2018 Suzuki Intruder FI review, test ride

    Is the fuel-injected model worth the additional Rs 7,000? We ride it to find out.

    Published on Jul 06, 2018 12:36:00 PM

    39,475 Views

    Make : Suzuki
    Model : Intruder

    Suzuki had launched the fuel-injected Intruder back in March 2018, around four months after the debut of the carburetted bike. Aside from the different method of fuelling, the bike remains largely unchanged. This switch in fuelling, though, has brought about a small change in the feel of the motorcycle. Let’s also discuss how the bike holds its own in the market, eight months after its launch.

    Under the bodywork

    The Intruder FI uses the Gixxer-borrowed 154.9cc air-cooled mill that we know and love, but with similar changes to the air box and sprocket sizes as seen on the standard Intruder. The motor continues to produce 14.8hp and 14Nm of torque and, like the Gixxer, the Intruder FI comes with a precise and refined gearbox. The only change on the spec sheet is the difference in weight – the FI weighs 1kg over the carb bike for a total of 149kg. This weight gain is negligible, but there is a noticeable change that comes in the form of improved throttle response.

    Suzuki Intruder FI rear static

    Beyond this, the bike feels very similar to its carburetted sibling and the FI motor feels refined with a strong mid-range, but a weak top-end. Unfortunately, we never had the chance to perform an efficiency test on the carb bike, but the FI model returned a decent 47.17kpl on the highway and 43.13kpl in the city. Suzuki doesn’t claim official figures, but our test numbers are quite close to what we achieved on the carburetted Gixxer, so we don’t expect to see a vast difference between carb and FI efficiency on the intruder either.

    Suzuki Intruder FI exhaust

    Styling still strikes

    Yes, the Intruder still manages to turn just as many heads as when we first rode it, and it still does this without the use of bright colour schemes or complex sticker work. The unique headlight, long fuel tank, curvy bodywork, wide tail and gigantic exhaust are styling touches unlike any other motorcycle in this price bracket. So it doesn’t come as a bad thing that the only visual difference from the carburetted version is a fuel-injection decal near the headlight cowl – this bike is still going to catch just as much attention!

    Suzuki Intruder FI front static

    On the road

    The Intruder FI continues to offers a relaxed, feet-front riding position that is accommodating for tall riders, while the low 740mm seat height means it will be friendly to riders of all sizes. The bike shares its frame (albeit a modified version), tyres and brakes with the Gixxer, which means the Intruder inherits its sporty dynamics. It may look lethargic by design, but the Intruder will surprise many in the corners – it changes direction well and has a nice, stable feel. Comfort levels are high for the most part, except for when you hit those menacingly large speed breakers or potholes. While the bike doesn’t lose composure, it is you who will feel the hit because of the rear shock (that offers less travel than the Gixxer) and riding position. Keep in mind that all of these traits are the same on the carb Intruder.

    Suzuki Intruder FI front wheel

    Eeny meeny miny…

    Priced at Rs 1.07 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Intruder FI costs Rs 7,000 more than the carburetted variant. While it does offer the convenience of slightly better throttle response and the convenience of not having to worry about a choke, we would suggest saving the money and going for the carb bike, as the overall experience is quite similar.

    Also see:

    2017 Suzuki Intruder 150 video review

    2017 Suzuki Intruder 150 review, test ride

    Suzuki Bikes

    Tech Specs

    Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.

    Comments
    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now
    Search By Bike Price
    Poll of the month

    What do you think of the Jaguar rebrand?

    It's too radical and ignores the brand's legacy

     

    57.52%

    It's exactly what's needed to revive a dying brand

     

    10.62%

    It's fine as long as the products are good

     

    31.86%

    Total Votes : 612
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe