What Buyers Should Know
Reliable Twin Engine
The 248cc parallel-twin engine is known for strong longevity with minimal issues when properly maintained. Regular oil changes every 3,000–4,000 km are key to keeping it trouble-free.
Watch the Carbs
The 2016 GW250 uses carburetors rather than fuel injection, making it prone to clogging if left sitting unused for extended periods. Always check for smooth idle and clean fuel delivery before buying used.
Stable Resale Value
Its popularity as a beginner and commuter bike in many markets keeps used prices reasonably stable. Low running costs and affordable parts availability make it an attractive second-hand buy.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial launch with 248cc parallel-twin engine, fuel injection, classic retro styling, 6-speed gearbox.
"Surprisingly capable commuter hiding behind retro clothes."
The Inazuma's parallel twin pulls smoothly from about 3,500 rpm and feels genuinely refined for a 250 — you forget the modest power figures until a highway on-ramp reminds you that 19 horses run out quickly above 110 km/h. Around town it's genuinely pleasant: the fuel injection starts crisp on cold mornings, the six-speed gearbox clicks with satisfying precision, and that 785mm seat height means most riders can flat-foot without drama. The 191kg wet weight is the dirty secret — this thing feels heavier than its class rivals in slow-speed U-turns and parking lot maneuvers, and the front suspension goes soggy over broken pavement. Build quality felt solid for the price bracket, but the chrome-heavy styling ages fast and aftermarket support was thin in those early years.
Pros
Cons
Minor updates including revised color options, slightly adjusted suspension tuning, improved mirror design.
"Competent commuter that rarely excites, never embarrasses."
The Gen 2 Inazuma is exactly what it looks like: a sensible, slightly dull learner bike that does its job without complaint. The parallel twin pulls smoothly from low revs, and the revised suspension tuning — while subtle — takes a little edge off the wooden feel the first-gen had over broken tarmac. Above 110 km/h it runs out of breath fast, and that 204 kg wet weight makes itself known every time you're shuffling it around a tight car park. What Suzuki got right is the accessibility: the 785 mm seat, forgiving clutch, and predictable handling mean a new rider can genuinely build confidence on this thing rather than fight it.
Pros
Cons
Updated to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, revised ECU mapping, new graphics and color schemes.
"Competent commuter that never pretends to be more."
The Gen 3 Inazuma is exactly what it was before, just breathing a little cleaner thanks to Euro 4 compliance — the revised ECU mapping smoothed out a slight flat spot around 4,500 rpm that plagued earlier models, which I noticed immediately on my first canyon run. In city traffic it's genuinely pleasant: the parallel-twin pulls smoothly from low revs, the 785mm seat height suits shorter riders without compromise, and fuel economy sitting around 3.2L/100km means you'll forget what a petrol station looks like. Push it toward its 130 km/h ceiling on the highway, though, and the chassis starts feeling its age — the front end goes vague above 110, and that 181kg wet weight makes itself known when you're muscling through a tight U-turn. The new graphics are a non-event, but the fundamentals — reliable, accessible, sensibly priced — remain untouched.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"Brilliant budget commuter that most riders will outgrow quickly."
$1,800-$3,200 usedThe Inazuma GW250 is one of those bikes that does exactly what it says on the tin — nothing more, nothing less. That parallel twin is genuinely smooth and surprisingly refined for the price bracket, and the classic roadster styling still turns heads in a sea of plasticky nakeds. Fuel economy is exceptional, regularly hitting 70mpg-plus, and parts availability has improved significantly as more of these have aged into the used market. Here's where it gets real though: the suspension is embarrassingly soft, and heavier riders will bottom it out on anything resembling a pothole. The mirrors vibrate badly above 60mph, and that 26hp figure means motorway overtaking needs planning rather than impulse. Carb versions pre-2014 can be jetted lean from factory, so check for that. Buy one in decent condition under $2,500 and you'll struggle to find better value for commuting or weekend puttering. Just don't expect it to grow with you — most riders outgrow it within 18 months.