The Suzuki Grasstracker 250 has been cherished by many riders for its classic design and nimble performance. Especially suited for city riding and touring, its simple design allows it to be found at relatively affordable prices in the used market. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners and budget-conscious riders.
Having owned a Grasstracker myself, I’ve enjoyed it for a wide range of activities, from urban commuting to weekend trips. It’s a straightforward, user-friendly bike that reveals new charms with every ride. Maintenance is also a breeze, and its high customization potential adds to its appeal. For those considering a purchase, I hope they experience its ease of use and great value firsthand.
Suzuki Grasstracker 250 Basic Information
- Model: Suzuki Grasstracker
- Engine Displacement: 250cc
- Engine: Single-cylinder, 4-stroke
- Maximum Power: Approximately 20 horsepower
- Cooling System: Air-cooled
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
Suzuki Grasstracker 250 Specifications
Dimensions and weight | Dimensions | Overall length | 1,995 mm |
Overall width | 900 mm | ||
Overall height | 1,130 mm | ||
Wheelbase | 1,325 mm | ||
Weight | 124 kg (Dry) | ||
Engine | Engine type | 4-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC | |
Engine displacement | 249 cm³ | ||
Bore x stroke | 72.0 mm × 61.2 mm | ||
Maximum power | 15kW(20PS) / 7,500rpm | ||
Maximum torque | 21N-m / 6,000rpm | ||
Transmission | 5-speed constant mesh | ||
Front tire size | 3.00-18 47S | ||
Rear tire size | 120/80-17 61S |
Features of the Grasstracker250
- Style and Performance: The Grasstracker is designed based on the street tracker style, featuring a simple yet classic appearance with a round headlight, slim fuel tank, and flat seat.
- Agile Performance: Its slim and compact design makes it user-friendly for beginners.
- Comfortable Ride: With a lightweight body and simple structure, it’s easy to maneuver in urban settings and tight winding roads. The engine’s abundant low-end torque allows for smooth riding even in stop-and-go city traffic. The upright riding position helps reduce fatigue during long tours, and the seat height is set at a comfortable level for many riders.
- Ease of Maintenance: The single-cylinder engine makes maintenance relatively simple, allowing riders to perform oil and plug changes themselves.
- Variation Models: The Grasstracker also has a variant called the Big Boy, which features slightly larger tires and a design that leans more towards off-road capability.
Pros and Cons of the Grasstracker
I have summarized the commonly mentioned pros and cons of the Grasstracker250.
Pros
Timeless Design: The classic tracker style is loved across generations.
Lightweight and User-Friendly: Its low seat height and easy handling make it suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
Great Fuel Efficiency: Thanks to its air-cooled engine and lightweight build. (The actual fuel efficiency of the carburetor model is around 30-35 km/L)
High Cargo Capacity: The flat seat design makes it easy to carry luggage, and additional custom parts can enhance cargo capacity.
Customization Potential: Its simple and classic design allows for diverse customization options.
Low Theft Risk: Its low price point in the used market reduces the likelihood of theft.
Cons
Not Ideal for Highway Riding: Riders may feel a lack of power on highways or during long-distance tours. While it can reach speeds of 100 km/h, the engine tends to produce significant noise, and noticeable vibrations occur at higher speeds. To increase the top speed, many riders opt for a popular customization: replacing the stock 15-tooth front sprocket with a 16-tooth one.
To increase the top speed, many riders opt for a popular customization: replacing the stock 15-tooth front sprocket with a 16-tooth one.
Limited Off-Road Capability: While it looks off-road ready, its actual performance is more suited for city riding and light dirt paths.
Small Fuel Tank Capacity: Earlier models had a range of about 160-180 km, requiring frequent refueling during long tours. However, this improved with the 2009 model change, increasing the tank capacity from 6L to 8.4L.
Minimal Equipment: With a starting price of ¥384,000, cost-cutting is evident, featuring only a speedometer and no tachometer, along with the absence of a trip meter, which means riders need to track their mileage manually.
Limited Tire Options: Being tube-type tires, options are restricted compared to tubeless tires, with sports tires mainly limited to Dunlop’s GP SERIES TT100GP.
