2009 Suzuki GS 150R review, test drive

Good looks come easy to the GS 150R, which looks good both from front and rear, the smooth, conservative lines and GSX R lineage easily doing their bit. Like most new Indian models, the bike conceals elegant, flowing five-spoke alloy wheels, and the handlebar and engine clad in a mean shade of black. Rubber boots protect the front fork tubes from harsh Indian road conditions. Biking enthusiasts will spot Suzuki DNA in the GSR’s distinctive and sporty headlight cluster where twin city lights sit besides a bright halogen bulb-equipped main headlight. The GSR has clearly legible amber backlit instruments that are rather intelligent, with a handsome rpm counter set at left and the rest of the bay filled by a digital speedometer plus the usual icons. A helpful gear indicator is inset in the tachometer and displays the gear the bike is in at all times. This bike includes twin-trip meters, a clock, fuel gauge as well as an economy and power mode indicator. You might mistake a beacon just below the rpm counter for redline warning, but that can be set to help rider’s shift gears for optimal fuel economy. Users can adjust this light to stay off, or light up at 4500rpm to ride in the interests of economy, and also to a power mode whereby it flashes from 8000rpm onwards. The mode can be switched by holding down the select button on the instrument bay and then using an adjust button just next to it.

The new Suzuki comes with fine quality grips, dogleg levers and comprehensive switchgear that works well and includes engine cut-off on the right. Its rear view mirrors work well even at speed. The GS 150R’s humpbacked, creased fuel tank is delightful to look at, as well as feels really comfortable while riding. Chunky, with perfect knee recesses, it comes with a beautiful flush fuel filler. The seat flows backwards into a silvered alloy grab handle. The bike uses alloy sub-frame sections to mount the rear footrests.

The negative news is the GS 150R’s side profile which shows a clearly discernable Pulsar resemblance. We quite liked the curvaceous, flattened tail fairing. The tail comes with integrated indicators and a horizontally split brake lamp, while just below sits a bulky rear mudguard that should provide good protection in the rains.

As expected from Suzuki, the GS is a well engineered motorcycle, with bright paint lustre, good fit and finish, strong build quality and top- drawer rubber and plastic parts.