We are just a few days away from the implementation of BS6 emission norms, set to take place on 1 April 2020. By now, a lot of manufacturers have updated their products accordingly. In the 150-160cc segment, the most recent update was received by the Suzuki Gixxer. It goes up against the Yamaha FZ S V3 and the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, both of which have received BS6-bound updates. While we are yet to ride them back to back for a comparison review, let’s check out which one’s superior in terms of specifications.
Design
All three motorcycles feature a fresh design as they had received an aesthetic makeover last year. While the FZ looks bulbous and beefy, the Apache and Gixxer are more on the sportier side with sleek body panels. Notably, the latter two carry a styling closely similar to their larger displacement siblings which gives them an edge in this department.
Features
A couple of features which were fancy add-ons a few years back have now become a common fitment with growing competition. This has resulted in most of the bikes being equipped with LED headlamp and tail lamps along with LED DRLs which are available in these bikes as well. A fully-digital console is also common here. However, one feature which helps the Apache stand out is TVS’ GTT (glide through technology) for effortless slow-speed riding in traffic.
Engine
The Yamaha FZ is the least powerful motorcycle of the three. It is powered by a 149cc, air-cooled motor which churns out 12.2bhp and 13.6Nm. While the Gixxer is slightly more powerful than the FZ, it has lost a considerable amount of horses with the BS6 update. Powered by a 155cc, air-cooled engine, it produces 13.4bhp and 13.8Nm. Now, outperforming its rivals on the performance front is the Apache. It not only produces more power at 15.8bhp and 14.12Nm, but also gets a four-valve engine with oil-cooling, as opposed to two valves and air-cooling in its competitors.
Cycle Parts
The hardware package of these bike are nearly identical. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks up front and a monoshock at the rear. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends with single channel ABS. Notably, only Apache gets petal-type discs which provide better heat dissipation.
Although they share the same 17-inch wheel size, there’s a difference in tyre width – Gixxer and FZ get 100mm and 140mm tyres on the front and rear, respectively, while the Apache gets narrower 90mm and 130mm rubbers. Also, the overall kerb weight is another differentiating factor with the FZ being the lightest at 132kgs while Apache and Gixxer tipping the scales at 143kgs and 140kgs, respectively.
Pricing
Suzuki has priced the BS6 Gixxer at Rs 1.12 lakhs which is a premium of around Rs 12,000 over its BS4 version. Considering it already had a fuel-injected motor, this price hike is quite steep for minor revisions for BS6 compliance. Next in line is the Apache RTR 160 4V which costs Rs 1.04 lakhs while it also comes in a more-affordable rear drum brake variant which costs Rs 1 lakh. Yamaha too offers the FZ V3 in a standard and S trim with a price tag of Rs 99,000 and Rs 1.01 lakhs, respectively.
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
