The Suzuki Intruder 250, while a visually appealing and generally reliable motorcycle, isn't without its quirks. Like any machine, it can experience problems, and understanding these potential issues is crucial for ownership, maintenance, and ensuring a smooth riding experience. This article delves into the common problems faced by Suzuki Intruder 250 owners, offering insights into causes, solutions, and preventative measures to keep your Intruder running strong.

Is the Intruder 250 Really That Bad? Let's Set the Record Straight

Before diving into the problems, it's important to note that the Intruder 250 is generally considered a well-built motorcycle. Many owners report years of trouble-free riding. However, like any vehicle, it has potential weaknesses, and being aware of them allows you to address issues proactively and prevent more significant problems down the road. This isn't about bashing the Intruder 250; it's about providing realistic information to help owners make informed decisions.

Common Issues You Might Encounter

Let's break down the most frequently reported issues by system or component:

1. Carburetor Woes: A Finicky Fuel System

The Intruder 250 utilizes a carburetor, which, while simple, can be sensitive to fuel quality and environmental changes. This is perhaps the most common source of complaints.

  • Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Causes:
    • Clogged Jets: The small jets within the carburetor are easily blocked by debris from the fuel tank or degraded fuel. This is especially common if the bike has been sitting for an extended period.
    • Incorrect Fuel Mixture: Changes in altitude or temperature can affect the air/fuel mixture, leading to performance issues.
    • Vacuum Leaks: Cracks or loose connections in the vacuum lines connected to the carburetor can disrupt the fuel mixture.
    • Diaphragm Issues: Over time, the rubber diaphragm within the carburetor can become brittle or cracked, affecting fuel delivery.
  • Solutions:
    • Carburetor Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of the carburetor, including the jets, is often the first step. This might involve disassembling the carburetor and using carburetor cleaner.
    • Fuel Filter Replacement: Replace the fuel filter regularly to prevent debris from reaching the carburetor.
    • Fuel System Cleaner: Adding a fuel system cleaner to the fuel tank can help dissolve deposits and improve fuel flow.
    • Carburetor Adjustment: Adjusting the idle mixture screw can sometimes resolve minor fuel mixture issues. Consult the service manual for proper adjustment procedures.
    • Vacuum Line Inspection and Replacement: Inspect all vacuum lines for cracks or leaks and replace them as needed.
    • Diaphragm Replacement: If the diaphragm is damaged, it must be replaced.

2. Electrical Gremlins: When Things Just Don't Light Up

Electrical problems can be frustrating, as they can manifest in various ways and be difficult to diagnose.

  • Symptoms: Dim headlights, flickering lights, battery drain, starting problems, and non-functional turn signals.
  • Causes:
    • Loose Connections: Vibrations can cause electrical connections to loosen over time, leading to intermittent problems.
    • Corrosion: Corrosion on connectors and terminals can impede electrical flow.
    • Faulty Regulator/Rectifier: This component is responsible for regulating the voltage from the alternator to the battery. A faulty regulator/rectifier can cause overcharging or undercharging, leading to battery problems.
    • Worn Wiring: Over time, the insulation on the wiring can become brittle and crack, leading to shorts.
    • Faulty Battery: A weak or damaged battery can cause a variety of electrical problems.
  • Solutions:
    • Inspect and Clean Connections: Regularly inspect all electrical connections for looseness and corrosion. Clean the connections with a wire brush or contact cleaner.
    • Test the Battery: Have the battery tested to ensure it is holding a charge and providing sufficient voltage.
    • Test the Regulator/Rectifier: Use a multimeter to test the output voltage of the regulator/rectifier. Consult the service manual for the correct testing procedure.
    • Inspect Wiring Harness: Carefully inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, such as cracked insulation or frayed wires.
    • Replace Damaged Components: Replace any damaged wiring, connectors, or components.

3. Starting Issues: The Dreaded Cranking But No Start

A motorcycle that refuses to start can be incredibly frustrating.

  • Symptoms: Engine cranks but doesn't start, engine starts intermittently, or engine starts but stalls immediately.
  • Causes:
    • Low Battery Voltage: Insufficient battery voltage can prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine fast enough to start.
    • Faulty Starter Motor: A worn or damaged starter motor may not be able to crank the engine properly.
    • Faulty Starter Relay: The starter relay is responsible for sending power to the starter motor. A faulty relay can prevent the starter motor from engaging.
    • Ignition Problems: Issues with the ignition system, such as a faulty ignition coil or spark plug, can prevent the engine from firing.
    • Fuel Delivery Problems: As mentioned earlier, carburetor problems can also cause starting issues.
    • Compression Issues: Low compression can make it difficult for the engine to start.
  • Solutions:
    • Charge the Battery: Ensure the battery is fully charged.
    • Test the Starter Motor: Have the starter motor tested to ensure it is functioning properly.
    • Test the Starter Relay: Use a multimeter to test the starter relay.
    • Inspect Spark Plugs: Check the spark plugs for wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.
    • Test Ignition Coil: Test the ignition coil to ensure it is producing a strong spark.
    • Address Fuel Delivery Issues: Refer to the carburetor troubleshooting section above.
    • Compression Test: Perform a compression test to check the condition of the engine.

