At a Glance
- The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Pulsar 250 both employ telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear.
- The Gixxer SF 250 features a 300mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, while the Pulsar 250 has a 280mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc.
- The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 comes equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information, including a gear indicator, a tachometer, and a fuel gauge.
The Indian motorcycle market is brimming with thrilling options for riders seeking power, style, and affordability. Among the most captivating choices are the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Bajaj Pulsar 250. Both these machines promise an exhilarating ride, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into every aspect of these two formidable contenders, providing you with the insights necessary to make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 boasts a sleek and sporty design, reminiscent of its larger siblings. Its sharp lines and aggressive stance exude a sense of speed and agility. The Pulsar 250, on the other hand, features a more muscular and imposing design, with a beefier fuel tank and a muscular exhaust system. Both bikes offer a comfortable riding position, with the Gixxer SF providing a slightly more upright posture suitable for longer rides.
Engine Performance
Under the hood, the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 houses a 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces 26.5 bhp of power and 22.6 Nm of torque. The Bajaj Pulsar 250, in contrast, is powered by a 249cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that generates 24.5 bhp of power and 21.5 Nm of torque. While both engines deliver ample power for city commuting and highway cruising, the Gixxer SF 250 offers a marginally better power-to-weight ratio, resulting in a slightly more spirited acceleration.
Handling and Suspension
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Pulsar 250 both employ telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the Gixxer SF 250 utilizes a slightly longer swingarm, which contributes to improved stability and handling, especially in corners. Both bikes offer a well-balanced ride, but the Gixxer SF 250 feels more planted and predictable at higher speeds.
Braking
Both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Pulsar 250 are equipped with a disc brake setup at both ends. The Gixxer SF 250 features a 300mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, while the Pulsar 250 has a 280mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc. The Gixxer SF 250’s larger front disc provides slightly better stopping power and feedback, but both bikes offer adequate braking performance for urban and highway riding.
Features and Technology
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 comes equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information, including a gear indicator, a tachometer, and a fuel gauge. The Pulsar 250 also features a digital instrument cluster, but it offers fewer features and a less intuitive layout. Both bikes offer LED headlamps and taillamps, providing excellent visibility at night.
Fuel Efficiency and Mileage
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many riders, and both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Pulsar 250 deliver impressive mileage figures. The Gixxer SF 250 is marginally more fuel-efficient, with an ARAI-claimed mileage of 41 kmpl, compared to the Pulsar 250’s 39 kmpl. In real-world riding conditions, both bikes can deliver mileage in the range of 35-40 kmpl, depending on riding style and traffic conditions.
Price and Value for Money
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is priced slightly higher than the Bajaj Pulsar 250, with an ex-showroom price of around 1.75 lakhs, compared to the Pulsar 250’s price of around 1.65 lakhs. However, the Gixxer SF 250 offers a more premium build quality, a more powerful engine, and better handling, making it a compelling choice for riders who prioritize performance and value for money.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and the Bajaj Pulsar 250 are both excellent choices for riders seeking a sporty and capable motorcycle in the 250cc segment. However, based on our comprehensive comparison, the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 emerges as the superior choice. Its more powerful engine, better handling, and premium features make it a more rewarding motorcycle to own and ride. While the Pulsar 250 offers a slightly more affordable price point, the Gixxer SF 250’s superior overall package justifies its slightly higher price tag.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. What is the top speed of the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250?
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 has a top speed of around 145 kmph.
2. What is the fuel tank capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar 250?
The Bajaj Pulsar 250 has a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.
3. Does the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 have ABS?
No, the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 does not come with ABS as standard.
4. Which bike is more suitable for long-distance riding?
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is more suitable for long-distance riding due to its more comfortable riding position and slightly better fuel efficiency.
5. What is the ground clearance of the Pulsar 250?
The Pulsar 250 has a ground clearance of 165mm.
