Suzuki Motorcycles India launched the Gixxer SF back in 2014. The styling was inspired by the big daddy- the GSX-R1000. However, it shared its components with its naked sibling, the Gixxer, which is a great handler. The sports commuter had a regular handlebar instead of clip-ons, neutrally positioned footpegs and slick engine that made this bike a crowd favourite.
Define better than the previous avatar in my opinion. The refreshed fascia with the all-new LED headlamp gives the bike a mean look. No more does the bike look like a sports commuter, especially with its clip-on bars and the new split seat. The fairing to has been redesigned and the muscular tank is great to look your knees on. I wish they had done away with the chrome-finished exhaust and also, the windshield is way too small. With the new seat, the seat height too has gone up from 780mm to 795mm. All the redesigning has got the weight of the bike up by 6kg at 146kg.
The new Gixxer SF continues to be powered by the same 155cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, single cylinder mill. The Gixxer SF develops 14bhp at 8000rpm and 14Nm at 6000rpm. Suzuki has updated the suspension of the new Gixxer SF to be a bit stiffer, adding sportiness to the ride.
Once you swing your leg over, you’ll realise that you sit a bit taller and the puny windshield only adds up to this feel. Start off and the Gixxer SF doesn’t feel like a sports commuter, primarily due to the handlebar and the updated seat.
On the go, the Gixxer felt great. The engine is rev happy and effortlessly went all the way up to 124kmph (Speedo indicated). The weight of 146kg, couple with the updated stiffer suspension inspired confidence in corners. However, the footpegs are in neutral territory, which resulted in scraped feelers at almost every corner at the BIC.
The Gixxer SF was a hoot around the track and could effortlessly switch directions. However, the puny windshield doesn’t offer much protection from the wind last unless you are crouched down. There’s a smoked visor on offer, as an accessory, however, a tall visor instead would have been a better idea. Another gripe I had with the bike was the intrusive ABS. The single-channel ABS would kick in sooner that I would have liked.
The updated Gixxer SF is definitely sportier than the predecessor but the company has not compromised on everyday usability. With a price tag of Rs 1.09 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it still remains a great proposition for someone who wants a bike for their everyday commute as well as for some zealous weekend rides.