[VijayAnand1]

Originally Posted by girimajiananth

Thanks for this. I have not washed it recently. The bike has not been washed for a while / Where do I spray the WD40 ? around the horn switch? What exactly are horn terminals? Sorry for complete noob questions.

The spray nozzle should be aimed inside the switch gear gaps. i.e. indicator stalk gap, pass light switch gap. In all the switches you see, there will be a minor gap which is where the anti-rust lubricant should be sprayed. Pretty easy, once you get the knack of it.

Originally Posted by V0rtex

I've heard many people complaining about Suzuki's service. Owners could you please generalize your experience with Suzuki, is it as bad as they say it is?

Per my experience, on a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give it a 5.7. They either hit it out of the park or are abysmal -- just isn't consistent. Suzuki should make sure its spare backup is heft and buffed out as its scooter companions. The 250s simply doesn't deserve the poor spare back-up treatment which is turning the company's fortune for good. Suzuki, if you are listening, spare back up is your best bet to keep it aflat.

Cheers!
VJ

[Sebring]

In bangalore only Sapthagiri is good. Its a good 20 Kms ride for me

Originally Posted by V0rtex

I've heard many people complaining about Suzuki's service. Owners could you please generalize your experience with Suzuki, is it as bad as they say it is?

[KeepTraction]

#Dear Friends, here is my brief ownership review of the VStrom 250 SX after clocking 5000 kms#
>Purchased on: March 2023
>Manufacturing date: Dec 2022
>Previous motorcycles owned: Suzuki GS 150R, Honda CBR 250R
>Purchase decision criteria: Ample pillion seat space, simple maintenance for engine, and atleast the same power and weight as the CBR250R
>Others shortlisted: Honda CB350, RE Meteor 350, Bajaj F250

I must thank the ownership reviews by Sebring and VijayAnand1 which emboldened my decision to buy Vstrom 250 SX based on my criteria.

Delights:
>Engine has sufficient torque for low speed commutes and sufficient power for cruising at 90~100 KMPH
>Oil cooling is splendid and the radiator fans kicks in only after being stuck in crawling traffic for 30mins or more (depends on ambient temperature, of course)
>Gearshifts are quick and precise but need a confident heel/toe flick
>Upright seating is comfortable and spacious for both rider and pillion
>Stock Tyres are great for city roads, broken roads, and rough/loose surfaces
>Sturdy material quality of metals and plastics. A case in point: I had to replace the rear mudguard/fender parts because a scooter bumped into the rear number plate area. The interior mudguard (facing the rear wheel) cracked near the mounting point but did not break into pieces. So, I could keep using the motorcycle till the spare parts arrived for replacement.

Flies in the ointment:
>A slightly heavy clutch (compared to my previous CBR250R which had a light clutch). Perhaps other motorcycle enthusiasts can tell me how two 250cc engines with same output powers can end up with such different clutch designs
>Stiff suspension. In stock settings, the suspension feels moderately pliant only when I was riding with a pillion and 14 kgs of luggage (saddle bags and top box).
>Headlight intensity is fit for city use only
>Stock MRF tyres’ block pattern make a buzzing sound when cruising on smooth highway roads. On the flip side, this block pattern works very well when traversing broken roads, crossing sandy/muddy/gravel patches.
>Longer wait for spares


Delivery, Initial Ownership experience and hiccups:
[1] Took the extensive PDI check list and checked out the motorcycle on the previous day to delivery date. Everything was OK.

[2] The delivery experience was good, and happened after the registration and High Security Number Plates arrived. I was not in a hurry for temporary number plates.

[3] The next day, I checked the engine oil level and noticed that the oil was filled to the top of the sight glass. I asked the mechanic, but he said that an excessive oil level is when the oil appears in the sight glass while the motorcycle is parked on the side stand. Since this oil level was set at the factory and the performance during run-in was normal, I did not pursue any further. I did not notice any unexpected engine/gearshift/noise behaviour during run-in period.