4. Clutch Slippage: Losing Power in the Transmission

Clutch slippage occurs when the clutch plates fail to properly engage, resulting in a loss of power to the rear wheel.

  • Symptoms: Engine revs high without corresponding acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell.
  • Causes:
    • Worn Clutch Plates: Over time, the clutch plates can wear down, reducing their ability to grip.
    • Incorrect Clutch Cable Adjustment: A misadjusted clutch cable can prevent the clutch plates from fully engaging.
    • Oil Contamination: Oil on the clutch plates can reduce their friction and cause slippage.
    • Weak Clutch Springs: The clutch springs provide the pressure needed to engage the clutch plates. Weak springs can lead to slippage.
  • Solutions:
    • Clutch Cable Adjustment: Adjust the clutch cable according to the service manual.
    • Clutch Plate Replacement: Replace the clutch plates if they are worn.
    • Check for Oil Leaks: Inspect the engine for oil leaks that could be contaminating the clutch plates.
    • Clutch Spring Replacement: Replace the clutch springs if they are weak.

5. Brake Issues: Stopping Power is Paramount

Brake problems are a serious safety concern and should be addressed immediately.

  • Symptoms: Weak braking, squealing brakes, pulsating brakes, and spongy brake lever.
  • Causes:
    • Worn Brake Pads: Brake pads wear down over time and need to be replaced.
    • Contaminated Brake Pads: Oil or grease on the brake pads can reduce their effectiveness.
    • Air in the Brake Lines: Air in the brake lines can cause a spongy brake lever.
    • Warped Brake Rotors: Warped brake rotors can cause pulsating brakes.
    • Leaking Brake Caliper: A leaking brake caliper can reduce braking power.
  • Solutions:
    • Brake Pad Replacement: Replace the brake pads when they are worn.
    • Clean Brake Pads: Clean the brake pads with brake cleaner if they are contaminated.
    • Bleed the Brakes: Bleed the brakes to remove air from the brake lines.
    • Replace Brake Rotors: Replace warped brake rotors.
    • Repair or Replace Brake Caliper: Repair or replace a leaking brake caliper.

6. Exhaust System Corrosion: Rust Never Sleeps

The exhaust system is exposed to the elements and can be prone to corrosion, especially in humid environments.

  • Symptoms: Rust on the exhaust pipes, exhaust leaks, and a louder exhaust note.
  • Causes:
    • Exposure to Moisture: Moisture and road salt can accelerate corrosion.
    • Poor Quality Metal: Some aftermarket exhaust systems are made from lower-quality metal that is more susceptible to rust.
  • Solutions:
    • Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the exhaust system to remove dirt and salt.
    • Protective Coating: Apply a protective coating to the exhaust system to prevent rust.
    • Exhaust System Replacement: Replace the exhaust system if it is severely corroded.

7. Suspension Issues: A Bumpy Ride

Suspension problems can affect handling and comfort.

  • Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fork seals.
  • Causes:
    • Worn Fork Seals: Fork seals can leak over time, causing a loss of damping.
    • Low Fork Oil: Low fork oil can reduce damping and make the ride harsh.
    • Worn Shocks: Shocks can wear out over time, reducing their ability to absorb bumps.
  • Solutions:
    • Fork Seal Replacement: Replace worn fork seals.
    • Fork Oil Replacement: Replace the fork oil according to the service manual.
    • Shock Replacement: Replace worn shocks.

Preventative Maintenance: An Ounce of Prevention...

The best way to avoid problems is to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter at the recommended intervals.
  • Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement: Clean or replace the air filter regularly.
  • Chain Maintenance: Keep the chain clean, lubricated, and properly adjusted.
  • Tire Pressure Checks: Check the tire pressure regularly.
  • Brake Inspection: Inspect the brakes regularly for wear.
  • Carburetor Cleaning: Clean the carburetor periodically, especially if the bike sits for extended periods.
  • Electrical System Inspection: Inspect the electrical system for loose connections and corrosion.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my Intruder 250 hard to start when it's cold? A cold engine requires a richer fuel mixture to start. Ensure the choke is properly engaged and the carburetor is clean.
  • My Intruder 250 is backfiring. What could be the cause? Backfiring can be caused by a lean fuel mixture, exhaust leaks, or ignition problems. Check the carburetor, exhaust system, and spark plugs.
  • How often should I change the oil on my Intruder 250? Consult your owner's manual, but generally, every 3,000-5,000 kilometers or every year is a good rule of thumb. Use the recommended oil type.
  • My Intruder 250 is losing power. What could be the issue? Loss of power can be due to a clogged carburetor, worn clutch plates, or low compression. A thorough inspection is needed.
  • Where can I find a service manual for my Intruder 250? Online searches for "Suzuki Intruder 250 service manual PDF" will often yield results. Be sure to download from a reputable source.

In conclusion, while the Suzuki Intruder 250 can experience certain issues, particularly with the carburetor and electrical system, regular maintenance and prompt attention to symptoms can significantly reduce the likelihood of major problems. By understanding the potential weaknesses and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy many miles of enjoyable riding on your Intruder 250.