Differences by Year and Model of the Grasstracker250
The Suzuki Grasstracker 250 was produced from 2000 to 2018, with minor improvements and specification changes across different model years. There is also a variant called the Grasstracker Big Boy, each with unique features. Here’s a closer look at the differences by model year:
Differences by Model Year
- 2000 Model (Initial Release): Launched in 2000, the Grasstracker featured a classic street tracker style. Basic design elements like frame color and tank paint were simple and basic.
- 2001-2003 Models: This period saw an increase in color variations, with minor changes to exhaust shape and silencer design. Starting from the 2002 model, the starting method changed from kick/start combo to electric start only.
- 2004-2008 Models: Minor changes occurred post-2004, introducing more color variations and graphic designs. The seat shape and meter design were refined for a more polished look. The engine transitioned from SOHC 4-valve to SOHC 2-valve, and the exhaust was modified from a dual-pipe to a single pipe.
- 2009 and Later: In response to environmental regulations, the engine was updated to meet emission standards, equipped with the ST250 engine. This change transitioned from carburetor to fuel injection, improving fuel efficiency and adjusting torque characteristics for better low to mid-range performance. The fuel tank capacity also increased from 6L to 8.4L.
Differences from Big Boy
The Grasstracker Big Boy has several significant differences from the standard model:
- Tire Size: The Big Boy features larger wheels—19 inches in the front and 18 inches in the rear—enhancing stability for off-road and dirt riding, while the standard Grasstracker has smaller wheels focused on street performance.
- Suspension Setup: The Big Boy comes with a higher suspension setup for better handling on mild off-road conditions and bumps.
- Riding Position and Comfort: The Big Boy has a slightly higher seat height (around 790 mm) and a more upright riding position, making it more suited for off-road riding. Conversely, the standard Grasstracker, with a lower seat height (around 750 mm), is designed for enhanced stability and comfort during urban rides.
- Color Variations: The Big Boy often features bolder color schemes and graphics, providing a distinct visual appeal.
Which Model Should You Choose?
When selecting a Grasstracker model, consider whether you need a kickstarter, as this feature is only available on early models and pre-2008 Big Boys.
Next, decide between a carbureted model (2000-2008) known for simple maintenance and retro feel versus a fuel-injected model (2009 and later) with better start-up and fuel efficiency, particularly in colder climates.
Additionally, the fuel tank capacity increase in the FI models extends touring capabilities, though it slightly alters the bike’s sleek appearance.
As you choose the model that fits your needs, carefully consider features like the kickstarter, tank capacity, and design preferences.
Discovering the Charms of the Grasstracker
After riding the Grasstracker 250, I found it to be an exceptionally easy bike to handle, especially in urban settings and on tours, where its agility truly shines. While it has its drawbacks, enhancing the bike through customization adds to the joy of being a rider. Initially, I considered it solely for city riding, but over time, its appeal grew, and I now take it on tours across the country, fully loaded with camping gear.
One of the Grasstracker’s standout features is its high customization potential. Many of its shortcomings can be addressed through modifications, and its simple design makes maintenance accessible for beginners. Furthermore, its running costs are lower than those of other bikes, allowing for long-term enjoyment.
Notably, its good cargo capacity makes it a reliable companion for camping trips, making the Grasstracker an ideal bike for solo riders who enjoy a leisurely pace.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Grasstracker 250 is an excellent model for both everyday commuting and casual touring. Lightweight and easy to handle, its classic and timeless style makes it a bike you can love for many years. It is also perfect for touring camps and solo rides, making it a user-friendly choice for a wide range of riders, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts.
The Grasstracker is primarily designed for street riding, featuring an easy-to-handle nature and a classic, refined appearance.
The Grasstracker Big Boy, on the other hand, is designed with a more off-road focus, featuring different tire sizes and suspension, along with a slightly more robust look and performance.
Both models are lightweight and easy to maneuver in the 250cc class, allowing for a wide range of enjoyment from city riding to touring. When deciding which model suits your needs, it’s best to consider your riding style and preferred design.
Additionally, specifications may vary by model year, so it’s important to choose one that fits your preferences. Be sure to consider factors such as the presence of a kick starter, the choice between carbureted and fuel-injected models, and differences in tank capacity to find the ideal Grasstracker for your intended use!