What to know
- The Dominar 250, on the other hand, features a more rugged and muscular design, with a muscular fuel tank and upright riding position.
- The Gixxer SF 250 features a 300mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, while the Dominar 250 boasts a larger 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc.
- The Dominar 250, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including a larger digital-analog instrument cluster, a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts, and a USB charging port for added convenience.
In the realm of quarter-liter motorcycles, two formidable contenders have emerged: the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Bajaj Dominar 250. Both machines offer a balance of performance, style, and affordability, making them popular choices among riders. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 against the Dominar 250 to determine which one reigns supreme.
Design and Aesthetics
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 boasts a sleek and sporty design, inspired by its MotoGP sibling, the GSX-R series. Its sharp lines and aerodynamic fairing give it a racy and aggressive appearance. The Dominar 250, on the other hand, features a more rugged and muscular design, with a muscular fuel tank and upright riding position. Its towering stance and dual-purpose tires hint at its adventure-touring capabilities.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Gixxer SF 250 packs a 249cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that produces 26.5 horsepower and 22.6 Nm of torque. Its smooth power delivery and linear acceleration make it a joy to ride in urban environments. The Dominar 250, meanwhile, is powered by a 248.76cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that churns out 27 horsepower and 23.5 Nm of torque. With its slightly higher power output and longer stroke, the Dominar 250 offers better low-end grunt and highway cruising capabilities.
Handling and Suspension
The Gixxer SF 250’s lightweight chassis and agile handling make it a nimble and responsive machine. Its telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension provide a balanced and comfortable ride. The Dominar 250, with its longer wheelbase and more upright geometry, offers a more stable and composed ride, especially at higher speeds. Its upside-down front forks and monoshock rear suspension with adjustable preload enhance its handling and comfort levels.
Braking and Safety
Both the Gixxer SF 250 and the Dominar 250 come equipped with disc brakes at both ends. The Gixxer SF 250 features a 300mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, while the Dominar 250 boasts a larger 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc. The Dominar 250 also offers the option of dual-channel ABS, which provides enhanced braking control and safety.
Features and Technology
The Gixxer SF 250 comes with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, gear position, and fuel level. It also features an LED headlamp and taillight for improved visibility. The Dominar 250, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including a larger digital-analog instrument cluster, a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts, and a USB charging port for added convenience.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Gixxer SF 250 is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, delivering an average of 40-45 km/l in real-world conditions. The Dominar 250, with its larger engine and higher power output, has a slightly lower fuel efficiency, averaging around 35-40 km/l. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 15 liters, providing a decent range for commuting and weekend rides.
Pricing and Availability
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is priced slightly lower than the Dominar 250, with a starting price of around Rs. 1.75 lakhs (ex-showroom). The Dominar 250 starts at around Rs. 1.85 lakhs (ex-showroom). Both motorcycles are widely available at dealerships across India.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Bajaj Dominar 250 are both excellent quarter-liter motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize sharp handling, sporty aesthetics, and fuel efficiency, the Gixxer SF 250 is the ideal choice. However, if you’re looking for a more versatile machine with better low-end power, enhanced features, and improved safety, the Dominar 250 is the superior option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and riding style.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which motorcycle has better acceleration, the Gixxer SF 250 or the Dominar 250?
A: The Dominar 250 has a slight edge in acceleration due to its higher power output and longer stroke.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Dominar 250’s upright riding position and adjustable rear suspension make it more comfortable for extended journeys.
Q: Which motorcycle offers more features and technology?
A: The Dominar 250 offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including a larger instrument cluster, slipper clutch, and USB charging port.
Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Gixxer SF 250 has better fuel efficiency, delivering around 40-45 km/l compared to the Dominar 250’s 35-40 km/l.
Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Gixxer SF 250 is priced slightly lower than the Dominar 250, starting at around Rs. 1.75 lakhs (ex-showroom).