[4] When I took the VStrom 250 for a short highway ride, I noticed that the handlebars were shaking in an up-down rhythm at speeds of 50kmph and above (I did not go beyond 70kmph since the run-in was still in effect). It was as if the front wheel was gently bouncing up and down while spinning. I did a few observations at different speeds/tarmacs over the next week and the bouncy behaviour persisted. I guessed that the front wheel was not balanced properly and decided to rule this out before investigating front bearing, tyre wear, front suspension alignment. I gave the motorcycle to the SVC to check the front wheel's balance. They did a static wheel balance test and re-positioned the wheel weight. But this made no difference when I tested the motorcycle again over city/highway roads.

After reading through multiple forum posts, I understood that I must try a computerized wheel balancing test before visiting the SVC again. I zeroed in on 'Madhus Tyre Center' at Lalbagh, Bengaluru. On an early morning visit, they did a computerized wheel balance test and stuck a new heavier weight strip on the front wheel rim ( I have attached an image below to illustrate the weight strip positions). I took the motorcycle out for a highway spin and immediately noticed the improvement in handlebar stability above 50kmph. The bouncing was reduced to a barely noticeable amplitude. I would say that the problem is resolved to a 99% satisfaction, and it does not cause any uneven tyre wear or destabilize my steering actions.

[5] Fuel Economy: I did a few tank full-empty calculations during city commutes (used to get ~35 KMPL) and found that the on-board calculator is quite accurate. I had not reset the Trip B meter since purchase, and it shows 39KMPL over the past 5000kms (consists of 30% highway trips and 70% city commutes). I have tried sedate city commuting but I have not achieved above 36KMPL. Highway rides at 70-80 KMPH give 40KMPL.

[6] When in idle rpm, the console LCD display backlight flickers at the same frequency. As soon I rev the engine above 2000 rpm, the flickering stops. This does not happen when the ignition key is kept ON and engine is OFF.

Some related problems that I noted from other user reviews:

# Vibrations in the Gixxer 250 engine reported by <neil.jericho> after 6000kms: For me, the engine is running smooth, as of now. I shall keep an eye on this since I am approaching the 6000kms mark soon. In related news, I saw other posts in the VStrom 250 SX thread about a recall for the camshaft replacement. I checked with the SVC and they confirmed that my batch is not affected but they are replacing the camshafts in other Vstrom 250s that come for servicing. Apparently, the job card cannot be closed without replacing the camshaft when those affected bikes come for routine service/repair.

# Electrical malfunction and water ingress in headlight unit after water wash: I have not experienced any problems in the ignition switch or water ingress in headlight after water wash.

# Suspension noise and engine noise reported by <drt_rdr>: No, the suspension operates normally in my VStrom 250. I hope <drt_rdr> can resolve their motorcycle's issues and give us an update.

[VijayAnand1]

Originally Posted by KeepTraction

#Dear Friends, here is my brief ownership review of the VStrom 250 SX after clocking 5000 kms#
>Purchased on: March 2023

I must thank the ownership reviews by Sebring and VijayAnand1 which emboldened my decision to buy Vstrom 250 SX based on my criteria.

Delights:
can resolve their motorcycle's issues and give us an update.

Thank you for your kind words. Let me add to what you've experienced - starting with the fly in the ointment which you've closely echoed with my thoughts. Starting with why the clutch is on the heavier side with respect to different 250s.

The clutch is heavier as you've mentioned, especially after having owned the CBR250 even without the slipper clutch, it's just two finger actuation and it's still smooth for a 5 spring setup on the CBR. The same 5 spring setup is what's on the Strom, but comparatively heavier springs. A heavier spring means stronger plate contact and better performance. It's not too hard or too soft, I'm totally okay with it. I've checked a few Stroms with handlebar risers installed and their clutch operation is simply appaling to say the least.

The suspension is hard - sincerely a pogo stick when ridden solo. The rebound damping is simply a disgrace. But the suspension simply is super pliant and transforms two up. The bike loves to be loaded and with two up it gobbles potholes, undulations with absolute ease and the handling is spot on on switchbacks - fully loaded. Having fiddled with the settings from 1 to 7, I'm currently at 4 with stock dialled in at 3 (1 softest - 7 hardest) and pretty much content - for now.

Headlights, just like all OE LEDs units are a sincere disgrace, but when compared to the other bikes, the Strom /Gixxer reflector has good spread and wrap around of what's in front. MRF Meteor M and FM2 do a good enough job in dry and decent enough job in wet and yes tire noise is standard across all block pattern tires. Complementing the bike, a well rounded tire with good enough performance and additing to the great looks. Even the ADV 250/390 have a smaller rear tire profile than the Strom.

