The heavily updated 2019 Suzuki Gixxer could get LED headlamp, new digital instrumentation, split seats, Suzuki Easy Start System, mechanical changes to aid handling, etc
Suzuki Motorcycle India Limited (SMIL) is planning to achieve seven lakh unit sales target in the current fiscal at a YoY growth of 40 percent, as over five lakh units were retailed in FY2017-18. The Japanese company is increasing its dealership count and touch points from 1,000 to 1,200 in a bid to reach a milestone of one million sales by 2020.
The global brand is banking heavily on new scooters for its growth in India as Burgman Street 125 was launched last week with a price tag of Rs. 68,000 (ex-showroom). By 2020, Suzuki’s first all-electric scooter is predicted to be rolled out of production as well. However, its strong run in the entry-level sporty motorcycle space will not be undermined.
According to a recent report emerged on the internet, Suzuki is preparing a 250 cc naked street that could be named Gixxer 250, and is more likely to compete against Yamaha FZ25 with a faired version suspected to follow suite. Hot on the heels, Suzuki is also said to be working on a comprehensive update for its highly popular Gixxer 155.
The Gixxer 250 will be joined by the completely overhauled Gixxer 155 as well excitingly. Despite being s success story, a thorough update for the Gixxer has long been anticipated and it’s reportedly well on its way for next year. With new and capable 160 cc motorcycles crowding the segment, the Gixxer has been facing its toughest rivals ever as TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 are right up there.
Suzuki will celebrate Gixxer’s five years of market presence in 2019 with a prominent update. The 2019 Suzuki Gixxer is speculated to receive an overhauled exterior with sharper design cues while maintaining the signature styling. We expect the 250 and 155 cc versions to have their design inspired by their global naked GSX-S cousins with several similarities between them.
The updated entry-level Gixxer could get LED headlamp, new digital instrumentation, split seats, Suzuki Easy Start System, mechanical changes to aid handling, etc. Moreover, emphasis will be put on improving the ride quality without compromising the riding dynamics reportedly. The existing single downtube chassis and brakes are expected to be carried forward as well.
The Suzuki Gixxer is currently powered by a 154.9 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled and carburetted engine that produces 14.8 PS of peak power at 8,000 rpm and 14 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm – mated to a five-speed transmission. Suspension duty is managed by telescopic front forks and a hydraulic monoshock absorber at the rear.
With raising performance demands among customers and considering that Apache RTR 160 makes 16.8 PS and Pulsar NS 160 at 15.5 PS, we can expect more power and torque output with minor engine updates. ABS could be offered as standard, as Suzuki was already said to be working on BSVI updates and to meet upcoming safety regulations. The 2019 Suzuki Gixxer ABS could cost around Rs. 89,000 (ex-showroom) taking into account a minor price increase.
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