Segment:
Sportbike/Naked Sportbike (depending on fairing configuration)
Competitors:
Competed against other 250cc-class sporty motorcycles from manufacturers like Yamaha (FZ250/XJR400), Kawasaki (GPZ250/ZXR250), and Honda (CBR250/CB-1)
Design Philosophy:
The GSX250F Katana was known for its distinctive styling, often featuring a half-fairing, and a balance of performance and usability for its class.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul, fuel delivery, fuel tank service, fuel lines
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, gearbox disassembly and assembly, lubrication
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, battery), lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber, swingarm, bearings, steering head assembly
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system overhaul (calipers, master cylinders, lines), bleeding, pad replacement, rotor inspection
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, coolant, thermostat, hoses
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, tank, fenders
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification and solutions
Rebuilds:
Engine internal component rebuilds, carburetor rebuilding
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, carburetor synchronization, ignition timing
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major components
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis overhauls
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
249 cc (249 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
51.0 mm x 56.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1 (typical for this era and engine)
Horsepower:
~40-45 PS (29-33 kW) at approximately 12,500 RPM (estimated, exact figures may vary slightly)
Torque:
~2.4-2.6 kg-m (23-25 Nm) at approximately 10,000 RPM (estimated)
Carburetors:
Mikuni VM22SS x 4 (or similar 22mm flat-slide carburetors)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
Suzuki recommends SAE 10W-40 API SE, SF or SG type engine oil (check manual for precise specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.6 Liters (2.7 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor gumming and clogging due to infrequent use or stale fuel, requiring cleaning and synchronization.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Wear or failure of the automatic cam chain tensioner can lead to rattling noises and potential engine damage.
Charging System:
Regulator/rectifier failure can lead to battery overcharging or undercharging.
Suspension Seals:
Fork seal leaks are common with age and mileage.
Suzuki Motorcycles:
Suzuki has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation in engine design and performance across various categories, from street bikes to off-road and racing machines.
Katana Lineage:
The GSX250F is part of the broader 'Katana' lineage, which began with the iconic GSX1100S Katana in the early 1980s, known for its distinctive styling and performance.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
