The Suzuki V-Strom SX is a compelling addition to the adventure-touring segment in India, blending versatility, performance, and affordability into a package that appeals to both novice riders and seasoned adventurers. Launched by Suzuki Motorcycle India in 2022, this quarter-litre motorcycle marks the Japanese manufacturer’s entry into the competitive 250cc adventure touring category. Built on the proven platform of the Suzuki Gixxer 250, the V-Strom SX inherits a reliable engine and chassis but elevates the experience with adventure-ready ergonomics, rugged styling, and practical features tailored for Indian roads. Positioned as a budget-friendly yet capable tourer, it targets riders seeking a motorcycle that can handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and light off-road exploration without breaking the bank.
Suzuki has crafted the V-Strom SX to embody the spirit of its larger V-Strom siblings, like the V-Strom 650XT and 800DE, while keeping it accessible to a broader audience. Its design draws inspiration from the iconic DR-Z off-road racers, featuring a distinctive beak-like front end, a tall stance, and a windscreen that hints at its touring pedigree. With a focus on fuel efficiency, comfort, and durability, the V-Strom SX stands out as a practical choice in a market dominated by rivals like Royal Enfield, KTM, and Yezdi. This detailed exploration covers the bike’s technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, performance, and competition.
Technical Specifications
The Suzuki V-Strom SX is powered by a robust and efficient 249cc engine, paired with a chassis and suspension setup designed for versatility. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, reflecting the latest updates as of March 31, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Oil-Cooled, SOHC |
| Displacement | 249 cc |
| Max Power | 26.5 PS @ 9300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 22.2 Nm @ 7300 rpm |
| Cooling System | Oil-Cooled |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 32 kmpl |
| Mileage (Real-World) | 35-38 kmpl (as per user reviews) |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, Coil Spring, Oil Damped |
| Rear Suspension | Swing Arm Type, Coil Spring, Oil Damped |
| Front Brake | Disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | Disc with ABS |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless |
| Front Tyre | 100/90-19 |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70-17 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 Litres |
| Kerb Weight | 167 kg |
| Seat Height | 835 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm |
| Length x Width x Height | 2180 mm x 880 mm x 1355 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2B (OBD-2B Compliant) |
| Starting System | Electric Start (Suzuki Easy Start System) |
Variants
The Suzuki V-Strom SX is available in a single variant, keeping the lineup simple and focused. However, it offers three striking colour options to cater to different aesthetic preferences. Below is a table detailing the variant and colour choices, based on the latest information from Suzuki’s official website and BikeWale.
| Variant | Colour Options | Features |
|---|---|---|
| V-Strom SX Standard | Champion Yellow No. 2 | Fully Digital Cluster with Bluetooth, ABS |
| Glass Sparkle Black | Fully Digital Cluster with Bluetooth, ABS | |
| Metallic Sonoma Red (2025 Update) | Fully Digital Cluster with Bluetooth, ABS |
The 2025 model introduces the Metallic Sonoma Red colour, replacing the earlier Pearl Blaze Orange option, aligning with Suzuki’s refreshed styling for the year.
Price in Metro Cities
The Suzuki V-Strom SX is priced competitively, with slight variations in on-road costs across metro cities due to differences in taxes, insurance, and registration fees. The prices below are updated as of March 31, 2025, sourced from BikeDekho and BikeWale, reflecting the ex-showroom and on-road figures for the Standard variant.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2,16,000 | 2,45,856 |
| Mumbai | 2,16,000 | 2,32,000 |
| Bangalore | 2,16,000 | 2,44,000 |
| Chennai | 2,16,000 | 2,37,000 |
| Kolkata | 2,16,000 | 2,47,000 |
Note: On-road prices include RTO charges, insurance, and additional fees, which may vary slightly based on dealership offers and state-specific taxes.
About the Suzuki V-Strom SX
Design and Ergonomics
The Suzuki V-Strom SX exudes a rugged charm that immediately sets it apart in the 250cc segment. Its design borrows heavily from Suzuki’s larger V-Strom models, featuring a prominent beak-like front fascia, a tall windscreen, and a muscular fuel tank that gives it a big-bike presence despite its quarter-litre displacement. The bike’s slender shell, as Suzuki describes it, is a result of its compact engine design wrapped in a protective, adventure-inspired body. This aesthetic not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to its nimble handling, making it easy to weave through city traffic or tackle winding roads.
