I just thought I would add a ride report of my 2006 Suzuki RM250 now that I've had some time on it for anyone that's interested.
Motor: This is the best motor I've ever ridden on a stock bike. It starts pulling from just above idle, transitions smoothly into a very good midrange, and keeps on pulling through a strong top-end with decent over-rev. There's no big hit anywhere in the powerband and, with a little throttle control, it's easy to find traction in nearly any situation.
Suspension: Excellent on both ends. Smooth and supple in the initial stroke with good bottoming resistance (I weigh 190lbs. +gear). What's really surprising is how well it works for trail riding. It's soft enough to handle rocks and roots very well for an mx bike. But not so soft that it rides low in, or blows through, the stroke.
Handling: Turns as well as, or better than, anything I've ever ridden. Unfortunately, precise turning comes at a cost- headshake. It's nothing compared to an early '90s CR, or even my brother's '02 200EXC, but it can shake a little on rough ground at high speed(no tankslappers yet though). All things considered it's worth it for turning that's second to none.
Odds and ends:
Ergonomics: Fits me perfectly(6'0"). Although it should be noted that I like a relatively compact bike for someone my size. I've heard of some taller riders feeling cramped.
Brakes: Strong but not grabby. Solid brakes, no surprises but nothing outstanding.
Clutch: Pretty good. No slipping or dragging so far. I don't have a problem with the clutch pull either, but some people say it's feels a bit heavy to them(hydro clutch guys).
Build quality: Very good. This is the first Suzuki offroad bike I've owned in a long time, and they've come a long way. Renthal Fatbar is standard, and has a good bend for my tastes.
I'm primarily comparing this bike to my '03 KX250, which was and is a great bike(reliable too). But the RM is just a much better fit for me. The power is broader, smoother, and less tiring, but without being boring like the four-strokes. Overall, I give this bike two thumbs up, unless I can figure out a way to grow more thumbs. :cool: :cool:
Motor: This is the best motor I've ever ridden on a stock bike. It starts pulling from just above idle, transitions smoothly into a very good midrange, and keeps on pulling through a strong top-end with decent over-rev. There's no big hit anywhere in the powerband and, with a little throttle control, it's easy to find traction in nearly any situation.
Suspension: Excellent on both ends. Smooth and supple in the initial stroke with good bottoming resistance (I weigh 190lbs. +gear). What's really surprising is how well it works for trail riding. It's soft enough to handle rocks and roots very well for an mx bike. But not so soft that it rides low in, or blows through, the stroke.
Handling: Turns as well as, or better than, anything I've ever ridden. Unfortunately, precise turning comes at a cost- headshake. It's nothing compared to an early '90s CR, or even my brother's '02 200EXC, but it can shake a little on rough ground at high speed(no tankslappers yet though). All things considered it's worth it for turning that's second to none.
Odds and ends:
Ergonomics: Fits me perfectly(6'0"). Although it should be noted that I like a relatively compact bike for someone my size. I've heard of some taller riders feeling cramped.
Brakes: Strong but not grabby. Solid brakes, no surprises but nothing outstanding.
Clutch: Pretty good. No slipping or dragging so far. I don't have a problem with the clutch pull either, but some people say it's feels a bit heavy to them(hydro clutch guys).
Build quality: Very good. This is the first Suzuki offroad bike I've owned in a long time, and they've come a long way. Renthal Fatbar is standard, and has a good bend for my tastes.
I'm primarily comparing this bike to my '03 KX250, which was and is a great bike(reliable too). But the RM is just a much better fit for me. The power is broader, smoother, and less tiring, but without being boring like the four-strokes. Overall, I give this bike two thumbs up, unless I can figure out a way to grow more thumbs. :cool: :cool:
