 Suzuki’s gunning for growth in India and projecting a bold new face. Engineered to fill the gap between two emerging 150cc bike sub-segments in India, such as the more up-market models like the Yamaha R15 and TVS apache RTR 1160 FI and the commuter-friendly Honda Unicorn and Bajaj Pulsar types, the Japanese bike-maker has rolled out a brand-new model, the GS 150R to grab a slice of the growing 150cc market. AutoCar (Dec. ’08) takes a first look.
The latest Suzuki looks exciting from the front, thanks to an original GSX-R inspired headlight cluster and twin pilot-lights and the bike’s somewhat cautious smooth lines from head to tail are likely to appeal to a wider audience in the conservative Indian market. This bike will be easily recognizable from the rear, with its horizontal spilt brake light, and integrated turn signal flashers. Don’t miss the GS 150R’s handsome humpback 15.5 litre tank, says AutoCar (Dec. ’08), with its smart knee indents an a neat air-craft inspired filler lid. Attention to detail is of the highest order as seen in the smartly laid out digital instruments, which are set with a typical analogue as well as a digital format cluster that reads out speeds, odometer, trip and fuel level remaining in the bike, in addition to a novel gear indicator and a GSX-R inspired engine rpm indicator. This new feature will inform riders when the bike is at an optimal engine speed to shift gears, via a selectable twin economy or power mode. Buyers have an option of a self or kick starter to get the bike going.
The GS 150R will use machined and silver finished alloy sub-frame sections to mount its rear footrests, as well as a fully enclosed drive chain. The GS 150R rides on 18-inch rims, uses a single down tube frame and provides its conventional front fork suspension with rubber boots to protect from harsh Indian riding conditions. At the rear the bike comes with twin shock absorbers, as well as a rectangle section swing arm. A 240mm front disc brake is standard, as will be a 130mm pedal-actuated drum at the rear.
The four-stroke, air-cooled power-plant can be expected to provide typically smooth Japanese refinement and uses a BS 26, CV-type carburetor to blend air-fuel mixture for its single cylinder. This is the second 150cc bike after the YZF-R15 to be equipped with a sporty six-speed gearbox and Suzuki claims its 13.8bhp, twin-valve engine is tuned towards good low and mid-range power delivery. It builds up a peak torque figure of 1.36kgm at 6000rpm. Priced at Rs. 49,000, the Suzuki will hit Indian roads by February 2009, says AutoCar (Dec. ’08). |
| Article By IndiaBike.com on 22nd January 2009 |
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