You read it first on MotorBeam. Following Yamaha’s footsteps, it is now Suzuki that is planning to replicate the Fazer’s success story for its flagship Gixxer 155cc motorcycle that is scheduled to be launched on 10th September. The two-wheeler manufacturer is working on a semi-faired version of the Gixxer that will be competing against the Yamaha Fazer in the segment. While a name has not been christened for the bike yet, a semi-fairing will be mounted on the existing body of the Gixxer without any changes to the chassis or mechanicals of the motorcycle.
The Fazer has not seen much competition in the premium end of the 150cc segment. Launched in 2009, the muscular looks coupled with decent performance and Yamaha’s riding dynamics was a killer combination most riders were looking for in the affordable 150cc segment. The Fazer also turned out to be the best alternative to the FZ for those who wanted touring capabilities and a comfortable riding position on their bike. With the FZ updated earlier this year, the Fazer update is due for launch and was spotted recently with styling changes and updated FI equipped engine.
Much like the Fazer sharing its properties with the FZ, the semi-faired Gixxer will draw power from the same 154.9cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, 2-valve engine producing 14.8 PS of power at 8000 RPM and 14 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM, paired to a 5-speed gearbox. The engine also gets Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) technology for improved fuel efficiency and performance. The bike gets telescopic front forks while the rear sports a monoshock suspension setup. The Gixxer rides on a 100/80/17 front tyre and a meatier 140/60/17 rear tyre, with stopping power coming from a front disc brake and a drum brake at the rear.
While the naked Gixxer weighs at just 135 kgs, the new half-faired version is expected to be marginally heavier, but will not compromise on performance. Do not expect much design changes to the side and rear , much like the Fazer. In terms of pricing, the Gixxer semi-faired model will be a tad bit expensive and could be priced around Rs. 93,000/- (on-road, Mumbai) when launched. We expect a concrete word on launch to come from Suzuki after the naked version has been established in the market. The semi-faired Gixxer will see a launch in the second half of 2015.
