Suzuki Intruder

Suzuki India has launched the MY 2019 Intruder 150 FI. For this year, the bike gets a new Titanium Silver paint job, updated gearshift and brake pedal assembly for more comfortable ergonomics, and a pillion backrest. At Rs 108,162 (ex-showroom Delhi), the new Intruder commands a premium of Rs 955 over the 2018 model. 

Based on the famous Suzuki Gixxer 150, the Intruder 150 is a big bulky motorcycle. The virtual mass added to the bike is something that’s been inspired by the previously popular Intruder M1800R. Design-wise, it is nothing less than the elephant of the jungle- big, comfortable and surprisingly swift. It comes with high-end ergonomics and stylish cruiser elements that make it stand out in the segment. Despite a kerb weight of 148Kg which is 8Kg more than Gixxer SF, it lets you feel in the same ballpark as the SF. The motor fitted underneath the bulky design is highly capable and performance-oriented. There is enough pulling power generated to meet the expectations of the rider. Providing confidence to the rider are elements like ABS (Anti-lock braking system), discs at both ends and longer wheelbase. The comfort remains intact with the cushy wide seat set at a low 740mm height, compact handlebar and suspension assembly of telescopic front forks and adjustable mono-shock absorbers at the rear. It competes against the likes of Bajaj Avenger 150 in the Indian cruiser motorcycle market. 

Suzuki Intruder 150 has enough visual mass to grab the attention of passers-by. The design is bulgy and curved, but modern. You’d smell the plush feel as you come close to this bike. Up front, there is a triangular-shaped headlamp with LED DRLs that is surrounded by a large cowl. Moving on there is a bulbous tank with massive extensions and curvy and wider seat for utmost comfort. The material, size and design of the seat are satisfactory. Over the side, the bike gets a premium Intruder emblem that adds sparkle to its overall visual appeal. Nearing the end, there is a dual-exhaust set up for improved exhaust efficiency. The exhausts are uniquely designed and garnished with silver plastic cladding that grants the bike an upmarket look. At the rear, a compact LED tail lamp is placed that gives it a pleasing ending. The LED lights are laid out horizontally that do not disturb the overall style package of the Intruder 150. 

Talking about the instrument cluster, the Intruder 150 gets a smart full-digital meter with the same RPM indicator as that for Hayabusa. The LCD display is quite compact and displays all the necessary readings that the rider needs to know while and post riding sessions. Whenever the ignition is turned on “READY GO” text appears after the animation on the display ends. The display is cramped and it requires you to figure out what/how/where of the displayed information the first time you get it rolling.

There are way too many plastic panels (20 in total), which can be a concern for the buyers. Considering the standards of roads in India, it would be a matter of time when these panels will start to rattle or may even get cracked.

Dimensionally, the Suzuki Intruder 150 measures 2130mm long, 805mm wide and 1095mm high. The ground clearance of the bike sits at 170mm and the wheelbase at 1405mm. There are two colour choices for the buyers to pick, Metallic Gray and Glass Sparkle Black.

Under the flesh, the Suzuki Intruder 150 has a single-cylinder, air-cooled 4-stroke 154.9cc engine that is capable of churning out a max power of 14.8Ps at 8,000rpm and a peak torque of 14Nm at 6,000rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed transmission system that is responsible to power the wheels of the bike. The company claims that it can yield a fuel efficiency of 44Kmpl. The bike’s engine is powered by SEP (Suzuki Eco Performance) that is also regarded as the next-generation engine from the Suzuki- great for low fuel consumption and superior acceleration.

The fitted suspension assembly is reliable and capable to smoothly pass over the bumps and undulations that roads may offer. At the front, there are telescopic forks while at the rear there are swing arm type mono-shock absorbers. The ride quality on offer is quite firm and satisfactory. On the braking front, the front as well as the rear end, gets disc brakes that provide optimum braking force and stopping power to the bike whenever needed. Further, ABS performs its duties incredibly well with absolutely no drama. 

Providing confidence and safety to the rider and the pillion is the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) that comes as standard on the Intruder 150. It automatically controls the braking force and prevents locking of wheels on slippery surfaces, rough road contours and even when brakes are applied suddenly. There are discs at the front and at the rear that contribute significantly to the safety front.