I DECIDED TO WRITE THIS REVIEW AFTER MY FIRST SERVICE OF THE BIKE(SUZUKI GS 150 R) WAS DONE. I HAVE DRIVEN THIS MONSTER FOR 470 KMS BEFORE THE FIRST SERVICE. I HAVE DEVIDED MY REVIEW IN STAGES:
THE BRAND NEW RIDE
Purchased on Nov 17 2009 from PETAL SUZUKI, Drive-In Road, Ahmedabad. I faced no problems as far as taking the delivery of my bike was concerned. The papers were ready, the customer support associate Mr.Ashok was aware about the mode of payment etc. and all the modalities were done with in 20 mins. Of course, the max. time they spent was counting the currency notes:). Prior to making the payment I was given an opportunity to see and check my bike to satisfy myself. The dealer did a complimentary Teflon Coating for me, I am not sure whether it was the original 3M teflon or not. but no doubt the bike was shining and shimmering.
RIDE QUALITY - 4 on 5
ACCELERATION - 3.5 on 5
SPEED - 5 on 5
The ride was reasonably smooth, the bike’s Manual is really very descriptive, unlike that of Bajaj or Honda( I have not seen Hero Honda, Yamha or TVS) may be one thing that Suzuki should include is the Hindi version - it may be helpful for some. I was instructed not to exceed 5000 RPM till the bike has clocked 500 Kms. Hmmmm! Trust me with the pick-up GS150R’s SOHC Motor Generates it is difficult to resist speeding. This little beast just ZOOMs. almost effortlessly. On one occasion while I was driving on a highway, I decided to give it a try and the bike reached 105 within no time. I think there is still some scope for me to accelerate and take it beyond that. I had some problems while engaging 2nd gear while at low speeds(20 - 30Kmph). I was told the same will be taken care of during the 1st service. They have promised to have fixed it - I too feel the same.
The seat is very well designed, broad and long(probably the broadest and longest in this segment, may be Avenger too would miss out on the comfort of this bike).
The bike is SUPER STEADY. Rock solid even when you are zooming past a fast moving multi-axel vehicle. Braking seems fine, due to its weight you may initially feel to miss the spot but it is indeed dependable. This bike should come with dual disk brakes looking at the additional weight it bears. A split handle bar could have also added that extra comfort and ergonomic posture.
DIGITAL CONSOLE / BUILD QUALITY / PAINT FINISH
Workman ship is excellend - well consealed, high visibility even during sunshine(unlike Bajaj). The design of the digits in the tacho could have been improved, the needle reminds you of an old pressure gauge:) But very functional and clear. One drawback, there is no indication for headlamp / pilot lamps on. Adding an indicator in the console with an LED or a sign would have definitely helped. riders like me(who want everything to be indicated, always).
The bike has excellent plastic and fiberglass work and paint quality. The stickers needed a better lacquer job - looks that they are easy to peel off. The Suzuki S emblem adds to the macho looks. Headlights are fine, nothing extra ordinary about it, I thought Bajaj Pulsar 150 UG3 had a better vision area. It suffices illumination requirements in pitch darkness. I personally love the different shade of AMBER COLOR side flashers.
FINALLY, IF YOU WANNA NEW BIKE AND ARE NOT WORRIED ABOUT THE RESALE VALUE GO FOR THIS BIKE. SPECIALLY WHEN YOUR WIFE AND SON WOULD ALSO LIKE TO ACCOMPANY YOU ON THAT RIDE. . NO OTHER BIKE CAN DO IT FOR YOU. YOU MAY GET MORE SPEED, BETTER LOOKS. BUT IN THAT PRICE RANGE THERE IS NO BIKE TO BEAT IT.
My first service experience with Petal Suzuki was also good. Make sure to pre-book your service if you wanna get it done on a Sunday.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS / QUERIES PLEASE EMAIL ME ON wizard.hims@gmail.com