Suzuki Burgman 250 cc scooter: Testing the Suzuki Burgman, John Wheeler found car-like comfort - but do dress for the occasion
There can hardly be a motorist who has not come to realise that in these days when the car seems to be king, that there could be more to life than monarchy.Looking at the traffic flow in and around our towns, cities and suburbs, one cannot help wondering why so many people, travelling on their own, see any advantage in being the sole occupant in an armoured, mobile sitting room. Long journey times, the problem of finding parking space, and its cost, simply add to life's stresses and strains.
This is not to say that the car is "bad". In its place: taking a number of people, carrying large loads, and in the worst of wild weather, it has clear advantages. But when it comes to the business of taking one person from A to B, especially in heavy traffic, its advantages are minimal.
Recently we tested the 250 cc Suzuki Burgman scooter. This is one of the Burgman range of scooters, ranging from 125 cc up to their luxurious 650 cc model. These days 250 cc hardly classes as a "big" scooter. But, unlike the more common 50 cc to 125 cc machines, a 250 cc combines relatively low capital and running costs with sufficient performance not to seem under-powered within our legal limits, not even on motorways. It also has enough power to carry a pillion passenger.
The AN 250 Burgman has attractive lines, and offers as near car-like comfort as you can get on two wheels. The seating position, simple controls and dashboard layout give the machine a distinct car-like feel. To complete the car-like feel, there is even a parking brake. The well-placed mirrors give a better rearwards view than most cars.
Add to that continuously variable transmission (CVT), essentially "automatic" transition, the freedom from the necessity to bother with a clutch and gear changes, and even mundane journeys become a pleasure.
The simplicity of control, literally "twist and go", and much better visibility means that you can better concentrate on everything that is going on around you.
There are some downsides. You cannot expect as much luggage space as with a car, but the lockable under-seat compartment is large enough to take half-a-week's shopping, or stow your riding gear. You are more exposed to the weather. The windscreen gives a very good degree of protection, but proper riding gear is really essential.
Sensible riders wear the right clothing, not just a protective jacket, but the trousers as well. It seems the fashion for most scooter riders to protect the torso and risk their legs. Clearly many do not appreciate how long skin grafts can take. There is one significant advantage in wearing the right gear. You put it on in the warmth of home and take the warmth with you. Much more comfortable than getting into a cold car on a frosty morning. Those of us who ride all year round, wearing the proper clothing, insist that one is warmer and more comfortable on two wheels on a winter's day than in a car.
Machines like the AN 250 Burgman offer the same degree of mechanical reliability as the modern car. Being able to go about the daily round and common task in half the time a car would take, at a fraction of the cost, free of parking problems and expense has much to commend it. Add to that the distinct pleasure of trickling safely past hundreds of grounded cars.
The Suzuki Burgman was designed with motorists in mind. This 250 cc version makes a lot of sense. Taking to two wheels does not mean loving your car any the less. Your car will last longer and cost less if it is not used inappropriately. Your two-wheel travel should mean more quality time, at less cost.
TechSpec
ENGINE: Single cylinder 249 cc 4-stroke, 4-valve, SOHC, liquid-cooled. Torque 33Nm. Electric starter, electronic ignition.
CHASSIS: Unit construction. Telescopic, oil damped coil spring front suspension. Link type, gas/oil-damped seven-way adjustable rear suspension. Front 260 mm & rear 210 mm disk brakes. 13" wheels.
DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase 1,590 mm. Weight (dry) 171kg. Fuel 13.0 litres. Seat height 695 mm
PRICE: 6,650.