QUICK FANG: Daelim VJF250 - Hey, Good Lookin’
The Daelim VJF250 is a gorgeous looking bike. And I don’t mean ‘for an entry-level bike’. The quality of its styling puts it in the same class as the leading middleweight sportsbikes. Well done, Daelim.
The shape and proportions are lovely. From the snazzy twin headlights, to the look of the frame and the shape of the seat, it’s all good. Even tyre widths and wheel design complement the lines of the fairing nicely.
The previous model was just about there, with the exception of the rear of the bike. The back end looked a bit pedestrian compared with the front and three quarter front views. For 2012 the job has been completed. It features classy new pillion grab-handles, an abbreviated rear guard, a new LED taillight and a minimalist numberplate mount. Very sexy.
The fit and finish of the test bike is excellent and the pearl white paint looked great. What jars a little is a bit of overkill in the fairing graphics – there are a few too many words, including an odd one, ‘Speedwin’. But it’s not a failing unique to the Koreans. Not so long ago the Japanese were doing it. One that comes to mind is a Suzuki single uncomfortably bearing the ‘Freewind’ label.
On board, the Daelim’s ergonomics work well. You sit up straighter than its sporty looks would suggest, just right for an entry-level bike and a perfect fit for its performance.
The instrument cluster is a thoroughly modern affair with an analogue tacho and digi-speedo lit at night by a pleasant blue backlight.
Strangely there’s no engine kill-switch. The adjustable front brake lever is a nice touch, given this is an inexpensive bike, as is the inclusion of twin front discs.
The liquid-cooled singlecylinder donk is fuel injected, a system that functions perfectly, making for easy cold or hot starts and providing accurate fuelling and consistent throttle response.
The engine is a willing toiler that produces adequate rather than sparkling performance, again probably a good fit for an entry-level bike.
Top gear requires about 7000rpm for an indicated 100km/h. The ratios are a good match for the engine’s performance and the gearshift action, while feeling a little vague, seems to shift accurately.
The basic suspension has no particular shortcomings. It’s part of a package that produces stable and comfortable handling rather than sporty responsiveness.
If you’re in the market for an inexpensive entry-level bike coupled with lovely sportsbike looks, check out the Daelim.
SPEX - Daelim VJF250
ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-valve, DOHC, single-cylinder
Capacity: 246.9cc
Bore and Stroke: 73mm x 59mm
Compression Ratio: ll.8:1
Fuel System: EFI
TRANSMISSION
Type: Five-speed, constant-mesh
Final Drive: Chain
CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame Type: Dual cradle, perimeter
Front Suspension: 37mm telescopic fork, non-adjustable
Rear Suspension: Monoshock, preload adjustable
Front Brakes: Twin 290mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear Brake: Single disc with twin-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Dry Weight: 165kg
Seat Height: 780mm
Fuel Capacity: 15lt
