Re: Which bike to buy.

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Re: Which bike to buy.

I also would like to know id DUke 200 is coming with ABS. There is no news regarding this except that there are few cosmetic changes like change of Handle grips etcs...

Re: Which bike to buy.

City riding? Duke is a no no in my opinion. Especially in Bengaluru traffic . Will heat up like hell even in bangalore temperatures. I am just going by stereotypical bangalore peak hours traffic. However, if your route has traffic moving at decent pace, shouldn't be a problem. Actually the D200 would be such a good city bike with its short gearing and 25bhp power, if it weren't for its heating problem (reason why I always say this is bike meant for european weather). Pillion seat is there for the sake of it. Anything more than 15mins, will be uncomfortable.

The Gixxer has had good reviews ever since its release. I have not ridden it, so can't comment much. To me it looks like the most premium air cooled 150cc commuter in India for now. Should do your city stints easily since that is what is built for mainly. As a bonus, you should get better FE figures compared to the Duke. However, make sure you have good Suzuki service centre close to your place. Suzuki is not known for its after sales support.

Verdict: DUKE if traffic is not stop and go type, else Gixxer.

Re: Which bike to buy.

If it is only for commuting to work and you would like to have a zero effort exercise may I suggest a automatic scooter.

In terms of bike Suzuki gixxer is a nice bike and would serve your needs very well. The duke 200/shall give you a bigger grin.

Choose wisely and enjoy your ride

Re: Which bike to buy.

I know u already rejected pulsars, but still I would say that u take a test ride of 200ns.
Its really comfortable , peppy 200cc engine.
Trust me if ur under the impression of earlier pulsars, this one is leagues ahead of anyone of them.
Dunno why you rejected cbr250 , it is a beautiful package as well.

Re: Which bike to buy.

Go for Duke if the budget is not a problem. The crazy acceleration will make a huge grin appear on your face. It will not disappoint you in city or on the highway.

If there is a budget limit, go for Gixxer.

Re: Which bike to buy.

Thanks for the suggestions..

70% of my commute will be on ring road. So heat should not be a problem.
Have to try the Gixxer..


No Scooter for me. Tried it for a month. Pain started all over the body. My opinion [at least for me]Scooter is only for short distance < 10kms

Thought it is bit bulky for city ride. And I'm not a fan of fully faired sport bike.

Re: Which bike to buy.

Girish, if you commute is going to be on the ring road, then D200 is worth a purchase. But we have been hearing news that a newer version, say, improved version with the current problems being addressed is going to be launched. Hey, you know how speculations work here, huh.

If you can check with the showroom guys and go for it. D200 is a good buy. You want a smile , go for D200, you want a huge grin, D390

Re: Which bike to buy.

Maybe I am exaggerating but anyone above 5'8" won't be comfortable on a Duke. I am 6'3" tall and am in love with the KTM motorcycles, but can't really drive one without bending my elbows at 90 degrees! Don't you guys think he should take a long test drive and then decide based on his comfort level? AFAIK dukes are compact motorcycles with narrow handlebars, which makes it unsuitable for tall guys.

BTW I am quite comfy on a gixxer. My cousin has got it and I drive it a lot. It can't be compared to a KTM, but it's refined and economic compared to others. The seats are well cushioned and front brakes work exceptionally well.