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Clocked 35,000 km on my Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Few maintenance updates

11th March 2025, 11:30 by Utkarsh Chaudhary

Other than these updates, the motorcycle has been performing flawlessly. It still delivers an average fuel efficiency of 35-40 km/l while riding around Kerala.

BHPian ITZ_Zeta recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Hey Everybody!

It’s been a while since I updated this thread. Life had other priorities, which kept me out of the country for a while. However, I’ve managed to go on several rides here and there, and the odometer has now crossed 35,000 km. Let me share a few quick updates.

Rear Brake Pads:

The rear brake pads were completely worn out at 34,000 km. This is the first time I’ve changed the rear pads on this bike, and considering I use the rear brakes extensively, I’m very happy they lasted this long.

Front Brake Pads:

Unfortunately, the story is different for the front brake pads. The first set was worn out at 8,000 km, the second at 20,000 km, and the current third set at 35,000 km. While the third set lasted longer than the first, I still think it could’ve been better. I’m now considering switching to aftermarket brake pads instead of the OEM ones.

Chain and Sprocket:

The chain and sprocket were also replaced this time around. Neither the chain nor the sprockets were heavily worn out, but the chain links started to seize. This is the same issue I faced when I replaced the chain for the first time at 15,000 km.

Regarding my chain care routine, I usually clean the chain every 1,500–2,000 km using a diesel and soap water combo, followed by lubrication with gear oil as needed, typically within 400–500 km intervals. This approach has worked well with my Yamaha FZ, whose chain and sprockets are nearing 30,000 km and are still going strong. I saw no reason to change the approach for the Gixxer either.

However, I once gave my bike for a foam wash, and the person used a pressure washer directly on the chain. This may have compromised the O-rings and factory grease of the chain.

For the third set, I opted for the aftermarket Rolon brass chain, which cost me ₹3,290 and was sourced locally.

Swingarm Maintenance:

As part of the chain and sprocket replacement, the swingarm bush was cleaned and greased since the swingarm had to be removed for the replacement of the chain. A bit of surface rust was spotted on the underside of the swingarm and a few spots on the lower frame. The rust was cleaned for now, but repainting will be necessary soon. The sprocket-side bearing was also replaced, though the rear wheel bearings are still in good condition.

Tyres:

The tyres are due for replacement. When my friend and fellow Tbhpian neil.jericho upgraded to new tyres on his Gixxer, I took his unused stock tyres and installed them on my Gixxer at around 18,000 km. At the time, since I was considering selling the bike, investing in new tyres didn’t seem worthwhile. Still researching on which brand to go for.

Other than these updates, the bike has been performing flawlessly. It still delivers an average fuel efficiency of 35–40 km/l while riding around Kerala. There are no unwanted clatters or noises from the engine. I am systematic with oil and oil filter changes as well.

I was also able to find an FNG in Wayanad that does an excellent job with the bike and has all the necessary tools and equipment. So, I probably won’t be visiting the Suzuki ASC except for spares and consumables.

Observations:

One noticeable change after switching to the Rolon chain and sprocket is a slight reduction in vibrations after 6,000 rpm. The vibrations now become noticeable only after 8,000 rpm. However, I’ve only ridden 250 km since the replacement, so I’ll update further as time goes on.