suzuki / SUZUKI TU250

suzuki tu250

The TU is a successful small-displacement version of the Universal Japanese Motorcycle design that became popular in the '60s. The handsome paint-and-chrome exhausts complement in its black frame. A comfortable, upright riding position—along with a 30-inch seat height and 325-pound curb weight—make the TU manageable even for novice riders. The throttle and clutch are both slightly vague, which make both forgiving toward ham-fisted inputs. The TU would make a great starter bike. Fuel injection helps the 250-cc, electric-start single-cylinder return nearly 80 mpg and gives the TU a range of about 240 miles. On the road we saw speeds as high as 83 mph on flat ground.

The TU has a reassuringly powerful dual-piston front disc brake and classic looks, and is happy cruising around the city or sailing through the countryside. The joy of riding this motorcycle comes from carrying speed through the corners and enjoying the sights and smells of the open road. In the city, the TU is a pleasure. It's quiet, heat doesn't pour off it, and it is light enough to drag into tight parking spots.

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