TU250 gone.

[dentheman]

I just got off the Suzuki site where I noticed the 2011 TU250 has been removed. I did think it's MSRP of $3999 was too high when the Ninja 250 had the same MSRP. Perhaps Honda's new CBR250R being introduced also had something to do with it.

[Water Warrior 2]

I doubt the TU 250 has been discontinued. Probably the bean counters have just decided to not bring the bike into the U.S. market until present stock has been sold. More than one bike producer has had suspended new models until the economy makes a comeback and the dollar strengthens. Larger cruisers and sport bikes make up the bulk of the sales so that is where production will be centered.

[dentheman]

Originally Posted by Water Warrior

I doubt the TU 250 has been discontinued. Probably the bean counters have just decided to not bring the bike into the U.S. market until present stock has been sold. More than one bike producer has had suspended new models until the economy makes a comeback and the dollar strengthens. Larger cruisers and sport bikes make up the bulk of the sales so that is where production will be centered.

I don't see how the TU can compete with the Ninja and possibly the Honda at that price, no matter the economy.

[Water Warrior 2]

I can see where going with that but some folks may be willing to pay the same for the TU because of it's strengths. It is the most maintenance free especially with FI. Overall it is the simplest bike of the 3. Probably the most user friendly too. And maybe just the styling will go a long way to attract some buyers who want something different. Not being in a sportbike category(or appearing to be) might make it cheaper to insure in some areas too. Hopefully there will be more smaller bikes on the market for newbies and folks who don't need a bigger is better machine.

[dhgeyer]

While not generally touted, the TU250 also has a closed loop EFI system and a catalytic converter, making it the cleanest of the breed. I don't suppose many buyers would be motivated by that, but hopefully they will be as time goes on.

[dentheman]

Originally Posted by dhgeyer

While not generally touted, the TU250 also has a closed loop EFI system and a catalytic converter, making it the cleanest of the breed. I don't suppose many buyers would be motivated by that, but hopefully they will be as time goes on.

The EFI, along with the screw type valve adjusters, are very strong points in favor of the TU and the main reasons I was seriously considering one. But the old school tubed tires on spoked wheels and the somewhat lower highway suitability (IMO, when compared to the Ninja 250 at the same price) have steered me toward the Ninja. I am also interested in the new Honda CBR250R but don't have enough information about it.

I also saw the 2009 TU has been removed from the site, so I don't think there is a stockpile waiting to be sold.

I just reread my OP and seem to be repeating myself on some points, sorry.

[dentheman]

It's back. Same price. Musta been a glitch.

[Water Warrior 2]

Must have been an ID 10 T error. :lol:

[dentheman]

HA........HA.........HA