2006 Hyosung GT Review

The 2006 Hyosung GT is quite a peculiar bike. Released by South Korean conglomerate Hyosung Corporation for the 2006 model year, it bares many similarities with its counterparts from Japanese competitors, such as Suzuki and Kawasaki. Also, it does not fall into any particular model type: with versions split into standard, on-road biking; and more performance-oriented racing.

Five models of the 2006 Hyosung GT exist: the GT 250 and GT 250R, which fall under the 250-Series umbrella; and the GT 650, GT 650S and GT 650R, which comprise the 650 Series. The GT 250 and GT 650 are classified as the standard bikes, best for everyday riding. The other models--GT 250R, GT 650S and GT 650S--are for the sports or performance enthusiasts. Each version of the ‘06 Hyosung GT bike are named after its engine displacement: 249 or 647 cubic centimeters (rounded up to 250 cc and 650 cc, respectively). The manufacturer's suggested retail prices are $3,794 for the GT 250, $3,699 for the GT 250R, $5,694 for the GT 650, $6,094 for the GT 650S and $6,494 for the GT 650R.

The engine on each 2006 Hyosung GT is a four-stroke V-twin (two-cylinder) engine, with four intake valves on each cylinder. Depending on the model, the engine is air, oil or liquid-cooled for reducing overheating. The bore & stroke and compression ratio are 2.25 by 1.92 inches (57 by 48.8 millimeters) and 10.2 to 1 on the GT 250 Series; and 3.21 by 2.44 inches (81.5 by 62 millimeters) and 11.6 to 1 on the GT 650 Series. Two Mikuni carburetors go on each ‘06 Hyosung GT for blending air and fuel for the engine, which can be ignited with the integrated electric starter. Accompanying the engine is a five-speed manual transmission on the GT 250 Series and six-speed manual gearbox on the GT 650 Series. For fuel, each bike comes with a 4.5-gallon (17-liter) gas tank with a 0.7-gallon (2.5-liter) reserve.

The 2006 Hyosung GT is available in a Black, Metallic Blue, Red or Yellow color scheme. At the front is a digital dashboard that contains a tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, temperature warning gauge and fuel level warning light, with Hyosung including a clock on the GT 650S and GT 650R models. Standard on all 2006 Hyosung GTs are halogen headlights, rearview mirrors, all-wheel disc brakes for superior braking, suspension that consists of an inverted fork and twin-sided swing arm, and under-seat and lockable storage. A tinted windshield goes on the GT 650S and GT 650R.

Due to several available models, the 2006 Hyosung GT varies greatly from one version to another in terms of weight and physical dimensions. However, each bike rides on 17-inch aluminum wheels for optimal performance.

Next to entries from strong Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, the 2006 Hyosung GT is rather obscure. However, with its comparatively low price, it surely cannot hurt to give it a shot.