The newly-launched V-Strom SX 250 looks promising on paper. However, we have to ask this question; is it enough to topple the well-established Austrian 250 ADV?
In India, the 250cc ADV segment has been ruled by the KTM 250 ADV for quite some time now. Not to forget, the price-bracket and the engine segment it operates in (start price at INR 2.50 lakh and 250cc-300cc), the closest rival of the KTM 250, has always been the BMW G 310 GS. However, there is a new player in town; the Suzuki V-Strom SX 250.
The brochure of the Suzuki SX 250 is compelling and so is its price-tag. However, most Indian buyers love numbers, i.e., the more the number, the better the motorcycle. On the other hand, Indians also love smaller numerical figures. Confused? We have clarified the statement in the following paragraphs.
More the number, the better the motorcycle
Since this is a spec-sheet comparison and not a performance one, the KTM 250 ADV with its 250cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit that makes a peak power of 29.5bhp and 24Nm is the better the engine. Compared to KTM, the Suzuki V-Strom’s unit is a leniently powered one with generous power figures such as 26.1bhp and 22Nm at hand. In short, the KTM has an upper hand in the engine department.
ADV elements
The KTM 250 ADV has a ground clearance of 200mm with a seat height of 855mm whereas the V-Strom has a clearance of 205mm and two optional seat heights of 835/815mm. However, the weight of the ADV 250 is 177kgs, whereas the V-Strom is lighter at 167kgs. Although it is crucial to remember that irrespective of more weight, the ADV 250 generates more power.
Overall, the ADV elements are similar in both the motorcycles but the KTM is a winner because of its USD fork at the front with suspension travel of 170mm whereas Suzuki V-Strom’s rumoured 120mm.
Loaded with tech
The two motorcycles are loaded with tech such as a fully digital instrument cluster. However, the list of information displayed on the two motorcycles is different, but overall, for tech-savvy people, the cluster toggling experience is soothing. However, while the 250 ADV features a switchable ABS, the V-Strom misses out on that which is a massive letdown.
Last but not the least, in the second paragraph, we mentioned Indians love small numerical figures because, in terms of pricing, the V-Strom is more affordable at INR 2.12 lakh compared to 250 ADV’s INR 2.35 lakh.
