2004 Suzuki GZ250 review from United States of America

I knocked off a mirror when I squeezed by in the garage; easily replaced. No significant problems of any kind.

I bought my GZ250 from a friend who bought it new 4 months earlier. He moved up to a Honda Shadow, also bought used. I've been riding the '250 for about 18 months. It is my first motorcycle. I've used it primarily for driving in town, short commutes of 2-7 miles one way, and occasional sightseeing trips of up to about 20 miles.

I only get 50-55 mpg. I've not been able to figure out why my mileage is so much lower than others report.

My daughter (college freshman) rides two up with me onto campus. It's fine for short runs.

I took a short trip of about 100 miles a year ago. The seat becomes very uncomfortable after more than an hour or so of riding. After three hours, you know exactly the location of every wrinkle in your undergarments. The vibration after a couple of hours left my hands a bit numb.

I've taken it on the interstate twice; it simply does not have the power to maintain 70 mph, especially on any kind of a hill. However, it manages well up to 55-60 mph on two lane highways.

It is not detected by stoplight sensors: if a car does not pull up behind me, I have to wait for the light to change. That's to be expected with a 250 cc engine.

Having said that: I ride it every chance I get. It's a lot of fun and looks good too.