Suzuki has majorly overhauled its 155cc fully-faired offering, the Gixxer SF 155 for 2019 in India. The motorcycle was long due for a comprehensive update since it was launched in 2015. Now, the next-gen model features a new design and tweaked mechanicals. In terms of competition, the Gixxer SF 155 goes up against the Yamaha YZF R15 V3 and Hero’s newly-launched Xtreme 200S. We scrutinize how the three motorcycles fare against each other on paper.
Design and Features:
The Gixxer SF 155 has been bestowed with Suzuki’s new design language which is similar to its elder sibling, the Gixxer SF 250. The motorcycle now sports a more hunkered down stance with an edgier fairing while the new design of the headlamp and tail lamp blends well with the overall aesthetics. The Yamaha YZF R15 V3 features a more aggressive design with a tall windscreen, angular fairing and an upswept tail section. On the other hand, the Hero Xtreme 200S boasts of a more upright stance as compared to the other two. While it gets a distinctively-designed front fascia, the rest of the styling has been retained from its naked sibling, the Xtreme 200R.
The new Gixxer SF 155 now comes equipped with clip-on handlebars and split seat, similar to the YZF R15 V3. The Xtreme 200S, however, comes with a one-piece seat and a single-unit handlebar. All three being new-age motorcycles, they are equally equipped with modern features such as a fully-digital instrument cluster and all-LED lighting.
Engine:
Starting with the Hero Xtreme 200S, the motorcycle is powered a 199.6cc, air-cooled, carbureted motor which is the highest-displacement engine of the lot. This unit produces 18.2bhp and 17.1Nm and comes mated to a five-speed gearbox. The R15 V3, despite having a smaller 155cc, liquid-cooled engine, is benefitted by fuel-injection and VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology. The result is a healthy power delivery of 18.7bhp and 15Nm. Furthermore, it also gets a six-speed gearbox along with a slipper clutch which aids in keeping the bike stable during aggressive down shifts.
Now, the 2019 Gixxer SF 155 is powered by a 155cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected motor which has been retained from the previous-gen bike. This motor produces the least power amongst the three; 13.9bhp and 14Nm. Although, the engine is not fully BS-VI complaint yet, Suzuki has made a few changes to improve the quality of emissions which has resulted in a mild drop in its power figures.
Cycle Parts:
Suzuki has tweaked the cycle parts of the 2019 Gixxer SF 155 in order to improve the handling of the bike. The single downtube chassis now gets a thicker centre tube while the telescopic suspension at the front has also been stiffened. The monoshock at the rear remains unchanged though. Braking on the new Gixxer is handled by disc brakes at both ends and a single-channel ABS is offered as standard.
Underpinned by a diamond-type frame, the Hero Xtreme 200S comes equipped with 37mm telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Braking hardware remains similar to the Gixxer with a single-channel ABS being offered here as well. Now, the Yamaha YZF R15 V3 is built around a Deltabox frame and gets an aluminum swingarm which gives it an upper hand in the handling department. While the suspension and braking setup is similar to the other two bikes, the R15 gets a dual-channel ABS as opposed to the single-channel unit on the Gixxer SF 155 and Xtreme 200S.
Pricing:
The Yamaha YZF R15 V3 is the most expensive motorcycle here at Rs 1.39 lakhs. The price tag is justified owing to the features such as slipper clutch and dual-channel ABS along with a highly potent engine featuring VVA tech. However, the R15 offers ergonomics that are way too sporty as compared to the other two. The Suzuki Gixxer SF 155 is more affordable as compared to the R15 at Rs 1.09 lakhs. While both bikes are on par in term of features, the Yamaha gets better components and a more-powerful engine. Now, the Hero Xtreme 200S is the most affordable here at Rs 98,400. Despite the sporty looks, it offers comfortable ergonomics and the 200cc motor and modern features which make it a value-for-money proposition.
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
