R15 or Karizma XMR: Best sportbike for city use?

Hello, I am looking to upgrade to a new sports bike from my 2021 Suzuki Gixxer SF. My requirements are that it has to be fully-faired and have better performance than my Gixxer SF. I want it to have good mileage and low maintenance cost. I will be using it mostly for commuting in the city.

Udit Mishra, via email

Autocar India says: For upgrading from your current Suzuki Gixxer SF, there are three credible options - the popular Yamaha R15 V4, the resurrected Hero Karizma XMR and the elder sibling to your current bike - the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250. 

The Yamaha R15 V4 is by far the most popular of these 3 and for good reason - it is a very good sportbike. But for exactly that same reason, we feel that bike won’t fit the bill for your primarily city usage. The ergonomics are far too committed and the small 155cc motor needs to be revved quite a bit to make progress. It is also a pricey machine with the entry level variant priced at Rs 1.82 lakh and the top-spec race replica version going up to Rs 1.98 lakh. 

The Hero Karizma XMR (Rs 1.80 lakh) and the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 (Rs 1,92,100 - Rs 2,05,501)are more rounded machines in comparison. While they have full fairings, these bikes have more all-day comfortable riding positions without being overtly aggressive like the Yamaha. We’d suggest picking between these two motorcycles and a test ride will help you see which one suits you best.

If budget is not an issue you can even opt for the KTM RC 200, although you need to bear in mind that mileage will be much lower and service costs will be much higher. The Bajaj Pulsar RS200 also fits your requirements but it is a rather dated machine in this company now. 

All prices ex-showroom, Delhi. 

Also See:
Hero Karizma XMR vs Yamaha R15 V4 comparison review: Dream catchers

Bajaj Pulsar F250 vs Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 comparison: Chalk & Cheese