Will long distance travel be feasible on my new GN250 learners bike?

**Normandy** · 28th March 2012, 18:36

Hi there, I recently purchased a Suzuki GN250 2007 that has done 23,000 KM.
This is my first 250 motorbike and I decided to get it instead of the Yamaha Scorpio 225 because I prefer the cruiser style and it looks like it may be more comfortable during longer trips.
People keep telling me that the GN250 is not suitable for long distance trips though, due to it becoming slightly uncomfortable to ride when reaching speeds over 100kmph and also because you will be stuck at this speed on open roads which is awkward.

But surely If I have the ambition and patience, is the suzuki GN250 capable of long distance trips of around 4 hours? (Auckland to Rotorua for example) Sure it wont be a luxurious ride like a heavy 650cc cruiser, I understand this but I cant see much of an issue with riding my 250cc to enjoy the scenery. Perhaps Il just have to stop more often to stretch my legs?
Anyone had any interesting experiences with first bikes on long distance trips? Any unexpected issues or inconveniences?

Thanks

**Katman** · 28th March 2012, 18:39

It will do long distance travelling perfectly fine.

It may well take longer to get there than other bikes - but who cares?

**Ocean1** · 28th March 2012, 18:45

It'll be fine.

Just do it eh? Then you'll know, and you can tell "people" all about it.

**jrandom** · 28th March 2012, 18:49

Originally Posted by Normandy

Hi there, I recently purchased a Suzuki GN250 2007 that has done 23,000 KM.
This is my first 250 motorbike and I decided to get it instead of the Yamaha Scorpio 225 because I prefer the cruiser style and it looks like it may be more comfortable during longer trips.
People keep telling me that the GN250 is not suitable for long distance trips though, due to it becoming slightly uncomfortable to ride when reaching speeds over 100kmph and also because you will be stuck at this speed on open roads which is awkward.

I've done Auckland to Wellington, return, in a weekend, on a Scorpio, in the middle of winter. No worries. Did give me a bit of a sore tailbone, which I fixed with flatter handlebars before I did it again.

You'll be sweet. Go hard.

Nobody actually cares about hearing the story, but DOING it is great fun.

**mattian** · 28th March 2012, 19:36

Bikes were made to be ridden. Just stick to the slow lane and anticipate people trying to get by you now and then. (watch your mirrors) You will be fine.

**nzspokes** · 28th March 2012, 19:43

Just ride it and you will be fine. Come to Sass or go to Nass for some extra learning.

And consider this ride, there will be lots of 250s on it. http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/sh...riday-4-May%29

**Taz** · 28th March 2012, 19:48

I rode the yamaha equivalent (the SR250) from auckland to motueka in a day and would again if I had to. You'll be fine. Regular oil and filter changes are good insurance.

**avgas** · 28th March 2012, 20:02

Some of my most relaxing touring has been on GN125/250's. They are fantastic on long rides if you don't have a strict timetable.

**FJRider** · 28th March 2012, 20:16

It may pay to do shorter rides first (2-3 hours) to and from your home first. It will give you practice on the open road, and give you a better understanding of what you will need to take/wear/know on longer trips.

T-bars fitted and a sheepskin will make your life easier too ...

**nzspokes** · 28th March 2012, 20:32

Originally Posted by FJRider

It may pay to do shorter rides first (2-3 hours) to and from your home first. It will give you practice on the open road, and give you a better understanding of what you will need to take/wear/know on longer trips.

T-bars fitted and a sheepskin will make your life easier too ...

I saw the sheepskin on the pics of your bike, whats it like in the rain?

**mossy1200** · 28th March 2012, 20:37

Let logic decide.

Bike has done 25tho km and still goes.Thats alot of 4 hr trips already.
More engine wear is done on short cold engine trips.

If you dont over push it and have a few stops whats the difference between a long ride and lots of short ones.
Do 90-100 and have a break every tank of gas.

Lube that chain before you leave and check oil level.Should be a good ride.

**FJRider** · 28th March 2012, 21:22

Originally Posted by nzspokes

I saw the sheepskin on the pics of your bike, whats it like in the rain?

Fine ... I give it a wash every six months, if it needs it or not. I've had it for about six years ...

There are more things to worry about in the rain than the sheepskin.

**nzspokes** · 28th March 2012, 21:48

Originally Posted by FJRider

Fine ... I give it a wash every six months, if it needs it or not. I've had it for about six years ...

There are more things to worry about in the rain than the sheepskin.

Hmmmm, hey are on TM for $70. May give one a try.

**FJRider** · 28th March 2012, 21:53

Originally Posted by nzspokes

Hmmmm, hey are on TM for $70. May give one a try.

$70 ... I'll sell you mine for $50 ...

Seriously ... An off-cut of an old sheepskin rug (or any bit of sheepskin), a bit of elastic, and a needle and thread. You have what you need. It took me 30 minutes to make. Another 2 minutes to fit.

**nzspokes** · 28th March 2012, 21:57

Originally Posted by FJRider

$70 ... I'll sell you mine for $50 ...

Seriously ... An off-cut of an old sheepskin rug (or any bit of sheepskin), a bit of elastic, and a needle and thread. You have what you need. It took me 30 minutes to make. Another 2 minutes to fit.

Fair call. I will look for some. May put a little extra padding under it to.