Suzuki VanVan 200“Classic cool. Ready to groove whenever and wherever you are.” This is the tagline Suzuki uses for one of the more peculiar models just released as a 2017 model – the VanVan 200.The fat-tired bike joins the other two smaller standards that return to the 2017 Suzuki motorcycle lineup as carryovers – the TU250X and GW250.
The VanVan 200 is a lightweight and easily accessible motorcycle with a retro flair – something you’d expect to see on the California Beach scene. It is powered by a four-stroke, 199cc single with a five-speed transmission, and arrives with an 18” front tire and extra-wide 14” balloon tire out back. This fat rear tire enhances the retro look, and compliments the slim 1.7-gallon gas tank.The Suzuki VanVan 200 will be offered in two colors – Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Fibroin Gray – for a price of $4,599 (MSRP).2017 Suzuki VanVan 200Following are the highlights of the 2017 Suzuki VanVan 200 courtesy of Suzuki:Highlights:
The VanVan’s 199cc, 4-stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled engine is built for excellent response
Easy, push-button electric starting
Advanced, compact fuel injection system and well-designed exhaust are tuned with an emphasis on low-to-mid range power delivery that’s street friendly
Carefully selected transmission gear ratios provide smooth acceleration through each gear
Air-cooled oil cooler helps stabilize the engine’s performance
Wide 18-inch front and extra-wide 14-inch balloon tires, boost the VanVan’s classic retro look and add to its unique character
Wide, pleated and plush seat has a low seat height great for both rider and passenger
Classic round headlight upfront and a bold, distinctively designed rear tail/stop light
Easy-to-read speedometer with black face and white numbers glow with color in the dark
Engine Features
Classic, air-cooled 199cc, 4-stroke, 1-cylinder, engine is built for durability and excellent throttle response
Precise manual clutch feeds a five speed transmission with gear ratios that provide brisk acceleration and smooth cruising
Robust charging system supplies the battery so the VanVan’s electric start is push-button easy
Advanced, compact EFI system features an integrated fuel pump/ injector assembly for precise fuel delivery that results in outstanding performance and economy
Automatic idle speed control (ISC) means start up is easy with no choke and the idle speed is always right, not matter the condition
Air-cooled oil cooler (like those used on the DR650S) helps control engine temperature to stabilize performance
Catalyzer-equipped exhaust system helps control emissions while the bullet-shaped muffler produces a pleasant exhaust note
Chassis Features
Strong, steel diamond-style frame is the foundation for low-slung fun
Slim shaped 1.7 gal. (6.5L) fuel tank is low and out of the way when riding while providing great range
The wide 18-inch 130/80 front balloon tire on an aluminum rim wheel and extra-wide 14-inch 180/80 rear balloon tire, enhance the VanVan’s classic retro look and add to its unique character
Front disc brake with two-piston caliper and rear drum brake provide strong stopping power
Widely spaced, 33mm-inner-tube telescopic front fork and single-shock absorber rear suspension with 136mm of wheel travel for supple handling performance
Wide, spacious and generously cushioned seat has a low 30.3 inch (770 mm) seat height that delivers a comfortable experience for both the rider and passenger
Rubber-covered, large-sized footpegs add even more comfort to the ride
Well-spaced tubular handlebar and control levers make guiding the VanVan an easy task
Compact round 60/55W headlight, chrome body turn signals and bold, distinctively designed rear combination light bring classic functionality to the VanVan
Convenient one-piece grab bar with luggage hooks for cargo strap attachment points
Fender mounted pouch provides storage for the owner’s manual and hand tools
KTM Super ADV R + Lightning Motorcycles’ Richard Hatfield
byMotos and Friends by Ultimate Motorcycle
Hello everyone and welcome once again to Motos and Friends—the weekly Podcast brought to you by the editorial team at Ultimate Motorcycling. My name is Arthur Coldwells.
In this week’s first segment, Editor Don Williams rides KTM’s new 1290 Super Adventure R. This hardcore ADV bike is big, powerful, and a true expert-level machine. Interestingly, it has multiple points of adjustment within its highly capable electronics package, and Don discovered several big surprises where the bike changed personality completely. His is an intriguing look at one of the most capable off road ADV bikes on the market today.
In the second segment, I chat with Richard Hatfield, CEO of Lightning motorcycles. This silicon valley based manufacturer was founded in 2006, and having racked up several notable race victories (including Pikes Peak in 2013 with the late Carlin Dunne on board) Lightning have certainly dominated in racing terms. In another first, Lightning has just announced a new rapid-charging battery technology that may well bring electric motorcycles into becoming real-world, practical transport.
So from all of us here at Motos & Friends… we hope you enjoy this episode!
