The first generation TU was introduced to the Japanese domestic market in 1994 in both 125cc or 249cc models. Variations of the bike marketed in the JDM and other regions include the VanVan, Grasstracker, Grasstracker Bigboy and Volty. Confusingly, the first generation TU250, marketed in Asia as the Volty, was marketed in Europe from 1997-2003 — also as the TU250X Volty.
Second generation
The second generation TU debuted at the 37th Tokyo Motor Show 2003, described at the time by Suzuki as: The bike was formally introduced to the Japanese domestic market in December 2003 for model year 2004 as the ST250 and ST250 E-Type, the latter having a higher level of trim, including a two-tone fuel tank, polished engine, chromed exhaust pipe, CDI ignition and a kick starter as well as electric start. Suzuki Motor of America began marketing the second generation motorcycle in North America for model year 2009 as the TU250X, with a hiatus for model years 2010 and 2014, allowing the manufacturer to adjust importation to demand. The bike was introduced to Australia in 2011 as the TU250X. The TU250x had a twin valve, single cylinder engine with a closed-loop Electronic Fuel Injection system and a 32-bit ECU, oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, integral cold-start system, 32mm throttle body 10-nozzle injector and a proprietary air injection system that introduces fresh air from the airbox into the exhaust port to ignite unburned hydrocarbons, reducing emissions. In the United States, the TU does not meet California emissions requirements and has remained a 49-state model. The air-cooled engine has a gear-driven counterbalancer as well as a proprietary cylinder wall plating similar to a Nikasil coating. The coating, marketed as Suzuki Composite Electro-chemical Material or SCEM, is nickel-phosphorus-silicon-carbide based, reducing weight and improving heat transfer, allowing for tighter and more efficient piston-to-cylinder clearance. Valves are adjustable via 'screw and locknut' type clearance adjusters. The engine features an oil sump sight glass, enabling visual oil checks, and uses 87 octane fuel. Specifications include a five speed transmission with cable-actuated clutch, electric starting, clutch and side stand interlocks, electronic ignition system, maintenance free battery, tubular steel frame with load bearing engine, rear drum brake and front 275mm dual-piston caliper disk brake by Tokico, chrome-plated locking gas cap, passenger pillion separate from the driver's seat, plastic front and rear fenders, factory equipped tool kit, helmet lock, tapered chrome muffler, and chrome wired wheels. Cheng Shin tube-type tires are fitted as standard equipment: 90/90-18 front and 110/90-18 rear. Drive is via a 108 link, DID520V chain. Instrumentation includes an analog speedometer with trip odometer and indicator lights for turn signal, high beam and fuel injection status, as well as a low fuel warning and neutral light. The bike has a 148 kg curb weight, rake of 25°55', trail of 3.62"; and an unladen weight distribution of 47.4% front, 52.6% rear.
Reception
Reviewing the bike for its 2009 U.S. introduction, Scott Rousseau at Motorcycle Consumer News described the bike as having "1960s-era British aesthetics" as well as a "rev-happy thumper motor, lithe handling and surprisingly competent suspension." Canadian Moto Guide conducted a long term review of the bike in 2013, saying "The only ongoing niggle with the TU was the rear suspension which is just not that compliant when it comes to dealing with road irregularities." In late 2014, the TU250X placed fifth in a five bike comparison by Motorcycle.com, against the Yamaha SR400, Suzuki GW250, Royal Enfield Continental GT, and Honda CB300F. The reviewer noted the TU's engine developed 14.8 hp @ 7300rpm with 11.5 lb-ft of torque, returning 67mpg. The reviewer said "the elegantly styled retro bike is overwhelmingly competent in many areas. Four of the five testers gave it favorable reviews", adding "it does everything it’s meant to do – turn, brake, accelerate – with unquestionable proficiency. For the novice, especially one who is slight in stature, the TU is simply the best bike on which to learn how to ride a motorcycle." Describing the TU250x, author Pete Brissette of Motorcycle.com wrote that Suzuki had "returned to the simple formula of the UJM, and with it brought back the pleasures of riding a friendly, straightforward motorcycle."
