Riding Impression: 2009 Suzuki TU250X

Reminiscent of the Singles of the '60s, Suzuki's TU250X not only looks like a classic of the era, it has the same simplicity that made those motorcycles comfortable, economical and easy riding.

While the TU excels around town, don't be afraid to head out on the highway, as the air-cooled, 249cc, fuel-injected Single is capable of cruising at freeway-legal speeds. Amidst the bustle of an urban setting, the lightweight (308 pounds dry) bike feels right at home; decent torque makes out-sprinting traffic leaving stoplights no problem. With the engine making just 16 horsepower (measured at the rear wheel on the CW dyno), you'll row the five-speed gearbox and work the light clutch to keep the bike accelerating briskly. Top gear smoothes out unwanted vibes, but a quick pass requires a downshift or two. Even when riding at a spirited pace, we achieved 53 mpg.

Like the engine, the chassis is simple and functional. From the steel-tube frame hangs non-adjustable suspension, twin coil-over dampers out back and a conventional telescopic fork in a blacked-out top triple-clamp. Braking is handled by a single twin-piston caliper squeezing a 260mm disc up front. A drum brake is fitted at the rear. Stopping power is good, even with the additional weight of a passenger on board, but an adjustable-span front brake lever would be better to accommodate riders of varying hand sizes.

One thing the TU has in spades is classic styling. The 18-inch wire spoke wheels, exhaust and headlight nacelle are all chromed. Other nice touches include the polished aluminum lower fork legs and engine cases, color-matched plastic fenders, sidecovers and pinstriped fuel tank.

The riding position is upright and neutral with a comfortable seat. That seat is just over 30 inches off the deck, which should allow most riders, regardless of their size, to get feet firmly planted on the ground. The TU's light weight makes it manageable at slow speeds or simply getting into and out of parking spaces.

In tough economic times like these, the $3799 TU250X makes a lot of sense, as it's one of the least-expensive street-legal motorcycles sold in the U.S. Price aside, buyers get a lightweight, fuel-efficient, high-quality motorcycle that is a great choice for beginners and commuters alike.