Segue. The plastic quality is much better than than most 250s out there. Engine vibes are pretty much standard across the board with camshaft replacement being done on specific date manufactured bikes. A simple VIN check on the Suzuki website under the Service Campaign menu will let you know if your bike is under an official recall. Mine isn't under the recall batch. I'm closely keeping it under radar though.

The mild console flicker to the RPM thrum is perfectly normal. I've already derailed this on my thread. I haven't experienced any undulations from the front end riding the bike thus far and she's currently sitting in at 8k kms. Zero electrical issues, zero suspension noises, zero undue malfunction indication of any sort.

She fires up at 1.5 cranks in the morning and barring the wind buffeting noise at speeds above 120 to 135-ish which it can happily do all day, and the remiss of a center stand she's been a comfortable fill it, shut it, forget it type motorcycle thus far - hope she stays that way for the foreseeable future.

I shall update my thread in a while's time so that it's updated with how things stand thus far.

Cheers!
VJ

[girimajiananth]

Originally Posted by Sebring

Center Stand is on its way. They have made provision for it, if you see. The suspension is good (Plz check tyre psi)

hi Sebring, please let me know from where you sourced the center stand. I need one badly since I take my Vstrom to office and needs to be parked on center stand, else some one may easily scratch the bike. Also, this should be helpful in chain maintenance.

[Sebring]

I changed my mind and did not order one

Originally Posted by girimajiananth

hi Sebring, please let me know from where you sourced the center stand. I need one badly since I take my Vstrom to office and needs to be parked on center stand, else some one may easily scratch the bike. Also, this should be helpful in chain maintenance.

[neil.jericho]

Over the last few days, a Suzuki VStrom 250 owners group has been discussing about the new camshaft replacement recall campaign for the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Gixxer SF 250 and the VStrom 250.

As per the details shared by an owner "Description of Potential Defect
1 Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd 03-Aug-2023 GSX250,GSX250F ,DS250 1811 11/03/2022 08/08/2022

Some camshaft of the engines have insufficient surface hardness because the heat treatment of the exhaust cam is inappropriate due to a program setting error of the heat treatment machine. Therefore, abnormal wear of the exhaust cam may occur, causing abnormal noise, and if the vehicle is used continuously, the engine may stop and cannot be restarted."

You can check if your motorcycle is impacted by entering the chassis number on the Suzuki website. Apparently, there are 18 motorcycles in Cochin which are impacted by this recall. You will have to leave your motorcycle with them for 2 days. I got a call from the SVC but it was to inform me that the service was pending! Several others have been told that they need to drop their bike off for this recall.

[b16h22]

Originally Posted by neil.jericho

Apparently, there are 18 motorcycles in Cochin which are impacted by this recall. You will have to leave your motorcycle with them for 2 days. I got a call from the SVC but it was to inform me that the service was pending! Several others have been told that they need to drop their bike off for this recall.

Considering that they hardly sell in KL, 18 is a big number. I haven't spotted more than 4 Gixxer 250s where I live

[VijayAnand1]

Originally Posted by neil.jericho

Over the last few days, a Suzuki VStrom 250 owners group has been discussing about the new camshaft replacement recall! Several others have been told that they need to drop their bike off for this recall.

Matter of fact, I've been propounding the same here and other forums and some WA groups so that folks can get their VIN number checked, if they qualify for a potential recall. By entering the 17 digit VIN number on SUZUKI2WHEELERINDIA website under the Service Campaign menu, will let the user know instantly if they are scheduled for a replacement.

Also, I've been told here in Coimbatore, owners can call their respective dealerships and get their VIN checked if they fall under a recall. This is a good thing because it eradicates guesswork and lets the user know his status.

Cheers!
VJ

[vvs29]

Originally Posted by vvs29

The service center called me yesterday that Suzuki has asked to replace the camshaft and they will notify me when the part has arrived. Anyone else get the same call?

So 6 months after they initially called me, they finally replaced it when the bike went for it's 4th service. Initially I thought it felt smoother after the replacement, but I guess it was just placebo. It feels roughly the same.

[youdeet]

Hey all,

Finally, I bought Vstrom 250 SX a week ago. 250 kms so far.

