Suzuki has recently launched the 2019 edition of its 155cc premium commuter, the Gixxer. The motorcycle was long over due for an update and now, it comes with an all-new design, more features and a fuel-injected motor. Judging by its overall package, the Gixxer faces competition from the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V (FI) and the Yamaha FZ S V3 in India. We check out how these three motorcycles stack up against each other, on paper.
Design and Features
The new kid on the block, the 2019 Gixxer, follows Suzuki’s new-age design language. The motorcycle features sharper and beefier body panels while the new paint schemes give it a fresh appeal. The redesigned headlamp is a radical-looking LED unit now while the tail lamp is also LED. Moreover, the instrument cluster has been updated to a negative display with a simpler layout.
The Yamaha FZ S has also received a comprehensive design makeover this year. It looks more muscular than its predecessor, especially due to the brawny fuel tank and wider tail section. On the feature front, the FZ is equipped similar to the Gixxer with full-LED lighting and a fully-digital instrument cluster. On the other hand, the Apache RTR 160 4V, while sporting a digital display, nevertheless misses out on a LED headlamp and makes do with a conventional bulb. The tail lamp, however, is LED. On the design front, the motorcycle largely retains the sporty styling of its elder sibling, the Apache RTR 200 4V.
Engine
Starting with the FZ, its 149cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected motor churns out the least amount power at 13bhp and 12.8Nm. The Gixxer, on the other hand, is a step ahead as it produces 14.6bhp and 14Nm from its 155cc engine. While this motor is the same as its predecessor, the new Gixxer has been updated with fuel-injected technology. Now, the Apache leads the pack here with a power output of 16.3bhp and 14.8Nm from its 159.7cc, oil-cooled motor. Notably, this mill comprises of four valves, as opposed to two valves in the Gixxer and FZ. Transmission duties on all three bikes are handled by a five-speed gearbox.
Cycle Parts
In the hardware department, the motorcycles are largely identical. Riding on 17-inch wheels, the bikes come equipped with telescopic forks up front and a monoshock at the rear. Braking is taken care of by disc brakes at both ends while single-channel ABS comes as standard. Furthermore, the fuel tank capacity also remains identical at 12-litres. However, considering the kerb weight of the bikes, the FZ is significantly lighter than its rivals, tipping the scales at 132kg. Whereas, the new Gixxer is 8kg heavier at 140kg while the Apache is the heaviest at 147kg.
Pricing
Suzuki has priced the 2019 Gixxer at Rs 1 lakh, which is a premium of Rs 12,000 over the previous edition. The hike is justified by the modern design, added features and replacement of carburetor by fuel-injection. Pegged at Rs 1000 lesser than the Gixxer is the fuel-injected variant of the Apache RTR 160 4V which costs Rs 99,101. While it misses out on a fancy LED headlamp, it runs the most powerful motor in this comparison. Furthermore, the Yamaha FZ S V3 is the most affordable (although moderately) offering of the pack which retails at Rs 98,180. Although it runs the least powerful engine, the FZ does get modern features and appealing aesthetics. Barring the presence of a few cosmetic elements, Yamaha also offers the standard FZ V3 which is cheaper than its S sibling by atleast Rs 2000.
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
