After launching the all-new Gixxer SF 250, it’s time for Suzuki India to get a naked sibling out as well. Suzuki has confirmed that it’s working on the Gixxer 250 and it would be launched in the country within the next few months.
This is something we saw coming. It’s nothing new and manufacturers do this all the time – having a faired and naked version of the same model. The upcoming naked Gixxer will share a lot of parts with the Gixxer SF 250, like the dual barrel exhaust, instrument cluster, chassis, suspension setup, brakes with ABS, etc.
Although there’s no confirmation regarding the styling of the naked bike, it’s being suspected that Suzuki is planning to draw inspiration from the GSX-S125 that’s being sold in international markets. Perhaps, it will borrow the headlight, fuel tank, and the front fender along with a few other elements.
Powering the Gixxer 250 will be the same but new 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that we’ve seen in the latest Gixxer SF 250. It produces 26.5hp and 22.6Nm and comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Chances are that Suzuki might alter the power and torque delivery on the naked motorcycle to suit its character. Also, since it won’t have the fairing and all, therefore, it will weigh less which will improve its handling and performance.
Suzuki has not released any official information regarding the upcoming Gixxer 250 but it’s being anticipated that it would fall in the price range of Rs 1.55-1.60 lakh and would have the Yamaha FZ-25 as its main rival. However, there are other motorcycles with a similar price tag, like the Duke 200, Bajaj Dominar 400, which would make the survival of the new Gixxer 250 in the market that bit more difficult.
(All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi)
