Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 250
16.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
SUZUKI GIXXER SF 250/ GIXXER 250
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
||
| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Oil Cooled |
| Displacement | 248.77 cc | 249cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valve, Twin Spark, FI | 4-Cycle, 1-cylinder, Oil cooled |
| Power | 19.85 kW (27 PS) @ 8,500 rpm | 26.13 bhp @ 9300 rpm |
| Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 12 L |
| Mileage | 35.03 Kmpl | 38 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
||
| Kerb Weight | 180 | 156-161 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 740-805 |
Brakes & Suspension |
||
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc with Abs | Disc 300 mm Front 2 Piston |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork, 43 mm | Telescopic |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc with Abs | Disc 220 mm Real 1 Piston |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono-shock, 110 mm travel | Monoshock |
Tyres & Wheels |
||
| Front Tyre | 100/80–17 Tubeless | 110/70R17M/C 54S |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70–17 Tubeless | 150/60R17M/C 66S |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
||
| Headlight | Full‑LED with AHO | LED |
Other Specifications |
||
| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | Maintenance free, 12V 6Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Citrus.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Triton-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-7.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Matte-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Glass-Sparkle-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Pearl-Glacier-White.avif |
| Cluster | Digital LCD w/ turn-by-turn navigation | — |
| Color Options | Canyon Red | #B32025 Sparkling Black | #1C1C1C Citrus Rush | #C7D300 | Met Triton Blue | #1F4FA3 Pearl Glacier White | #F2F2F2 Glass Sparkle Black | #0D0D0F Metallic Matte Black | #1C1C1C Met Mat Bordeaux Red/Metallic Matte Black | #6A1F2B, #1C1C1C |
| Cons | Heavier Than Most Rivals – The motorcycle's kerb weight is noticeably higher than many competing 250cc motorcycles, which can affect low-speed manoeuvrability. Engine Feels More Relaxed Than Sporty – While refined, the engine focuses on smoothness and usability rather than aggressive acceleration and high-rev excitement. Weight Noticeable in City Traffic – Frequent stop-and-go traffic and tight parking situations may require more effort compared to lighter motorcycles. Limited Fuel Tank Capacity for Touring – Although suitable for highway rides, the 13-litre fuel tank is smaller than what some touring-oriented riders may prefer. Feature Updates Have Been Gradual – Some competitors offer more advanced electronics, riding modes, or traction control systems depending on the price range. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better on Long Trips – The rear seat is adequate for daily use, but some passengers may prefer additional cushioning for extended journeys. Not as Agile as Lightweight Street Bikes – The motorcycle prioritizes stability and comfort, which means it can feel less nimble than lighter sport-oriented alternatives. Maintenance Costs Higher Than Entry-Level Commuters – Routine maintenance and consumables are generally more expensive than those of smaller-capacity commuter motorcycles. | Fuel tank capacity is modest, which limits long-distance range between fill-ups. It’s not built for rough off-road or hardcore touring - more suited for smooth roads and occasional rough patches. As a 250-class bike, performance is modest compared to larger motorcycles - may feel underpowered for those seeking outright speed or heavy touring. Rear suspension setup and seat may feel basic for very long rides or heavy pillion + luggage combos. Fuel efficiency and mileage will depend heavily on riding style - aggressive riding can reduce the “balanced” efficiency benefit. |
| Detailed Overview | Positioned as a sports tourer in the 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to accommodate both daily commuting and long-distance riding requirements. Drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the Dominar 400, the motorcycle combines touring-oriented ergonomics, premium hardware, and a liquid-cooled engine within a package intended for riders seeking versatility. Its design emphasizes stability, comfort, and practicality while incorporating features commonly associated with larger-capacity touring motorcycles. The Dominar 250 features a muscular and substantial appearance characterized by a sculpted fuel tank, split-seat layout, exposed perimeter frame, and LED lighting system. The front end incorporates a compact windscreen positioned above the LED headlamp, helping direct airflow around the rider during highway journeys. Sharp body panels and minimalistic graphics contribute to a modern design, while the overall proportions create a larger visual presence compared to many motorcycles in the quarter-litre category. The motorcycle’s styling reflects its touring-oriented purpose without adopting the aggressive ergonomics of a dedicated sport bike. Powering the Dominar 250 is a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 27 PS of power and 23.5 Nm of torque. Liquid cooling assists in maintaining stable operating temperatures during prolonged rides and varying weather conditions, while fuel injection helps ensure consistent throttle response and fuel delivery. The engine is tuned to provide a broad spread of usable power, making it suitable for city commuting, highway cruising, and overtaking manoeuvres. A six-speed transmission allows riders to utilize the available performance efficiently across different riding situations. The motorcycle is built around a perimeter frame chassis that contributes to structural rigidity and handling stability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. This combination is designed to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure over varying surfaces. The suspension tuning focuses on balancing comfort and control, enabling the motorcycle to manage both urban roads and extended highway journeys. The relatively long wheelbase further contributes to stability, particularly at higher speeds. Braking performance is provided by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS as standard. The anti-lock braking system helps prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations and assists riders in maintaining control on different road surfaces. The motorcycle also features an assist and slipper clutch, which reduces clutch lever effort and improves stability during rapid downshifts. The Dominar 250 incorporates several modern features aimed at improving rider convenience. A fully digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel level, trip information, gear position indication, and other ride-related data. A secondary display mounted near the fuel tank provides additional information and navigation-related functions. Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation support are available on recent versions, allowing smartphone integration for enhanced functionality. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. Rider comfort remains a key aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding position, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create an ergonomic layout suitable for longer journeys. The seat height of approximately 800 mm accommodates a wide range of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides adequate space for both rider and passenger. A 13-litre fuel tank further supports touring duties by offering a practical riding range between refuelling stops. With its liquid-cooled 248.77cc engine, premium suspension components, dual-channel ABS, navigation features, and touring-friendly ergonomics, the Bajaj Dominar 250 combines performance, comfort, and practicality in a package tailored to riders seeking a versatile 250cc sports tourer. | The Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF 250 are built around a 249cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces around 26.5 PS of power and 22.2 Nm of torque. The engine uses Suzuki’s oil-cooling system instead of a full liquid-cooling setup, which helps in maintaining temperature while keeping the overall design simpler. In real use, the power delivery feels linear, meaning it builds gradually rather than coming in sudden bursts, which makes the bike easier to ride in mixed conditions like city traffic and highways. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the gear ratios are spaced in a way that supports both low-speed riding and steady cruising. At city speeds, the bike doesn’t feel stressed, and on highways, it can maintain a consistent pace without frequent gear changes. The throttle response is predictable, which helps in smoother riding, especially for those who prefer a controlled feel over aggressive acceleration. In terms of chassis, both bikes use a diamond-type frame, which is designed to balance rigidity and comfort. The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. This setup is tuned more towards everyday road use rather than sporty or off-road riding. It absorbs regular road imperfections reasonably well, but sharper bumps and potholes are still noticeable, especially at higher speeds. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS. This adds a layer of safety during sudden braking or slippery conditions. The tyres are wide enough to provide decent grip on normal roads, though they are not specifically designed for aggressive cornering or track use. The main difference between the two versions lies in their design and riding posture. The Gixxer 250 is a naked motorcycle with a more upright seating position, making it feel slightly more relaxed in daily use. The Gixxer SF 250, on the other hand, comes with full fairing and clip-on style handlebars, which give it a slightly forward-leaning posture. However, it is not as aggressive as a typical supersport bike, so it remains manageable for longer rides. The bike comes with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays essential information such as speed, gear position, fuel level, and trip details. It also includes LED lighting for both headlamp and tail lamp. The fuel tank capacity is around 12 litres, which is average for this segment, offering a usable range for both city and occasional highway riding. Overall, the Gixxer 250 and SF 250 are built with a focus on simple engineering and usable performance, with specifications that aim to balance daily riding needs and occasional longer journeys. |
| Expert Review | Built around a 248.77cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to balance everyday usability with long-distance touring capability. The engine delivers smooth and predictable performance, with a strong emphasis on refinement and accessible power delivery rather than outright sportiness. Its perimeter frame, upside-down front forks, and rear monoshock contribute to stable handling and confident highway manners, while the upright riding position and well-cushioned seat support rider comfort during extended journeys. Dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster with navigation support add modern functionality, while the motorcycle's touring-friendly design allows riders to comfortably cover longer distances. The relatively high kerb weight provides stability at speed but can feel noticeable in congested traffic and low-speed manoeuvres. Overall, the Dominar 250 combines touring-oriented comfort, premium hardware, and practical performance within the 250cc sports tourer segment., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF 250 come across as motorcycles that have been tuned with Indian usage clearly in mind, rather than chasing outright performance figures. The 249cc engine feels smooth and predictable, which makes a difference in daily traffic where sudden power isn’t always useful. What stands out is how easy the bike is to ride without demanding too much attention from the rider, whether in the city or on short highway runs. The ergonomics are fairly practical, even on the faired version, so it doesn’t feel uncomfortable over longer durations. At the same time, the suspension and overall setup feel more suited to regular roads than aggressive riding or rough conditions., 4.2, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Dominar 250 suitable for touring? A: Yes. The comfortable ergonomics, stable chassis, windshield, and refined engine make it suitable for long-distance highway touring. Q: What mileage does the Dominar 250 deliver? A: Most owners report real-world fuel efficiency between 30–38 kmpl, depending on riding conditions, speed, and maintenance. