The Suzuki Gixxer has been an instrumental motorcycle in changing how we look at Suzuki Two Wheelers in India. The motorcycle has gone through two updates. At the end of the update of this one, we finally got some extra time with it. Slightly more than three months with the Gixxer 150, it reminded us of many things. At the same time, we tested the BS6 engine for the very first time extensively. Let’s find out what it offers even today between heavy competition.
When it comes to design, the headlamp is very futuristic. A true evolution over the last generation. The LED lights spread and illumination is good enough. The tank shape is largely muscular and sharp at the same time thanks to tank extensions. Dual port exhaust is my favourite part as this one of the first motorcycle to get this in the Indian market. The rear tail-lamp with sleek style layout also is a true Japanese tradition carried forward. The alloy wheels, body-blow engine belly fairing, and subtle graphics on both motorcycles are easily make it look, but slightly date in 2024. Overall, a motorcycle looks good and is proportionate thanks to good fit, finish, and quality.
The instrument cluster is a single screen with a digital layout showing a fuel gauge, trip meter, eco-driving manner, service indicators, and more. The telltale lights and digital tachometer make it slightly overwhelming in a small screen size. Switchgear is old too on the motorcycles and it is not that high on quality or has top-notch tactility. Connectivity features are on offer as well. However, it does show fuel economy parameters. Mirrors offer a good view of what is behind but could have been bigger.
The ergonomics are the same as any Suzuki. You sit “inside” the bike with the handlebar being a bit stretched for the sporty feel. Seat height is good enough for most people who are 5’6 and above. While the taller one’s just about to get enough legroom for comfort. Footpegs are rear set which helps grab the tank rather well. Seat comfort for rider and pillion is surprisingly good too.
Powering the motorcycle is an all-new 150cc engine making 13.6 PS and 13.8 Nm of torque from a 2-valve, SOHC, air engine. The motor is mated to a 5-speed smooth-shifting gearbox that operates with a very light clutch action. Assist slipper clutch does its job really well. The refinement is highest in its class. You can rev it all the way up and there are negligible vibrations on the handlebar, seats, and footpegs.
Low and mid-range torque is where it excels, as it does lack punch after 100 km/hr. The cruising speed is around 90 km/hr. The top speed is 135 km/hr on the speedo. The soundtrack, be it intake or exhaust note is throaty and loud like how the Gixxer has been since inception. This is a tall order from Suzuki to maintain despite toning and tuning down of engine for BS6 emissions.
Throttle response is precise and power delivery is now linear. Fuelling is sorted throughout the rev range and makes it easy to ride in the city. Fuel economy was recorded always around 44 km/l which is a very good number. Overall, there is nothing really to complain about, as this simple and beautiful approach towards a 150cc engine. The slight lack of power and torque and lack of fuel economy drop says that Suzuki worked very hard to get this right. Plans to keep this engine alive in one or many ways for the time ahead seems on the charts.
Dynamically, the front rake and trail are sharp, making it easy and quick to chuck into a corner. Composure while cornering is great thanks to a solid chassis setup that includes a small wheelbase. The excellent tires which gripped so well despite pushing on the twisties, road and highway confirms our long term than extra term for a road test, but enough for a full long term review as aforementioned earlier.
Suspension is well tuned and the ground clearance makes things easier going all sorts of things our roads can throw at it. Front forks seems ideally tuned for our conditions, but it can feel stiff and not provide much feedback. The rear suspension is adjustable and is mounted to the swingarm. Ride quality is truly impressive over all kinds of roads and that is a solid balance to achieve which shows the dedication towards the role of sportiness.
The brakes are great too with a good bite at the lever, if not exceptional for a bike in this segment. High-speed stability is good too with a light or heavy rider, the suspension seems adept for all. It can be a touch soft for very heavy riders, but a few clicks up, it will be great. Manoeuvring at parking speeds, nimble-ness at slow speed makes the Gixxer a great buy like any other Suzuki product. requires no effort.
Overall, the most analogue 150cc bike you can buy which is still on par with 2024 customer requirements. Back then, when these motorcycles were launched, they were priced at appropriate prices. However, now with most costs coming from high taxes and government regulations of ABS, BS6 and other aspects make it a bit expensive in my mind. However, they are still considered more value and the aforementioned is a long debate that should one day be settled. Right now, the Gixxer 150 has what it takes to be a great motorcycle in this segment, but it is behind its premium rivals who are venturing into 160 and 180cc segment with higher output at similar prices and a bit more equipment. The market is asking for premium, we hope Suzuki is ready with something too.
