THE SUZUKI GS150R

While it is common knowledge that Yamaha’s FZ-16 and YZF-R15 sit leagues higher than their 150cc rivals and TVS Apache RTR stands out with its sporty feel, these up market products don’t come cheap and are not very fuel efficient options either, which leaves a gap open for other 150cc bikes to carve themselves a niche. And that’s where Suzuki has moved in with its all-new GS 150 R. So can the GS fill in the gap, AutoCar (Feb. ’09), takes a road test to find out.

Design & Engineering
Good looks come easy to the GS 150 R. like most new Indian models; the bike conceals elegant, flowing five-spoke alloy wheels and the handlebar and engine clad in a mean shade of black. The GSR has clearly legible amber backlit instruments that are rather intelligent, with a handsome rpm counter set at left and the rest of the bay filled by a digital speedometer plus the usual icons. A helpful gear indicator is inset in the tachometer and displays the gear the bike is in at all times.

This bike includes twin-trip meters, a clock, fuel gauge as well as an economy and power mode indicator. The GS 150 R’s humpbacked , creased fuel tank is delightful to look at as well as feels really comfortable while riding. Chunky, with perfect knee recesses, it comes with beautiful flush fuel filler. The seat flows backwards into a silvered alloy grab handle and the bike uses alloy sub-frame sections to mount the rear footrests.

As expected from Suzuki, the GS is a well-engineered motorcycle, with bright paint luster, good fit and finish, strong build quality and top drawer rubber and plastic parts.

Engine, Gearbox & Performance
The GS 150R has both kick and button starters for its 149.5cc engine. It uses a CV-type, BS 26 carburettor to put together the correct air-fuel mixture for its single cylinder. Power output is a conservative 13.8bhp at 8500rpm, while the maximum torque figure is 1.3kgm at 6000rpm. The GS clutch is smooth to operate and well weighted. Its gearshift quality is butter-smooth but lacks a precise feel. The GS 150R needs to be revved hard and high into its power band to extract serious performance. It could do with improved low and mid-range grunt too, managing to push past 60kph in a lengthy 6.33 seconds. True top speed was achieved by AutoCar testers in fifth gear, at 106kph, with this immediately dropping as soon as the bike shifts into its tall top gear.

Ride, Handling & Braking
The latest Suzuki sits on 18-inch rims at front and rear and uses a single downtube frame with dual front fork suspension and twin gas shock absorbers at the rear. Suzuki has not scrimped on tyres, providing MRF for both ends. The GS 150R comes with a nice seat and an excellent riding position. Ride quality is well throughout, with the GS striking a good balance between firm and plush. Cornering the GS 150R is a pleasure, with its aforementioned stability coming to the fore. A 240mm front disc brake and 130mm pedal-actuated drum at the rear work well together. Fuel efficiency matches rivals.

Verdict
Suzuki’s new GS150R is a competently priced bike with nice overall quality. Plus it comes with a well behaved engine and the added fun of a six-speed gearbox that will undoubtedly gain favour with sporty riders. The GS 150R is a practical bike on its own, one that should satisfy Suzuki’s loyal fans – but don’t expect it to dislodge superior rivals, like the FZ-16 sums up AutoCar (Feb. ’09).