Suzuki Gixxer (2014-2018)

The Suzuki Gixxer is one of the most attractive street bikes in the 160cc segment. The bike looks modern and bold, thanks to its smart triangle-shaped headlamp cluster with a bikini fairing, wide handlebar, sculpted fuel tank with optimum knee recesses and the carved out single-seat unit. The tail section comprises of a triangular LED tail light which in combination with a body-coloured grab rail lend the rear a sporty look as well. Further, the twin-exhaust setup with chrome-garnished muffler not only adds to the sportiness but improves exhaust efficiency as well. What’s worth highlighting is the smart fully digital instrument cluster that displays RPM indicator, gear position indicator, dual tripmeter, gear shift indicator in addition to the basic readouts. The standard and dual disc variants are offered in three shades, while the Gixxer SP is available in an exclusive black/red paint job, with matte finish and new graphics.

The 2018 edition Gixxer continues to draw power from the same engine that powered its predecessor. The 154.9cc BSIV-compliant, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine is powered by Suzuki's Eco-Performance (SEP) technology that promises dynamic mid-range power and a punchier experience. It also helps in the reduction of mechanical loss, thereby increasing the fuel efficiency. The power and torque are rated at 14.8PS at 8000rpm and 14Nm at 6000rpm respectively. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Though Suzuki claims that it returns a fuel economy of 64kmpl, expect it to return around 55kmpl in real world conditions.

Nothing has been changed on the 2018 edition Gixxer as far as suspension assembly is concerned. The bike rides on beefy 41mm telescopic front forks and a monoshock at the rear. The rear setup is tuned to match the wide rear tyre that helps in handling while keeping it stable on rough terrains. The kerb weight of just 135kg makes it flickable in the city while the wide handlebar in accordance with adequate weight distribution adds to the manoeuvrability. On the braking front, it gets a 230mm front disc and a rear drum as standard while other variants - Dual Disc and the Gixxer SP - come equipped with a disc brake at the rear too. The 17-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in MRF tyres (100/80-17 front and 140/60R-17 rear) that are extremely grippy and more than capable of handling the wet roads in monsoon.

The front disc and rear drum on the standard variant provides enough confidence while braking. The disc brakes on both ends on the high-spec models further boost confidence. For enhanced visibility, the bike comes with Automatic Headlamp On (AHO).