors on the sr! It's literally so good looking that I think after a slip on exhaust I might debadge it and put it in a car show this fall! Such a well built machine.
Bought mine used for $2100, freakin love it. If you’re able to find one, buy it!
Hi missternae did u get it online or from an actual shop?
@@carolinapolicarpo9607 I bought mine used through offer up app
Do I think there are better first bikes? Yes
Do I think there are better 70s/80s looking brand new bikes? No
Thus, this is the best first bike available at the moment :)
Loved my 250x no problem around and really fun people think it is from the 60's
I took my MSF course on a TU250x. It was fun, and I’m sure it would be a good street bike, but for my commute I needed at least a 500. Also, I found the seating position low, my legs would get cramps. For a beginner it should have ABS.
Love the TU250x and the SR400 (Canada didn't get it... but still cool)
Killer bikes, both of them haha
I have been riding longer than most of your readers have been alive. I love that 250, good bike. Alex could you do something on an RE 500 classic?
Used a TU250 for my msc here in Pa. ZERO experience and I learned to ride in 2 days. Now looking to buy one to take intermediate and advanced safety courses and street experience before I upgrade to something else.
I'm a 100% noob looking at a bike and I think it would definitely be a TU250. But, if I get one from out of state I'd like to road trip it back (probably at most a 500 mile trip depending on where I can find one). Do you think that's reasonable or safe for a beginner with this bike?
Edit: Also, I really appreciate your videos about this. I feel like I learned more from the comments and I appreciate how responsive you are
That would be a tough trip for a brand new rider and there's a lot that can go wrong, plus if it is a brand new bike it is not the best idea to keep it at a constant highway speed for that long during break-in. Much better to see if you can rent a small motorcycle trailer or find some way to get it home!
I am not trying to discourage, I want you to get your new bike! Just being real! Sorry for the delay, I was away for a couple of weeks!
TU250 vs Enfield Interceptor ? I’ve been eyeing the interceptor for a while now but this Suzuki just appeared on my TL.
Very different sized bikes with the same idea haha. The TU250X is the better option for a beginner, the Interceptor is the logically next step for a second bike or a "forever" bike for someone that just wants or needs more power and weight. They actually are very very similar, the Interceptor is just like a larger version of the TU in a lot of ways haha.
Always looked fwd to Steve's informative uploads.. I've got an Interceptor, a Himalayan and a TU. The TU is fun to ride and so damn good looking! if you remove the pillion seat. I love the Interceptor and the Himmi but the TU gets ridden the most and always draws the attention of older people with a fondness for the British classics. People can't believe it's a 2016. It's retro, Suzuki nailed it. 👍👍
my license class used these. things took a beating and was still by far the easiest bike ive ever rode
School me why this isnt available in some states. Been wanting to get my M license and this bike will probably a purchase as soon as I get it. The thing is no shops here in Vegas have this bike. Damn.
I was looking at this for my first bike. I live in NJ and have alot of inclines and hills around me. So I was thinking of trying to find a SR400 instead.
I think this would still do fine depending on how heavy you are, and how severe the inclines are. It is surprisingly peppy for the size, but everything is relative haha. The SR400 is also a GREAT choice.
I have this bike,I put over 3000 km on it this summer. I took it on a couple major camping trips this year that involed riding all day on it,through the rain,back roads and major 4 lane highways at times.The bike has no problem going 110,i would push it to 120 at times.It gets a little squirly after 120 though.But i have beefy tires on it which may play a part.I would be weary of taking this bike with the factory tires on gravely dirt roads with sand..This bike is waaaaay fun and reliable.I have a question though,since it is fuel injected. Would adding a any fuel injector cleaner to the gas ever be a good or bad idea??
Are you serious? This bike goes over 75 miles an hour? I’m picking up 2 tomorrow After searching for years and contemplating; I did buy a ninja in between but MAN - please tell me you’re for real.
I weight about 165-170 (I don’t look like it) and skinny build and I was assuming this bike wouldn’t go but about 75
I've been looking recently, you can easily find these for less than $2500
I’m in New Zealand and they took the TU250x off the markets. I’m hoping something comes around in the next 5 years that replaces it for my girlfriends first bike
I took my MSF on one of these, so my opinion is jaded. After sitting on it for 2 days, it feels like sitting on a brick, lol.
Thumbs up before I even started watching the video. You have good info.
Can you give your thoughts on this versus the VanVan 200?
