Suzuki Gixxer

Launched in 2014, the Suzuki Gixxer comes across as one of the most attractive looking bikes in the 160cc segment. The design looks striking thanks to the smart triangular headlight set within a bikini fairing, the stylishly sculpted 12-litre fuel tank with good knee recess that offers good thigh support. The way the rear design is executed with the body coloured grab rails almost merging into the panels that pack in a small triangular shaped LED taillight further adds to its looks. The carved out seats also blend well with the overall design.

The Suzuki Gixxer is powered by a 154.9cc, single-cylinder air-cooled and carburetted engine that comes mated to a five-speed gearbox. The Gixxer produces 14.8PS of peak power at 8,000rpm and 14Nm of torque at 6,000rpm. Suspension duties are managed by telescopic front forks and a hydraulic monoshock absorber at the rear. Braking is managed by a disc brake up at the front and the rear. It also proves to be quite light, tipping the scale at 135kg (kerb)

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: While the older Apache RTR 160 seemed pretty outdated in comparison with the Gixxer, TVS’ new Apache RTR 160 4V should be able to give the Suzuki offering the rain for its money. Now available in both EFI and Carburettor variant, the Apache RTR 160 4V is easily the most powerful bike in its segment. Coupled with some convenient features seen on its older sibling, the Apache RTR 160 4V now certainly makes a good case for itself.

Yamaha FZ V2.0: The V2.0 delivers in style, build quality, refinement and handling. It is also the only bike in the segment to get fuel injection, but that has also upped its price out of this league. It is a strong performer and a proper upgrade over the previous version.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160: The Pulsar NS 160 ticks all the right boxes when it comes to style, performance, ride and handling, save for refinement. The new NS 160 is a worthy contender and makes a strong case for itself in this highly competitive 160cc segment.

The Suzuki Gixxer is a worthy street bike with a distinct design and enviable refinement levels. It also undercuts the competition on the price front, which makes it a good value for money proposition. Amongst the models stated above though, it is the recently launched TVS Apache RTR 160 4V that makes a strong case for itself as it is not only equally refined but is addictive with the kind of package it offers in terms of performance and handling. It is also the only motorcycle here with an oil-cooled engine.