Suzuki Gixxer 250 Vs Italika 250z

The quarter-liter cruiser segment has witnessed an intense rivalry between two formidable contenders: the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and the Italika 250Z. Both motorcycles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and affordability, but which one emerges as the true king of the road? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of these two machines to determine which one reigns supreme.

Engine and Performance

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 boasts a 249cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that delivers 26.5 horsepower at 9,300 rpm and 22.6 Nm of torque at 7,300 rpm. The Italika 250Z, on the other hand, utilizes a 249.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 26 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 22.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. While both engines offer similar power output, the Gixxer 250 has a slight edge in torque, which translates into better low-end acceleration.

Design and Styling

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 exudes a sleek and sporty aesthetic, with sharp lines and aggressive angles. Its muscular fuel tank, sculpted seat, and angular headlamp give it a commanding presence on the road. The Italika 250Z, in contrast, adopts a more classic cruiser design, featuring a low-slung stance, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a round headlamp. The chrome accents and pinstriping add a touch of vintage charm to the motorcycle.

Handling and Suspension

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is renowned for its nimble handling, thanks to its lightweight chassis and responsive suspension. The telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension provide a comfortable ride and ensure stability even in challenging road conditions. The Italika 250Z, while not as agile as the Gixxer 250, offers a more relaxed and cruiser-like handling experience. Its conventional telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers prioritize comfort over sharp handling.

Braking and Safety

Both the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Italika 250Z come equipped with disc brakes on both wheels. The Gixxer 250 features a single-channel ABS system, providing enhanced safety in emergency braking situations. The Italika 250Z, however, does not offer ABS as standard. In terms of other safety features, both motorcycles include a digital instrument cluster with essential information such as speed, fuel level, and gear position.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 40 kilometers per liter. The Italika 250Z, on the other hand, has a smaller fuel tank capacity and a slightly lower claimed mileage of 35 kilometers per liter. As a result, the Gixxer 250 offers a longer range between fill-ups.

Price and Availability

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is priced at around $2,500, while the Italika 250Z is available for a more affordable $2,000. The Gixxer 250 is widely available in both the domestic and international markets, while the Italika 250Z is primarily sold in Mexico and Latin America.

The Verdict

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Italika 250Z are both competent quarter-liter cruisers that offer a unique blend of style, performance, and affordability. However, the Gixxer 250 emerges as the superior choice for those seeking a motorcycle with a more powerful engine, better handling, and enhanced safety features. Its sleek design, responsive handling, and fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for both daily commutes and weekend rides.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which motorcycle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 has a slightly more powerful engine than the Italika 250Z, with 26.5 horsepower compared to 26 horsepower.

Q: Which motorcycle has better handling?
A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is known for its nimble handling and responsive suspension, making it more agile than the Italika 250Z.

Q: Which motorcycle has a longer range?
A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 has a larger fuel tank and better fuel efficiency, giving it a longer range between fill-ups compared to the Italika 250Z.

Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Italika 250Z is more affordable than the Suzuki Gixxer 250, with a price of around $2,000 compared to $2,500.

Q: Which motorcycle is more widely available?
A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is more widely available in both the domestic and international markets compared to the Italika 250Z, which is primarily sold in Mexico and Latin America.