Looking for your suggestions here.
Small Bumps & broken roads give me a lot of feedback on the back. It is not unbearable but I believe it could be due to high tyre pressure & rear suspension setting. I am riding the bike as it was delivered to me. Got to know from books online that dealerships generally overinflate the tyres (to may be make the bike look good?!) at the time of delivery or showcasing. Do you feel lowering the tyre pressure to recommended levels and/or adjusting rear suspension would help?

Also, recently (last 30 kms or so), ABS indicator turns off as soon as I start riding the bike after putting it in 1st gear. Do you feel this is some electronics issue? I am thinking about taking it up with them at first service after 500km or should I raise now?

Thanks in advance.

[sukiwa]

Originally Posted by youdeet

Finally, I bought Vstrom 250 SX a week ago. 250 kms so far.

Congratulations!

Do you feel lowering the tyre pressure to recommended levels and/or adjusting rear suspension would help?

Change one thing at a time, starting with tyre pressures at known tyre dealer not far away from your place so that tyres don't warm up too much. After adjusting correct tyre pressures, if problem persists then reduce preload at rear suspension to softer side by one notch.

Also, recently (last 30 kms or so), ABS indicator turns off as soon as I start riding the bike after putting it in 1st gear.

ABS indicator should turn off once bike speed crosses 6kmph. If it's going away immediately after slotting 1st gear, then please have it attended at service center. Don't wait till 1st service.

[whencut86]

Originally Posted by youdeet

Small Bumps & broken roads give me a lot of feedback on the back. It is not unbearable but I believe it could be due to high tyre pressure & rear suspension setting. Do you feel lowering the tyre pressure to recommended levels and/or adjusting rear suspension would help?

Ideally a tire pressure of 22 PSI on front and 29 PSI on the rear should give a good ride quality over bad patches. Setting the suspension to a softer setting interferes with a bit of cornering ability. The stock suspension setup offers a good amount of cornering ability by tall bike standards.

[VijayAnand1]

Originally Posted by youdeet

Hey all,

Finally, I bought Vstrom 250 SX a week ago. 250 kms so far.........
Thanks in advance.

Since you've parallel posted on both threads, I'll try to answer your query here. It's advised to cross-check the tire PSI after taking delivery, primarily because bikes which are parked over cement pavements tend to lose more PSI than normal, and showroom attendants either over-inflate or under-inflate. The recommended PSI values for the V Strom are..

22 PSI FRONT - COLD
29 PSI REAR - COLD

An overinflated tire is detrimental than a comparatively under-inflated tire. Too much air and the tire just bounces around the road making the ride harsh, so start off with your tire pressure values.

Secondly, the V-Strom by default has a hard rear shock. The bike has 7 preload adjustment settings which the stock locked in at 3. After trying all the way upto 1st to 5th, I've dialled up mine to 4th notch which seems to be a compromise for my weight and riding style. A hard suspension is better able to maintain its line and composure especially with a pillion while taking turns. A soft suspension would simply pogo stick giving the impression of a noodle-ish handling especially when taking bends. Get your rear shock preload adjusted at your service center and observe how it fares, it's a matter of few minutes, so that you feel at ease - strongly recommend.

Lastly, ABS light will and should turn off once the bike starts to move. The light turns off when riding indicates that the system is perfectly operating as it should be. You should only be worried if the light stays on speeds above 10 KMPH, which means your ABS system is faulty. Your ABS system is perfectly fine. Would strongly recommend you read your owners manual, it can help you a lot to understand your motorcycle -- better.

Good luck.

Cheers!
VJ

[youdeet]

Originally Posted by sukiwa

Congratulations!

Change one thing at a time, starting with tyre pressures at known tyre dealer not far away from your place so that tyres don't warm up too much. After adjusting correct tyre pressures, if problem persists then reduce preload at rear suspension to softer side by one notch.

ABS indicator should turn off once bike speed crosses 6kmph. If it's going away immediately after slotting 1st gear, then please have it attended at service center. Don't wait till 1st service.

Thanks. Based on yours and few others' advice I will adjust the tyre pressure first to recommended level and see how that changes the experience. For the ABS part, I read the manual and it is working as expected (indicator turning off after reaching 6 km/h so no issues there.