Suzuki Inazuma review, road test

Suzuki strikes again, with its first Indian quarter-litre, the Inazuma. Can the new bike tap into and electrify our 250cc segment?

Published on Apr 01, 2014 06:05:00 PM

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Suzuki Inazuma.

The Inazuma is built around a semi-double-cradle-type steel frame, supported by telescopic front forks and a hydraulic monoshock at the rear, with a box-section steel swingarm. The kerb weight is a shade on the heavier side, at 183kg, which goes against the motorcycle.

On the bright side, the Inazuma’s riding position ranks amongst its salient strengths, fairly upright and thoroughly comfortable whether commuting or on a long-distance ride. The Suzuki comes with a near-straight handlebar and nice, forward-set pegs. The riding saddle feels a touch too soft, but is long and wide enough. We rode the Inazuma over smoothly paved as well as broken roads, and found it to have fine ride quality, good handling, excellent straight-line stability and a planted feel. IRC brand tyres provide good grip, but don’t expect point and shoot cornering ability, which is hampered due to the motorcycle’s heavy feel. The Inazuma does well to feel composed and secure to ride at all times, even when cornering hard, where it always feels steady, even if you’re hard on the gas.

There’s a 290mm disc brake in front and a 240mm disc at the rear, both of which work well, with a nice, progressive feel at the lever. The absence of ABS, however, is a pity, more so because the bike is being sold in India at a high price point. The Inazuma stopped from 80kph in 27.38 meters during our braking tests.