Okay, so I finally decided to get my hands dirty with a Suzuki Van Van 200. I’d been eyeing these bikes for a while – they have that cool, retro scrambler look, and I’ve heard they’re a blast to ride around town and even do some light off-roading.
First thing I did was hit up some local dealerships and online marketplaces. Found a few used ones in decent condition, and one that really caught my eye – a 2017 model with low mileage and a few nice aftermarket add-ons like a skid plate and some beefier tires.
Getting to Know the Bike
After I brought it home, I spent a good chunk of time just going over the bike. Checked the oil, tire pressure, chain slack – all that basic stuff. I’m no mechanic, but I like to know my way around a bit. It’s always good to familiarize yourself with a new machine, you know?
- Checked Oil Level
- Inspected Tire Pressure
- Adjusted Chain Slack (it was a little loose)
- Checked Lights and Signals
Everything seemed pretty solid, so I took it for a spin around the neighborhood. Man, this thing is fun! It’s super light and nimble, and the engine has a nice little punch to it. It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s definitely got enough pep for zipping around.
Taking it Off-Road (Slightly)
The next day, I decided to test out its off-road capabilities. Nothing too crazy, just a local dirt trail. The Van Van handled it like a champ! Those chunky tires definitely helped, and the suspension soaked up the bumps pretty well. I wouldn’t take it on any serious motocross tracks, but for some casual trail riding, it’s perfect.
Little Hiccups and Fixes
Of course, with a used bike, there are always a few things to sort out. I noticed the headlight was a bit dim, so I swapped out the bulb for a brighter LED one. Easy peasy. Also, the idle was a little rough, so I cleaned the carburetor. That smoothed things out nicely. Nothing Major!
Overall Impressions (So Far!)
So far, I’m loving the Van Van 200. It’s exactly what I was looking for – a stylish, fun, and versatile little bike that’s perfect for both city riding and light off-road adventures. It’s not the fastest or most powerful bike out there, but it’s got a ton of character, and it puts a smile on my face every time I ride it. I’m already planning some longer trips and maybe a few more mods down the line. Stay tuned!
