Suzuki V-Strom SX sets national record in Ladakh expedition

Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the Indian subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, announced the successful completion of the ‘V-Strom Expedition – Ride Through Impassable’.

During this 18-hour expedition across the terrain of Ladakh, Suzuki’s V-Strom SX 250cc motorcycle set a national record in the India Book of Records for covering the ‘Highest Top 9 Mountain Passes by a Two-Wheeler in India’.

Devashish Handa, Executive Vice President - Sales, Marketing, and After Sales at Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd., remarked, "The successful completion of this expedition is a notable achievement for Suzuki Motorcycle India. This journey underscores the performance and reliability of the V-Strom SX in extreme conditions. Setting a national record in the India Book of Records highlights the capabilities of our 250cc motorcycle."

The V-Strom SX began its expedition on September 11, 2024, at 7 PM from Tanglang La and reached Umling La on September 12, 2024, at 1 PM, covering 780 kilometers in 18 hours. The route included nine mountain passes, such as Khardung La (17,582 feet), Umling La (19,024 feet), and Marsimik La (18,314 feet). Six riders completed the journey on two Suzuki V-Strom SX motorcycles, navigating challenging terrains in Ladakh.

The V-Strom SX, powered by a 250cc oil-cooled engine and Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) technology, performed consistently in high-altitude and subzero conditions. The motorcycle handled both paved and unpaved roads effectively, with its upright riding position, dual-purpose tires, and solid handling contributing to its performance throughout the expedition.

The Suzuki V-Strom 250 is equipped with a 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces around 26.5 horsepower and 22.2 Nm of torque. The engine features Suzuki's Oil Cooling System (SOCS), which helps maintain optimal temperatures, enhancing performance and reliability, particularly during long rides or challenging conditions. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, providing a balanced mix of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city commuting and highway touring.

In terms of features, the V-Strom 250 comes with a fully digital instrument cluster, offering clear information on speed, fuel levels, gear position, and other key metrics. The bike is fitted with a comfortable upright riding position, designed for long-distance comfort.

It also features dual-purpose semi-block pattern tires, which enhance grip on both paved roads and off-road surfaces. Additional features include an LED headlamp, a rear luggage carrier, and a windscreen, designed to reduce fatigue during long rides by improving aerodynamics and wind protection.