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The seat height is approximately 800 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Dominar 250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with some basic riding experience can adapt to it comfortably, although the motorcycle's weight may require some familiarisation for complete beginners. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have Bluetooth connectivity and navigation? A: Yes. Recent versions offer Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation through the digital console. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can achieve approximately 130–140 km/h, depending on rider weight, weather, and road conditions. Q: How is the Dominar 250 different from the Dominar 400? A: The Dominar 250 uses a smaller engine, produces less power, and is generally more accessible for everyday riding, while the Dominar 400 offers stronger performance and higher touring capability. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have a slipper clutch? A: Yes. The motorcycle features an assist and slipper clutch, which helps reduce clutch effort and improves stability during downshifts. Q: Is the Dominar 250 comfortable for a pillion rider? A: Yes. The spacious rear seat and supportive grab rails provide reasonable comfort for passengers on daily rides and occasional tours. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: It is classified as a sports tourer motorcycle, combining touring comfort with everyday practicality and performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. Q: Does the Dominar 250 use the same engine as the KTM 250 Duke? A: The engine is derived from the same KTM-Bajaj platform but is tuned differently to suit the Dominar 250's touring-oriented character and riding dynamics. | Q: Is the Suzuki Gixxer 250 good for daily use in India? A: Yes, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is commonly used for daily riding because the engine is smooth and the riding posture is manageable. It doesn’t feel too aggressive, which helps in city traffic. Q: What is the real mileage of the Suzuki Gixxer 250? A: In real Indian riding conditions, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 usually gives around 30–35 km/l, depending on traffic and riding style. Q: Is the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 comfortable for long rides? A: The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 has a slightly leaned-forward posture, but it is not extreme. Many riders find it comfortable for short to medium highway rides. Q: Does the Suzuki Gixxer 250 feel underpowered? A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is not built for aggressive performance. It focuses more on smooth and usable power, so it may feel calm rather than fast. Q: What is the top speed of the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250? A: The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 can reach around 140–150 km/h under ideal conditions, though real-world speeds depend on road and riding conditions. Q: Is the Suzuki Gixxer 250 better than Yamaha R15 in daily use? A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is generally more comfortable and relaxed for daily riding, while the Yamaha R15 is more focused on sporty performance. Q: Does the Suzuki Gixxer 250 have heating issues? A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is generally well-managed in terms of heat, but like most bikes, some heat can be felt in heavy traffic. Q: What is the difference between Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF 250? A: The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is a naked bike, while the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is a fully faired version with slightly more wind protection. Q: Is the Suzuki Gixxer 250 good for beginners? A: Yes, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is considered beginner-friendly because of its predictable power delivery and easy handling. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 181460 | STD | 181517 Special Edition | 181976 |
| Pros | Refined and Smooth Engine – The 248.77cc liquid-cooled engine offers smooth power delivery with good refinement levels, making it comfortable for both city rides and long-distance touring. Comfortable Highway Cruising – The motorcycle maintains stability at highway speeds and allows relaxed cruising without feeling strained. Touring-Friendly Riding Position – The upright ergonomics, wide handlebar, and spacious seat provide comfort during extended rides and daily commuting alike. Premium Hardware Package – Features such as upside-down front forks, LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, and a perimeter frame add to the motorcycle's overall equipment list. Confident High-Speed Stability – The chassis and weight distribution help the Dominar 250 remain planted on highways and open roads. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure over rough surfaces. Modern Digital Features – A digital instrument console and secondary tank-mounted display provide access to essential ride information, navigation support, and smartphone connectivity. Suitable for Touring Accessories – The motorcycle's design accommodates luggage mounts and touring accessories more easily than many motorcycles in the segment. | Smooth and manageable 249 cc engine - good balance of enough power for city and highway without being intimidating. Light, nimble handling and reasonable kerb weight make it easy to maneuver in traffic and tight spaces. Comfortable seat height and posture for both city rides and longer journeys. Suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and uneven surfaces, giving a comfortable ride even on rough roads. Disc brakes front and rear with dual-channel ABS provide dependable stopping power and added safety. A good balance of sporty feel and everyday usability - suitable for daily commutes as well as occasional spirited rides. |
| Starter | Electric | ELECTRIC |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (w/ slipper clutch) | 6- speed |
