Gixxer SF is one of the best bikes I have come across
Handling — Handling of the bike is top notch, you will never feel tired riding in city traffic
Power — On paper, the bike might give an impression that it is low on power — 15 BHP — when compared to Pulsar AS200, RS200, Honda CBR, Yamaha R15 etc., but once you twist the throttle and the engine starts grunting, you will realize that Gixxer SF is pretty powerful for a 155 cc bike and is probably, one of the best bikes in the 150 cc segment, in terms of power.
Comfort — Gixxer SF does not vibrate even at top speeds. I rode it at 125 kmph and did not feel any vibration! That speaks of the volume of comfort the bike offers. You can ride it at a stretch. However, the pillion seat is really uncomfortable and could give you a sore butt.
Mileage — Taking into consideration the fact that Gixxer SF is a performance bike in its segment and an excellent sports-tourer, it delivers an impressive mileage of 40–50 kmph within city and 50–60 on highways. Definitely not a bad figure to complement the bike’s 12 litre fuel tank. And yes, riding between 50–60 kmph and in fifth gear within the city will always deliver a satisfactory mileage.
Maintenance — Gixxer SF kills the myth that expensive bikes are difficult to maintain. I clean and lubricate the chain drive once a month from a Suzuki service centre that costs me Rs.120.00 — an easy on pocket amount. My suggestion is to go for regular chain drive cleaning and lubrication, adjust RPM idling periodically, maintain the recommended tyre pressure and the bike will behave exactly the way you would want.
My bike has gone through its scheduled second servicing and is getting better with every single day in terms of smoothness.
Gixxer SF is a rev-happy machine and the bike likes to be revved hard. However, I won’t recommend anyone to do it so heavy city traffic.
Things I don’t like in Gixxer SF — headlight and brakes. The headlight, in low as well as high beam, is below average for night riding in poorly-lit city streets. And night-riding on highway is something I will never recommend with the stock headlight.
The front disc brake is progressive and is very unlikely to make you lose control even during panic or sudden braking. The rear brake needs some adjustments by the mechanic. A rear-disc brake would have been highly appreciated.
I won’t write much about the looks as everyone accepts and acknowledges that it is one of the most attractive bikes(especially the Blue MotoGP edition) out there.
Lastly, the bike does not need clip-on handlebar(like many wishes for) as it would defeat its touring capabilities. You definitely don’t want to sleep with a sore back, neck or shoulder after a day-long ride.
Gixxer SF has all in it to be a life-long, uncomplaining, low-maintenance companion. Just take proper care of it and the dividends would be highly rewarding.