Suzuki Gixxer SF Fi First Ride Review

How does it ride?

Compact, agile and dynamic – when all these aspects are added, the outcome is the Suzuki Gixxer SF Fi. This motorcycle is outstanding when it comes to ride quality and handling. The suspension setup is perfect for any conditions. An upright riding position, comfortable knee recesses even for tall riders and not-so-rear footpegs result in ideal city manners. For long haul too, the wide, comfortable single seat proves to be of great help. There’s nothing fancy about the Gixxer SF Fi. It gets telescopic forks in the front and a monoshock at the rear, MRF tyres and single downtube frame. But it has the ability to put other bikes in its class to shame.

Take it to the twisties and the Gixxer SF Fi won’t disappoint. The compact dimensions and the chassis help tame corners easily. The inclusion of a rear disc brake lets you go a little faster and more aggressive on the corners as well as on the straights because there’s better braking available. The power, the bite and the feel at the lever is great.

The 155cc single-cylinder engine gets fuel injection and unlike the FZ FI, hasn’t led to a decrease in power. The throttle response is a lot crisper now especially at lower revs, and the 14.8bhp is delivered in a linear way. There’s more than enough torque at low and mid-range to take care of city traffic. The acceleration in first and second gear is surprising enough to fool a new rider into believing it is a larger-displacement engine. It also pulls comfortably from as low as 40kmph in top gear with my weight. The top end performance, too, has increased marginally. The footpeg vibrations still exist, but have decreased notably. The Gixxer SF Fi returned us an impressive fuel efficiency of 58.8kmpl.

Anything else should I know?

The Gixxer SF Fi can be differentiated from the carb version through the presence of a tiny ‘fuel injection’ logo on the top left of the fairing. There’s also no kick starter or fuel pet cock on the Gixxer SF Fi. You should also note that Suzuki hasn’t equipped the Gixxer naked bike with fuel -injection. But we expect that to happen sometime early next year.

Should I buy one?

The only negative the SF has is the width of the mirrors – it makes it difficult to filter through standing traffic. Otherwise the Gixxer SF Fi deals with everything that’s thrown at it with ease. It handles exceptionally and offers a comfortable ride too. With the fuel injection, the overall riding experience has improved and the presence of a rear disc brake means less braking distance and more confidence. If you’re not a fan of the faired motorcycle, you’ll be happy to know that the Gixxer FI will be launched sometime next year.

Where does it fit in?

The Suzuki Gixxer SF Fi is priced at Rs 1,15,167 (on-road Mumbai), which is Rs 8944 more over its main rival – the Yamaha Fazer Fi V 2.0. But the latter misses out on the rear disc brake. There’s also the Honda CB Hornet 160R at Rs 96,992 (on-road Mumbai) but it does not possess fuel injection or a fairing.

Gear Check

1: HJC Rpha 10: The Rpha 10 might be an old model now, but it offers good comfort and fit. The air vents perform flawlessly. Price – Rs 37,000

2: Sena 3S Helmet Bluetooth system: This has made my life easy. The voice clarity is brilliant, so is the usability. It’s affordable, durable and practical. The rubber quality on the two-button control unit could have been better. Price – Rs 7499

3: Rjays Octane Jacket: Not on sale anymore but when it was, it used to be a value-for-money product. There is a much-improved version in the Octane II which is priced at Rs 8,499.

4: Ixon RS Circuit HP Gloves: Good fit, usability and practicality makes this pair of gloves my first choice. Overall quality is good for the price. Price – Rs 8000

5: Royal Enfield Kaza Classic Adventure Touring Trousers: Fit is good. Offers usability and flexibility. Could use a little more ventilation, though. Price – Rs 10,000

6: SIDI B2 boots: Nice all-round boots for track and road riding. Offers ample protection but lack ventilation. Price - Rs 17,000

Photography by Kapil Angane