Suzuki Intruder 150 Test Ride Review

Riding Dynamics – Hang on! Similarities don’t end here. The single downtube frame, suspension setup and braking hardware also comes from the close stablemates. While the Gixxer range offers unparalleled agility and poise, this one falls below our expectations. Increased rake at the front and a stretched swingarm has resulted in a 75 mm increase in wheelbase. While straight-line stability is solid, the handling isn’t as surefooted and confidence inspiring as you’d expect around corners. But then, cruisers aren’t meant for tight corners and it is the ride quality which matters.

Thankfully, the suspension setup is well-tuned and the motorcycle simply glides over road undulations. Front 41 mm forks go well with the powerful stance and the 7-step adjustable monoshock unit comes set on the stiffer side from the factory. Suzuki has provided front and rear disc brakes and single-channel ABS as standard on the motorcycle. While the rear disc brake is on the weaker side, the front disc offers a strong bite and good stopping power. Combined with first-in-segment ABS which prevents the front wheel from locking up, the braking performance is more than satisfactory.

Verdict – With the Intruder 150, Suzuki is entering a segment which has been dominated by the Bajaj Avenger since the last 12 years. While there are mixed reactions for the design, there’s no denying the fact that it will appeal to most of its target audience. Suzuki has rolled out a thoughtful proposition and the added equipment, reliable underpinnings, top-notch quality and charismatic styling give the Intruder 150 a slight edge over the Avenger range. However, its underwhelming performance is a letdown for the asking price. Priced around Rs. 12,000/- over the more powerful Avenger 220, this Jap offering isn’t exactly value for money for what is essentially a Gixxer dressed up in the clothes of a cruiser. Although the overall part quality and niggle-free nature is a plus in this segment, power-packed competitors like the Royal Enfields and the Avenger 220 are more accomplished and better-suited for the job. In addition to that, Suzuki has lavished a large amount of parts from the Gixxer which has taken away the Intruder 150’s distinct identity.

What’s Cool

* Overdone or not, the design is a stand-out on our roads
* Engine has excellent refinement levels and offers good city performance
* Comfortable ergonomics and supportive seats
* Well-tuned suspension setup
* Comes loaded with equipment – ABS, rear disc brake and more

What’s Not So Cool

* Too much part-sharing with the Gixxer results in a design mismatch
* Tyres look skinny from some angles for its power-cruiser attire
* Engine runs out of power early on the highways
* Premium price for an air-cooled and carburetted 155cc motor

Alternatives: Bajaj Avenger 150 Street, Bajaj Avenger 220 Street, Bajaj Avenger 220 Cruise

Suzuki Intruder 150 Specifications

* Engine: 154.9cc, Air-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single-Cylinder
* Power: 14.8 PS @ 8000 RPM
* Torque: 14 Nm @ 6000 RPM
* Transmission: 5-speed Manual
* 0-100 km/hr: 17.42 seconds
* Top Speed: 115 km/hr
* Fuel Consumption: 40-45 km/l
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Frame: Single Downtube
* Suspension: 41 mm Telescopic Forks (Front), 7-Step Adjustable Mono Shock (Rear)
* Tyres: 100/80/17 (Front), 140/60/17 (Rear), MRF
* Brakes: 266 mm Disc (Front), 240 mm Drum (Rear), ABS

Suzuki Intruder 150 Dimensions

* Length x Width x Height: 2130 mm x 805 mm x 1095 mm
* Wheelbase: 1405 mm
* Ground Clearance: 170 mm
* Seat Height: 740 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 11-litres
* Kerb Weight: 148 kgs

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