Segment:
Sport ATV / Youth Sport ATV
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YFZ450, Honda TRX450R, Kawasaki KFX450R (though LT-Z250 often positioned as a slightly less aggressive, more accessible sport quad).
Design Philosophy:
The Suzuki LT-Z250 QuadSport was designed as a capable and user-friendly sport ATV, offering a good balance of performance and handling for recreational riding and entry-level racing. It often shares design elements and components with its larger sibling, the LT-Z400.
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, carburetor tuning, valve clearance adjustment, ignition system, starting system, lubrication system, cooling system (radiator, coolant flush), fuel system (fuel pump, mixture screw, jets), exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission, primary reduction gear, drive shaft, clutch (operation, adjustment, replacement), rear axle, swingarm (swinger), wheel hub, chain maintenance.
Chassis And Body:
Frame inspection, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber, linkage), steering system (triple clamps, handlebars), body panels, fenders, seat, fuel tank removal/installation.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, hydraulic system bleeding, brake pad replacement, rotor inspection, caliper service.
Electrical:
Charging system (stator, rectifier, battery), starter motor, ignition system (CDI, spark plug), lighting system, switches, wiring diagrams (schematic).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacement, lubrication, tire pressure checks, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common issues such as no spark, starting problems, engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, and braking system issues. Includes error code identification if applicable.
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete tear-down and rebuild procedures for all major components, including engine disassembly/assembly, transmission overhaul, suspension rebuild, and electrical component replacement.
Technical Data:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, valve clearance specifications, fluid capacities, recommended oil viscosities, tire pressure specifications, engine specifications (bore, stroke, compression ratio).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
72.0 mm x 61.2 mm (2.83 in. x 2.41 in.)
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Carburetor:
Mikuni BSR36 (36 mm) with Accelerator Pump
Fuel Capacity:
2.9 US gal (11 L)
Recommended Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (specific viscosity may vary with temperature, consult manual for precise recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze coolant (50% mixture with distilled water recommended).
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (CDI)
Overall Length:
Approx. 70.1 in. (1780 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 45.1 in. (1145 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 43.5 in. (1105 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 390 lbs (177 kg)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.7 in. (120 mm)
Front Tire Size:
AT22x7-10
Rear Tire Size:
AT20x10-9
Front Wheel Type:
Aluminum alloy
Rear Wheel Type:
Aluminum alloy
Front Suspension Type:
Independent, double A-arm with oil-damped, coil-spring shocks
Front Suspension Travel:
Approx. 6.9 in. (175 mm)
Rear Suspension Type:
Swingarm type with oil-damped, coil-spring shock absorber
Rear Suspension Travel:
Approx. 7.1 in. (180 mm)
Atv Safety Considerations:
As with all ATVs, operation requires protective gear (helmet, eye protection, gloves, boots, long sleeves and pants) and responsible riding practices. Manual provides safety warnings and guidelines.
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc front brakes, Single hydraulic disc rear brake.
Throttle Limiter:
Often equipped with a thumb throttle for controlled acceleration.
Features:
Basic instrumentation (speedometer, odometer, neutral indicator, oil pressure indicator, high beam indicator). No advanced infotainment systems present on this model.
Features:
No electronic driver assistance features beyond the standard throttle control and braking systems.
Features:
No connectivity features available.
Engine Oil Change:
Recommended every 1,000 km (600 miles) or 6 months. Check manual for specific break-in period recommendations.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect and clean/replace regularly, especially in dusty conditions. Consult manual for specific interval (e.g., every 300 miles or annually).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended replacement interval typically around 2,000-3,000 miles or annually. Manual will specify exact interval and correct spark plug type (e.g., NGK CR9E).
Valve Clearance Check:
First check at 1,000 km (600 miles) or 6 months, then every 2,000 km (1,200 miles) or 12 months thereafter. Correct valve clearance is critical for engine performance and longevity.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years to maintain braking performance and prevent corrosion.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 L (1.8 US qt) without filter change, 1.9 L (2.0 US qt) with filter change. Consult manual for exact capacity.
Transmission Oil Type:
Suzuki Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Carburetor Jetting:
Some owners report lean running conditions at higher altitudes or with aftermarket exhausts, requiring carburetor re-jetting. The manual covers carb tuning.
Oil Leaks:
Occasional reports of minor oil leaks from valve covers or crankcase seals, which are detailed repair procedures in the manual.
Suspension Wear:
As with any sport ATV, regular use can lead to wear in suspension bushings and bearings, covered by the manual's rebuild sections.
Suzuki Atv Legacy:
Suzuki has a strong history in the ATV market, particularly with the highly successful LT-Z400 (QuadRacer) and its variants. The LT-Z250 builds on this heritage with a focus on recreational sport riding.
Ltz250 Positioning:
Introduced as a slightly smaller, lighter, and more accessible sport ATV compared to the LT-Z400, targeting riders seeking sporty performance without the extreme power and handling characteristics of larger displacement models. It filled a niche for a capable entry-level or intermediate sport quad.
Production Period:
2004-2009