Suzuki V-Strom SX vs Gixxer 250: Differences Explained

While they might share the same heart, the differences are more than just skin deep

Suzuki has entered the small displacement adventure motorcycle segment with the brand new V-Strom SX. The ADV is based on the same platform as the Suzuki Gixxer 250, however, the bikes differ in more than one way. Here's how:

Stying

The most prominent difference among the two bikes is that of the styling. The Suzuki V-Strom SX takes design cues from its older ADV siblings and looks like a proper adventure motorcycle with slim body design, a sharp beak and edgy body panels. The Gixxer 250, on the other hand, encapsulates the appeal of a naked bike. Both bikes share the octagonal-shaped LED headlight.

Suspension

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 and V-Strom SX, both, are suspended on a telescopic fork up front and monoshock at the rear. However, the front fork on the ADV has been tuned to offer a better off-road riding experience and gets a travel of 120mm. The rear monoshock on the ADV gets seven-step preload adjustability.

Wheels

The Suzuki V-Strom SX rolls on bigger 19-inch wheels up front which the riders will appreciate while going in light trails. At the rear, however, it rolls on 17 inch wheels, same as the Gixxer 250. The V-Strom SX gets 100/90 tyres up front and 140/70 at the rear, whereas the Gixxer 250 gets 110/70 tyres up front and 150/60 at the rear.

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Dimensions 

Even though both the bikes are built on the same chassis, the Suzuki V-Strom SX gets a taller seat height of 835mm, 35mm more than the Gixxer 250. The subframe is also longer, along with a 100mm longer wheelbase, increasing the seating area. The 40mm more ground clearance will aid the V-Strom SX in tackling bad and off roads.

Features

In terms of features, both the bikes get a fully digital instrument cluster, however, the V-Storm SX gets turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. It displays info such as call notifications, message alerts, speed exceeding warning, phone battery level and ETA. The ADV also features a USB charging socket. Apart from Suzuki easy start system, the GIxxer 250 also gets side stand engine cut off.

Price

The Suzuki V-Strom SX is priced at Rs 2,11,600 and the Gixxer 250 costs Rs 1,79,700 (ex-showroom Delhi). This makes the ADV around Rs 30,000 more expensive than its naked sibling. The premium for the adventure motorcycle feels a bit much as it only gets slightly more features and equipment than the Gixxer 250.