Suzuki GZ 250 MARAUDER – AR Specs: Engine Oil, Gap & Tire PSI

Engineering Highlight: The Twin Dome Combustion Chamber

The Suzuki GZ 250 Marauder is often cited as the quintessential entry-level cruiser, but its engineering roots are more sophisticated than its simple aesthetic suggests. A key technical highlight is its 249cc single-cylinder engine featuring Suzuki’s Twin Dome Combustion Chamber (TDCC). This design, inherited and refined from the GN series, optimizes the fuel-air mixture swirl, allowing for remarkably efficient combustion and high torque at low RPMs—a critical characteristic for a lightweight cruiser designed to mimic the feel of much larger displacement V-twins.

Technical Maintenance Specifications

To maintain the longevity of the GZ 250’s air-cooled powerplant, adhering to precise fluid and electrical specifications is mandatory. At MotoSpecsLab, we emphasize the use of SAE 10W-40 API SF/SG oil. It is imperative that the oil carries the JASO MA rating to ensure the wet clutch system operates without slippage.

• Oil Change Capacity: 1.4 Liters (approx. 1.5 US qt).
• Ignition: The NGK DR8EA spark plug should be gapped to 0.6–0.7mm to ensure reliable cold starts.
• Electrical: The YTX7L-BS AGM battery provides the necessary 6Ah capacity to handle the Marauder’s transistorized ignition system.

Chassis, Tires, and Safety Pressures

The Marauder’s handling characteristics are defined by its low center of gravity and its specific tire footprint. The 16-inch front and 15-inch rear wheel combination provides the classic ‘slung-back’ cruiser profile while maintaining stability.

Tire Pressure Management:
Proper inflation is critical for preventing ‘cupping’ on the front tire. The front should be maintained at 2.0 bar (29 psi). The rear tire requires 2.25 bar (33 psi) for solo riding, but must be increased to 2.5 bar (36 psi) when carrying a pillion or heavy luggage to prevent sidewall deformation and overheating.

MotoSpecsLab Editorial Verdict

The Suzuki GZ 250 Marauder – AR remains a benchmark for mechanical simplicity and reliability. Its over-engineered top end and accessible maintenance points make it an ideal candidate for DIY enthusiasts. While it lacks the top-end speed of modern liquid-cooled 250s, its fuel efficiency and ‘big bike’ ergonomics offer a unique value proposition in the used market.