The beauty of platform sharing is that you can spawn multiple motorcycles that share a number of components but serve completely different purposes. Case in point is the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and the newly launched V-Strom SX sport adventure tourer. Here are the key differences and similarities between these two motorcycles.
Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: Design differences
The most obvious difference between the two motorcycles is the way they are designed. The Suzuki V-Strom SX has that typical ADV design language, be it the beak under the headlight, the windscreen above it and minimal tail section. Other bits like the triangular tail-light aluminium top box rack and knuckle guards on the taller, wider handlebar are specific to this adventure motorcycle. The overall design is inspired by the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 sold in international markets. We even like the bold colours that the V-Strom SX is available in, as they make the bike stand out.
The Suzuki Gixxer 250 has been around for a while, but it is nowhere close to being long in the tooth. Bits like the muscular tank and sleek tail or the striking alloy wheel pattern add to the visual appeal and the Suzuki MotoGP bike inspired colourway is our choice.
Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: Ergonomics
Being an ADV, the Suzuki V-Strom SX has an upright riding position, with a comfortable reach to the handlebar. The foot pegs are slightly forward set as well. In contrast to this, the Gixxer has you seated in a more canted forward position. The handlebar is also lower and the foot pegs more rear-set for a sporty riding position. Lastly, the Gixxer's perch is compact in comparison to the spacious seat on the V-Strom SX, again highlighting the latter's touring focus.
Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: Chassis
In the case of the V-Strom SX, Suzuki has taken the Gixxer 250's main frame and made a few adjustments to the mounting points for the new bodywork. Both bikes, however, have a completely different subframe.
The front fork on the V-Strom is mounted off-set in relation to the Gixxer's and it also gets a new swingarm. This had led to a 100mm increase in the wheelbase over the Gixxer, at 1,440mm.
Coming to the wheels, the V-Strom SX’s 19 incher at the front gives it much better stability while riding over broken roads or trails. The grip offered by the MRF Mogrip Meteor tyres is also the reason behind the confidence you get on the mentioned surfaces.
The Gixxer has 17-inch wheels at both ends, in keeping with its street bike application, and it has the more grippier, tarmac-only MRF tyres.
Another difference between the two bikes is the ground clearance. By raising the swingarm pivot point and fitting a 19-inch wheel, the Suzuki V-Strom SX has 205mm of ground clearance, which is much higher than the 165mm ground clearance of the Gixxer 250.
Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: Features differences
Last but not least, the V-Strom's LCD instrument cluster is a new unit and features Bluetooth connectivity. It offers turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts and more. These features are not provided in the Gixxer 250.
Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: what are the similarities?
To begin with, both motorcycles get the same LED headlight and indicators. Underneath the bodywork, since the mainframe isn't changed, both bikes have 12-litre fuel tanks.
The telescopic fork and preload adjustable monoshock are exactly the same too, whether it is the amount of suspension travel or the internals. It is the same story with the brakes as well.
Coming to the 249cc, oil-cooled engine, it is in the same state of tune in both bikes. To reiterate, the single-cylinder engine makes 26.5hp at 9,300rpm and 22.2Nm at 7,300rpm. Even the internal gearing and final drive ratios are identical.
So, in effect, there shouldn't be a yawning gap in performance between the two motorcycles, even while considering that the V-Strom SX is 11kg heavier than the Gixxer 250.
We shall wait to see how well the new Suzuki V-Strom SX performs when we get the bike for a complete review. For now, you can read about our first ride impressions about the bike.