Suzuki Gixxer BS6: Same Price, Other Options

Find the newly launched Gixxer BS6 too expensive for what it offers? Worry not, you have plenty of other options to choose from!

After debuting the Suzuki Gixxer BS6 at the Auto Expo 2020, the Japanese brand has finally launched the motorcycle in the country at Rs 1,11,900 (ex-showroom Delhi). This makes it the most expensive 160cc naked in the country. If you feel the asking price is a bit too much, we explore some of the interesting alternatives that you can buy for around the same ballpark. 

But before we dive in, be advised that the BS4-compliant two-wheelers included in this list might be available only in select dealerships. That’s because a number of dealers are currently emptying out their inventory to make space for the BS6-compliant versions. If you’re lucky, certain dealers might also throw in some good discounts. Here are your choices:

Bajaj Pulsar NS200 BS4 Price: Rs 1,14,355

The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 BS4 is the most performance-oriented bike in this list. Priced at Rs 1,14,355 (ex-showroom Delhi), it is just Rs 2,484 dearer than the Suzuki Gixxer BS6. For such a small premium, you get a much more advanced, powerful liquid-cooled engine which churns out 23.5PS at 9500rpm and 18.3Nm at 8000rpm. 

This coupled with the six-speed transmission should help in cruising on the highway at triple-digit speeds on the highway comfortably. The braking hardware is pretty decent too. It gets a large 300mm front petal disc and a 230mm petal disc at the rear, along with a single-channel ABS. 

Royal Enfield Bullet 350 with single-channel ABS Price: Rs 1,14,755

If you’re interested in going old-school, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 with single-channel ABS (BS4) is your best bet. It is the most affordable model under the Royal Enfield lineup until the BS6-compliant version arrives. The 346cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine offers decent torque but it may not be apt to ride at high speeds. Stick to 80kmph and below and the bike thumps away effortlessly. The 20PS, 28Nm 346cc air-cooled carburetted motor is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

Since it is the most affordable model, Royal Enfield has compromised a bit when it comes to underpinnings. It gets skinnier tyres on both ends and the rear end uses a drum brake. All said and done, for Rs 2,884 more than the Suzuki Gixxer BS6, the Bullet 350 is a great way to enter the Royal Enfield lifestyle, which includes regular long-distance trips organised by the brand across the country.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6 Price: 1,04,000

The Suzuki Gixxer BS6’s primary rival, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS6 (Rs 1.04 lakh ex-Delhi) is more affordable by a whole Rs 7,871. Apart from being affordable, it also gets sportier bodywork than the Gixxer and a new Glide Through Traffic feature. This helps in crawling the bike at low speeds effortlessly. 

Another great aspect about this motorcycle is that despite the slight loss in output figures compared to the BS4 motorcycle, it still remains as sprightly as ever. Even with 16.02PS and 14.12Nm on tap, it is considerably more powerful compared to the Gixxer BS6’s 13.6PS and 13.8Nm motor. 

Hero XPulse 200 BS4 Price: Rs 1,06,500

The Hero XPulse 200 BS4 is the ideal motorcycle to choose if you’re into off-road riding. The bike gets a proper off-road friendly 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels with dual-purpose tyres and long-travel suspension (telescopic front fork and 10-step preload-adjustable rear monoshock). The XPulse 200 gets 190mm travel up front and 170mm travel at the rear. This coupled with a generous 220mm ground clearance should help you go over harsh terrains effortlessly.

The only grinch is that the 18.4PS, 17.1Nm fuel-injected motor will feel a bit strained on the highway. The 5-speed transmission doesn’t help in high-speed cruising either. While the seat is narrow, some of the shorter riders might find the 823mm seat height a little intimidating. Thankfully, it is fairly easy to manoeuvre as it is reasonably light at 154kg.

Bajaj Chetak Electric Premium Price: Rs 1.15 lakh (ex-showroom Pune & Bengaluru)

If you’re looking for something really eco-friendly, the Bajaj Chetak Premium variant is an interesting option. Its build quality is pretty impressive and it is loaded with modern features like all-LED lighting system, full digital instrument cluster along with smartphone connectivity. As far as the performance is concerned, the scooter feels on par with petrol-powered 110cc scooters, which is enough for everyday commutes. 

The catch is that the Chetak electric scooter is available only in Pune and Bengaluru as of now, with more cities in the pipeline. Also, it lacks fast charging capability. The scooter uses a conventional socket and charges completely in five hours. If your daily commute is a fixed route that’s strictly within city limits, the Chetak makes a good case for itself.

All prices except for the Chetak are ex-showroom Delhi.