Ergonomically, the V-Strom SX is a standout. The upright riding posture, wide handlebars, and well-positioned footpegs create a relaxed yet commanding stance, ideal for long rides. The seat, at 835 mm, is on the taller side, which might pose a challenge for shorter riders, but it offers ample padding and space for both rider and pillion. The subframe has been extended compared to the Gixxer 250, providing more room for the pillion—a thoughtful touch for touring enthusiasts. The 205 mm ground clearance ensures it can handle rough patches and mild off-road trails, though its road-biased nature limits its off-road prowess compared to hardcore adventure bikes.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Suzuki V-Strom SX lies a 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, SOHC engine—a proven unit shared with the Gixxer 250. Producing 26.5 PS at 9300 rpm and 22.2 Nm at 7300 rpm, this engine delivers a balance of peppy performance and efficiency. The oil-cooling system, a hallmark of Suzuki’s engineering, ensures quick warm-up and optimal temperature management, enhancing durability and fuel economy. Paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox, the V-Strom SX offers smooth power delivery, making it equally adept at cruising at 80-90 kmph or hitting triple-digit speeds on highways.
The engine’s refinement is one of its strongest suits. It remains vibration-free at moderate speeds, and even at higher revs, it feels composed, though some users note a flat spot in the mid-range that requires working the throttle for quick overtakes. The Suzuki Easy Start System simplifies ignition, requiring just a brief press of the button, while the fuel injection ensures precise throttle response. With an ARAI-claimed mileage of 32 kmpl and real-world figures ranging from 35-38 kmpl, the bike strikes an impressive balance between performance and economy, offering a theoretical range of over 400 km with its 12-litre tank.
Ride and Handling
The Suzuki V-Strom SX shines as a road-biased tourer with commendable handling characteristics. Its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, both fitted with tubeless tyres, provide stability and confidence on paved surfaces. The telescopic front forks and rear monoshock, carried over from the Gixxer 250, offer a firm yet adequate ride quality. While the suspension handles bumps and undulations decently, it lacks the plushness of higher-end ADVs, and the rear can feel stiff on rough terrain. The 120 mm front fork travel is sufficient for light off-road use, but the bike’s design prioritizes tarmac over trails.
Weighing in at 167 kg, the V-Strom SX is relatively lightweight for an adventure bike, aiding its agility in urban environments. The steering feels slightly slower due to the larger front wheel, aligning with its touring-oriented geometry, but it remains manageable. The dual disc brakes with dual-channel ABS provide reliable stopping power, though some reviews critique the braking performance as adequate rather than exceptional. For riders accustomed to standing on the pegs for off-road stints, the low-set handlebar can be a drawback, limiting control in such scenarios.
Features and Technology
Suzuki has equipped the V-Strom SX with modern features to enhance the riding experience. The fully digital instrument cluster, borrowed from the Gixxer 250, is a highlight, offering Bluetooth connectivity via the Suzuki Ride Connect app. This enables turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, speed warnings, and phone battery level display—features that add significant value for touring riders. A USB charging socket near the cluster is a practical addition, glowing blue for visibility in low light.
The bike’s lighting setup includes an LED headlight for improved visibility and halogen indicators for cost-effectiveness. Daytime running lights, a pass switch, and an engine kill switch further enhance functionality. While it lacks advanced electronics like traction control or switchable ABS (found on larger V-Strom models), the V-Strom SX covers the essentials well for its price point. The absence of spoke wheels or off-road-specific ABS, however, is a missed opportunity for broadening its adventure credentials.
Practicality and Comfort
Practicality is a key strength of the Suzuki V-Strom SX. Its 12-litre fuel tank, combined with excellent mileage, makes it a reliable companion for long-distance rides. The spacious seat and upright ergonomics ensure minimal fatigue, even after hours in the saddle, as evidenced by user reports of pain-free 480 km rides. The windscreen offers decent protection from wind and debris, though taller riders might find it insufficient at higher speeds.
Storage options are limited to aftermarket accessories, but the bike’s design supports panniers and top boxes for extended tours. The pillion seat, with grab rails and footrests, is well-suited for two-up riding, making it a versatile choice for couples or friends. Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to Suzuki’s oil-cooled engine and widespread service network, though some owners note higher upkeep costs for frequent riders due to chain and brake pad replacements.
Close Competitors
The Suzuki V-Strom SX operates in a fiercely competitive segment, facing off against several capable rivals. Here’s an in-depth look at its closest competitors:
Royal Enfield Himalayan
The Royal Enfield Himalayan (pre-450 model, now discontinued) was a direct rival, priced around ₹2.16 lakh (ex-showroom). With a 411cc engine producing 24.3 bhp, it offered more displacement and torque (32 Nm), excelling in off-road conditions thanks to its long-travel suspension, spoked wheels, and switchable ABS. However, it lagged in refinement and fuel efficiency compared to the V-Strom SX, and its heavier 199 kg kerb weight made it less nimble. The V-Strom SX counters with a lower price, better mileage, and a lighter build, appealing to riders prioritizing road touring over rugged trails.
KTM 250 Adventure
Priced at approximately ₹2.41 lakh (ex-showroom), the KTM 250 Adventure is a premium competitor with a 248cc liquid-cooled engine delivering 29.5 bhp and 24 Nm. Its off-road credentials are superior, with adjustable suspension, a higher ground clearance (200 mm), and a more aggressive riding stance. However, it commands a ₹25,000 premium over the V-Strom SX, and its mileage (around 30 kmpl) is less impressive. The V-Strom SX offers better value for road-focused riders, though it can’t match the KTM’s off-road versatility or power.
Yezdi Adventure
The Yezdi Adventure, priced at ₹2.09 lakh (ex-showroom), brings a 334cc engine with 29.9 bhp and 29.8 Nm to the table. Its rugged design, spoked wheels, and higher ground clearance (220 mm) make it a strong off-road contender. It also undercuts the V-Strom SX slightly in price. However, its heavier 198 kg weight, lower mileage (around 28 kmpl), and less refined engine tilt the scales in favor of the Suzuki for touring and urban use. The V-Strom SX’s smoother gearbox and lighter handling give it an edge on highways.
Hero XPulse 200 4V
At ₹1.51 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hero XPulse 200 4V is a budget-friendly alternative with a 199.6cc engine producing 18.9 bhp and 17.35 Nm. Its lightweight 157 kg frame, 21-inch front wheel, and 220 mm ground clearance make it a capable off-roader. However, its lower power output and lack of touring-oriented features like a windscreen or Bluetooth connectivity limit its appeal compared to the V-Strom SX. The Suzuki justifies its higher price with superior performance, refinement, and comfort.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Suzuki V-Strom SX excels as a versatile, budget-friendly tourer. Its strengths include a refined engine, excellent fuel efficiency, comfortable ergonomics, and a feature-rich digital cluster—all wrapped in a striking ADV design. It’s an ideal choice for riders seeking a reliable daily commuter that doubles as a weekend explorer. However, it falls short in off-road capability due to its stiff suspension, alloy wheels, and lack of advanced off-road features. The tall seat height and moderate braking performance are additional drawbacks for some riders.
Market Positioning and Value
Suzuki positions the V-Strom SX as an entry-level adventure tourer that bridges the gap between naked street bikes and hardcore ADVs. Priced at ₹2.16 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts the KTM 250 Adventure and Yezdi Adventure while offering more sophistication than the Hero XPulse 200 4V. Its Japanese build quality, reliability, and Suzuki’s service network add to its appeal, making it a compelling value proposition in the 250cc segment. The 2025 updates, including OBD-2B compliance and a new colour option, keep it relevant in an evolving market.
Final Thoughts!
The Suzuki V-Strom SX is a well-rounded motorcycle that caters to the growing demand for affordable adventure tourers in India. It combines the practicality of a commuter with the spirit of a tourer, delivering a balanced package that’s hard to fault at its price point. While it doesn’t rival the off-road prowess of the KTM 250 Adventure or Yezdi Adventure, its focus on road touring, comfort, and efficiency makes it a standout choice. For riders seeking a dependable, stylish, and economical bike for city streets and highway adventures, the V-Strom SX is a worthy contender that proudly carries the Suzuki badge.
