2012 Hyosung GT250 spied

The Hyosung GT250 has been a mainstay of the Korea motorcycle maker's fleet since its inception back in 2005, capturing the attention of riders thanks to its affordability and modern looks.

Fast forward to 2011 and those modern looks are beginning to date.

But Hyosung has been working on the issue it seems, as the new 2012 model - recently spied testing in Korea in what appears to be full production form - shows off a subtle new look.

The main cosmetic update is the modified front headlamp styling, which ditches the old circular headlamp style in favour of a hexagonal unit.

The rest of the bike appears to be relatively similar, suggesting this is just a mild visual refresh.

Powered by an air-cooled 249cc V-twin engine, the entry-level LAMS approved Hyosung GT250 model has been a strong seller for Hyosung over the years, currently priced at $5490. A few of us here in the office were talking about the increasing number of 250cc models available to new riders nowadays, from the top-selling Kawasaki Ninja 250R to the new Honda CBR250R, along with newcomers such as the Daelim VJF250.

When it came to discussion of the Hyosung 250 range, most of us agreed it was in need of a new look - and a few days later we see these spy photos. Coincidence? Yeah, probably.

It's not known if Hyosung has made any mechanical changes to the GT250, but from what we're able to deduce from the photos it would appear as though it's business as usual for the plucky V-twin. It appears to retains the same front 51mm (non-adjustable) forks and rear suspension, single 300mm front disc brake, twin-spar steel frame, rear sub frame and body work.

We're crossing our fingers for an engine upgrade, but it's probably not likely until an all-new model arrives, which is still a handful of years away. The same 29hp (21kW) 22Nm output is expected and the bike looks to be fitted with the same exhaust can.

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