Absolutely! The vanvan is also a good choice but it’s more for someone who wants a small old school dual purpose type bike, as it comes more set up and designed like an old school small enduro (similar to a TW200). So if you plan to stay on pavement I think the TU250 is better
Alex Simmons you are a gentleman and a scholar for replying, thank you.
Looking for one for my wife! Want to build matching-ish TU250X (hers) and SR400 (his) combo :)
I notice that you have an enfield continental. I aspire to an interceptor. I see a tu250 as a good stepping stone.
You should for sure do a custom Tu250x!
I would LOVE to do that, maybe I can get my hands on a wrecked one and do a build on it...
Yesss! Would be an interesting project, cool bike.
Thank you for the info sir!
i have the model 1999, i prefer that old looking than the new one.
I been debating tu250x vs royal enfield continental gt for almost a year now.
Tough call but definitely different bikes, the TU250 will be lighter and easier as a first bike or a fun second bike, but the Enfield will be a more capable "all-around" bike if it's not your first or if you can only have 1 bike haha. I'd say if you are only going to have 1 and it's your first the TU250 is the better choice, if it is not your first the Enfield wins. Or if you just want a bike that could be your only bike forever then the Enfield also wins haha
Alex Simmons thanks for the reply. I have a speed triple so I was going for a cafe racer for a second bike. I would buy the tu250 and buy a pre made cafe kit or just go and find a RE Continental 500cc GT maybe. The tu250x just looks like a great bargain.
Hello guys. Living in Europe and here the model has been discontinued from 2003. I have found one used from 00' in a quite good state.
Are the older models worth it? Appart from the carb are there any other disadvantages?
Hey man I’m 15 and live in Texas and want to get my license so I can start riding to school and to run Aaron’s and stuff. My parents r letting me and the laws in Texas says u have to have a 250cc or under if ur a minor. I’m really thinking about pulling the trigger on this bike. Do u think this will be a good bike for that?
Yes
Absolutely! Probably the best choice you can make actually. Sorry for the delay man, I was away!
Alex Simmons alright thanks man!
You still haven't replied to my previous question which is
Di you have a review on Suzuki gw250?
Do you know about the maybe soon to be released RE 250 Meteor? Sounds like a bike in the same category as this one and maybe better.
It most probably will be a 350 single to replace the Thunderbird 350 they sell in India.
I have heard about it but haven’t had a chance to our hands on one yet obviously! I would love to do a ride and review if they come out here
@@AlexSimmons11c It looks good if the early pics are accurate. Supposed to be released in June, but obviously missed that. Here’s an article about it: www.rushlane.com/royal-enfield-meteor-350-bluetooth-connectivity-12361296.html
How does this bike do on the highway?
Anyone have any experience with the CSC SG250? Another bike that is very comparable to this but obviously hard to test out.
I personally don’t have experience with it, not available in my area at all unfortunately
My girl has one and loves it
Better than the rebel 250?
What motorcycle i can buy similar in California thank you.
Thanks
Best bet will be TW200 or VanVan 200 if available most likely
I heard someone say you shouldn’t ride these on highways or interstate, is this true?
Small engine. Realistically, too underpowered for any safe regular interstate use. State highways @ 55mph can be real nice .
Do you have a review on Suzuki gw250 inazuma
Do they still sell these bikes? Can't find them on their website.
As of 2021, they’re currently discontinued
at my country, this motorcycle called as thunder 250/GSX 250, similar frame slightly different at the engine ( carb & twin port exhaust) and the style..
watch this video for your reference :
th-cam.com/video/0iAbwrKgg50/w-d-xo.html
sorry for my english
No worries, thanks for adding!
How would the bike fit a guy that's 5'6"?
I'm 5'9" and my feet are easily flat on the ground on mine. I bet you'd be fine, especially since you really only need one foot down at stops
Yeah you should definitely be good. I'm 5'7" and flat footed it with ease. We rode these for the BRC course.
Im from Russia 🇷🇺. May i buy this motocycle from America?
Сережа Лазарев I think you’d buy it from Japan
@@danpapp7524 thank u!!!
If you can find a company willing to export, or just import from Japan
I wanted to watch this but your hands were flailing around way too much
Man for real, thought i was the only one with waving hand issues
i used this bike for my msf class/test. twas a breeze.
how are these bikes in a town with many hills? do you realy have to peg the throttle all the way?
Are these bikes available in Peoples Republic of Commifornia?
Commifornia is right. Get out while you still can!
Hood review
9 minute video and all I get to see is your face. Do you look at yourself in the mirror this much?
Blah blah blah, get to the point already. Too much lame opinion, too littlefact. Please shape up, dude.