
Before we dig a bit deeper here, you need to know that the Intruder 150 is really a Gixxer in disguise. That means, same chassis, same swingarm and even the same rake angle. It is powered by the same 155cc single-cylinder engine. In short, it’s a cruiser with a streetfighter soul and that is supposed to make things interesting, right? Well, it does and we’re glad!

The Gixxer is known for its outstanding performance and it’s the same with the Intruder. There’s a good amount of refinement and smoothness. It gets a bigger airbox to take care of the extra weight. This motor behaves sane until 3000rpm, to keep things calm for city riding. But post that, with a bit of a grunt and linear power delivery, the bike feels lively and fast. As the revs begin to reach 9000rpm, that’s when the buzz starts to creep in on the handlebar and the footpegs. The five-speed gearbox isn’t the best one in the 150cc segment, but it does the job of keeping things exciting. Even with the extra bike weight, it is possible to ride at 40kmph in fifth gear.

When it comes to handling, the Intruder impressed us in every single aspect. It wants to be taken to the corners every single time and the credit for this goes to the chassis underneath. It holds to the line very well and that’s an uncommon thing amongst cruisers. The suspension setup is on the stiffer side and that might pose a problem for someone with a weak back in every day riding. The single-channel ABS that work on the front wheel, comes as standard and works pretty efficiently. There’s a good amount of feedback and bite from the front brake at low speeds, but not very effective during spirited riding.