Suzuki aims to make a mark on the 150cc segment with its new Gixxer. But does it have what it takes? Here's a first look report.
It's been 13 long years since Suzuki parted ways with TVS in 2001, and entered India in 2004 as a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan. And since then, the company has launched its superbikes like the Hayabusa, Intruder M1800R/M800, GSX-R1000 and Bandit 1250SA as CBU offerings as well as new models specifically designed for the masses. However, the company has not been able to gain a strong hold with its mass market offerings. The Japanese manufacturer currently has a few offerings in the commuter segment, which include motorcycles from both 100cc and 150cc segment, GS150R being the only model in the 150cc segment. But as the saying goes, better late than never and Suzuki is finally launching the new Gixxer in July 2014, which it claims to be a premium 150cc offering designed for the youth.
The first media unveil of the Gixxer in Mumbai created quite a stir, with the motorcycle making its way to the Auto Expo 2014 for its second unveil. The Gixxer looks svelte in comparison to the GS150R, with aerodynamic lines from start to end, projecting itself as an aggressive motorcycle. Its compact v-shaped headlamp, comprising a halogen headlight and a parking light, adds to its overall design philosophy. An orange backlit digital instrument cluster with a speedometer, a horizontally ascending tachometer that is redlined at 9500rpm, an odometer, a fuel-gauge, trip-meters and a clearly positioned gear-shift indicator, along with a high beam, neutral indicator and turn signals on each side, is provided for rider information. The Gixxer gets a short handlebar finished in black similar to the Yamaha FZ-16 which provides a relatively comfortable upright riding position.
There's also good quality grips, switchgear and mirrors with a textured rear. The tank is neatly chiselled with deep curves on both sides and a slightly elevated mid-section which drapes down into a saddle that gives a sporty look with its red stitching from midway to the end. The shrouding on the sides enhance the Gixxer's sporty appeal, with black side panels neatly covering the carburettor from both sides. The Gixxer's stubby exhaust canister gets a chrome rear end and a heat plate that looks and feels premium. The pillion seat comes with body coloured grab rails that are smartly embedded with the motorcycle's design lines, while an LED tail-light makes its way to the rear. Overall, the attractive new Gixxer feels rich with good build quality, and attention to detail.