Top 3 Touring Bikes Under 250cc: Which One’s Right for You?

Small Engines, Big Adventures: The Best Touring Bikes Under 250cc You Can Ride Today!

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Looking for a touring bike but don’t want (or need) a massive engine? A 250cc touring bike is a great choice especially if you’re a beginner or just want something budget-friendly and easy to handle. Sure, they’re not the most powerful machines out there, but they’re light, efficient, and perfect for learning the ropes of long-distance riding.

So the big question is: which one should you pick? I’ve tested three popular 250cc touring bikes available in Malaysia, here’s the breakdown.

Modenas Kawasaki Versys-X 250

We kick things off with the Versys-X 250, a solid, wallet-friendly entry into the adventure touring world. Assembled locally through the Modenas-Kawasaki partnership, it’s been a hit with B2 license holders since its debut.

Powered by the same engine as the Ninja 250, it’s tuned for smooth cruising and light adventure duty. It’s comfortable, even with a pillion and feels like a bigger touring bike without the bulk. The ride is stable, the suspension is handled well, and braking duties are confidently managed by NISSIN callipers.

It’s not perfect though: the standard headlight is weak, the engine’s a bit grumbly in first gear, and real power only kicks in above 6,000 RPM. With a top speed of around 140+ km/h, it’s quick enough, but the side boxes do add some drag and wobble. Still, for beginners or riders looking for an approachable, versatile tourer, the Versys-X 250 is a great place to start.

Suzuki V-Strom 250SX

Next is the Suzuki V-Strom 250SX, a sport crossover that really surprised me with its comfort and capability. Styled like its bigger V-Strom brothers, it has that classic adventure look, complete with a beak-style front fender and sharp body lines.

It’s powered by a 249cc single-cylinder engine delivering 26 hp and 22.2 Nm of torque. It may not blow your socks off, but it’s smooth, easy to manage, and perfect for daily rides and light touring. The 19-inch front wheel, preload-adjustable rear shock, and dual-channel ABS give it solid control on mixed terrain.

You also get useful extras like LED lights, a USB port, hand guards, and a rear rack. It’s economical, comfortable, and stable even in windy conditions. While it doesn’t pack high-end tech or big power, the V-Strom 250SX nails what matters most like reliability, practicality, and everyday usability.

KTM 250 Adventure

Last but not least, we’ve got the KTM 250 Adventure, a “Jack of all trades” machine that leans more towards on-road fun, with enough ruggedness for occasional off-road jaunts. 

It shares its engine with the 250 Duke, delivering 29.6 hp and 24 Nm of torque. While it lacks the ride-by-wire system found on the 390 Adventure, the power delivery is smooth and linear, great for city commutes and weekend getaways. It’s nimble, sporty, and built with a rally-inspired design that gives it a serious presence.     

Despite being KTM’s smallest ADV, it carries itself well, whether you’re carving corners or tackling bumpy backroads. It’s a bit less adventure-focused than the name might suggest, but it still delivers on the fun and versatility front.       

Conclusion: Which One’s Right for You?

All three bikes are solid picks but each shines in a slightly different way.

Go for the Versys-X 250 if you’re after a smooth, comfy, and beginner-friendly tourer with solid build quality and classic adventure styling. Pick the V-Strom 250SX if practicality, value, and real-world comfort are your priorities, this one’s great for everyday use and light touring with no fuss. Choose the KTM 250 Adventure if you want something sporty, nimble, and fun that can handle both your daily grind and the occasional trail detour.

At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong because each of these 250cc machines proves that adventure touring doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag or intimidating size. Just pick the one that fits your riding style and hit the road.

If you’re on the hunt for more sub-250cc adventure touring bikes, be sure to check out our listings at iMotorbike.com!