Suzuki Gixxer
The GSX-R series DNA makes Suzuki's new flagship an able street machine
All-new? Yes. The Gixxer does not share any parts with Suzuki's other 150cc machine, the GS150R and has been developed on an all-new platform, including engine and chassis. Having What is it? Suzuki India's new flagship, the Gixxer, and the newest entrant in the 150cc segment. The Gixxer has been designed to deliver the best in performance, handling and efficiency, and draws inspiration from Suzuki's globally acclaimed GSX-R series of sportsbikes. established itself as a volume player in the Indian two-wheeler market the Japanese brand is now keen on making a mark in the affordable performance end of motorcycling, and the Gixxer is the first attempt in the direction.
What else? Suzuki has gone in for a minimalist approach while designing the Gixxer, and the end result is a streetbike that is a lean, agile motorcycle that looks well suited for its job of a city slicker. To aid stability and add to the looks of the motorcycle, the Gixxer has been shod with a 100-section tyre upfront and a 140-section at the rear, but these do not look overkill on the motorcycle. With a kerb weight of just 135kg the Gixxer is one of the lightest motorcycles in its class. The stubby exhaust with two ports reminded us of larger capacity sports bikes. The all-digital instrument console is a compact unit, but provides comprehensive information without looking cluttered. A large digital speedometer dominates the fascia, while the tachometer is a horizontal bar at the top. The 155cc air-cooled single cylinder engine uses Suzuki's SEP (Suzuki
Eco Performance) technology that reduces frictional losses to deliver an optimal mix of performance and efficiency. The result is one of the smoothest, most free-revving engines in its class.
Fun to ride? Yes! The riding position is spot on for street riding with a slightly low seat and rear-sets, coupled with the slightly raised handlebars. 41 mm front forks and a 7-step adjustable monoshock at the rear make for one of the best in class ride and handling packages. The bike's light weight and nimble handling made it a hoot to ride in the hills, and directional changes were quick and easy, as the front is communicative and you know what's happening between the tarmac and the tyre. The MRF Zappers offer lots of confidence, be it in the wet or dry. The front disc-rear drum brake combo works well, providing great feedback and adequate bite. This is a fun bike to ride, and should make daily commutes interesting with its peppy engine and able city manners.
Powerful? Output from the carburetted 154.9cc motor is 14.6bhp, amongst the highest in class, while peak torque produced is 14Nm. Low kerb weight and a revvy motor tuned for lots of bottom-end grunt mated to a slick 5-speed transmission ensure acceleration is brisk. This is a motorcycle clearly aimed at slicing through city traffic, and the performance it offers is apt.
Efficient? Suzuki is claiming a fuel efficiency of 63.2kmpl which it says has been made possible thanks to the engine's SEP technology. The high quality of the engine components also contributes to better efficiency, apart from offering a vibe-free feel throughout the rev range. Suzuki motorcycles are also known for excellent build quality, which means cost of ownership will be low as well.
Value? Priced at ` 72,199 (ex-showroom Delhi) the Gixxer undercuts its competition significantly. It is a well designed, good motorcycle that is put together with quality bits and pieces. Performance is likeable, the and ride and handling is among the best in class too. With its flagship status, the Gixxer has a lot riding on it, and the bike does deliver the goods. Suzuki is known for some of the most refined, trouble-free engines, and the Gixxer's unit follows the ideology. A great suspension set-up and excellent brakes round off the package, making the Gixxer an able motorcycle that is fun to ride and affordable too.