Suzuki GSX-R150: Bikes We’d Like To See In India

The GSX-R150 is a full-fledged supersport that could put up a tough fight against the Yamaha R15 V3

Suzuki shifted its focus from mass market two-wheelers to premium products early last year. This gave rise to a couple of sporty offerings like the new-gen Gixxer and Gixxer SF series. Though Suzuki is known for producing some of the best entry-level performance-oriented bikes in the world, it isn’t very evident in the Gixxer platform. Understandably so, as these bikes are designed to enthusiastic commuters rather than out-and-out performance motorcycles. But that’s not to say that Suzuki couldn’t enter this space in the future. It already has the means to do so with the GSX-R150 which is currently sold in Indonesia. And here’s why we believe Suzuki should bring the bike to India.

Why should it come to India?

The brand currently lacks a sporty offering in the 150cc segment that’s dominated by the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3. Yamaha has already proven time and again with all the iterations of the R15 that there is space for such a genre in the Indian two-wheeler market. And the GSX-R150 could be the perfect fit here, giving enthusiasts more options and opportunities to choose from in the entry-level performance segment. 

Also Read: Suzuki GSX-R150 Revealed With 2020 MotoGP Livery

What makes it special?

The GSX-R150 is essentially a watered down GSX R1000R. Yes, it’s not nearly as powerful or tech laden like its older sibling, but it has heart. And by that we mean it carries the same racing DNA. The bike is pegged to be the perfect track tool and gets an aerodynamic design, a committed riding posture, a responsive chassis and underpinnings to match the same. Slap on some sticky tyres with a couple of body modifications and you could take the bike straight to the track. Oh, and it looks bloody good!

Performance packed:

The GSX-R150 may pack a slightly smaller 147.3cc engine compared to the R15. Despite this, it's capable of producing near-identical power figures as its rival --  19.2PS at 10,500rpm and 14Nm at 9000rpm. What helps it do so is its DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) setup which allows the engine to burn fuel better, offer better fuel efficiency and improve overall power output. 

Also Read: Suzuki GSX-R150 vs Yamaha R15 V3: Spec Comparison

Comfortable ergonomics:

The bike's designed to be small, compact and gets a short wheelbase (1300mm) which should make it a lot easier to manoeuvre in city traffic and flickable out in the twisties. What also works for the GSX-R150 is a low seat height of 785mm which would be appreciated by short riders. The rider's triangle is more easy-going than the R15, with the seat being positioned a tad lower than the clip-on handlebars. Basically, you could spend more time on the saddle as opposed to the R15 V3.

Features and mechanicals:

The bike isn’t low on features either. It comes with an LED headlamp and tail lamp, fully digital instrument cluster with a gear position indicator, keyless start system and hazard lamps function. In terms of hardware, the bike gets a telescopic front fork and a rear Showa linked monoshock. Anchoring the supersport is a 290mm petal disc up front and a 187mm rear petal disc with dual-channel ABS. The entire package weighs in at just 136kg kerb.

Also Read: 2020 Suzuki GSX-R150 Unveiled. Gets Striking New Colour Schemes

Problem area:

The only issue Suzuki could face is its pricing. You see the Suzuki GSX-R150 costs Rp 34,600,000 in Indonesia, which roughly translates to about 1.71 lakh in India. That’s a little over Rs 26,000 more expensive than the BS6 Yamaha R15 V3. However, Suzuki could price the bike more competitively if it manages to localise the product. If the Japanese brand manages to do so without hampering the quality of the product it could give the R15 a run for its money.