Suzuki has launched the 2020 edition of the Bandit 150 sporty commuter in Taiwan. In terms of displacement, performance and body style, it is a close competitor of the Yamaha MT 15 which is sold in India. Although Suzuki is unlikely to launch it in India anytime soon, we check out how good the Bandit 150 is on paper.
Design
While the single-piece seat and slightly pulled back handlebar of the Bandit make for a commuter-friendly riding position, the sharp angles of the body panels exude aggression. Starting from the robotic-style headlamp and pointed fuel tank extensions to the sleek tail and edgy graphics, the Bandit 150 looks adequately sporty for a commuter. The black colour version looks particularly dynamic due to red highlights on the body panel and red alloy wheels.
Features
The Bandit 150 gets standard features for this segment with the only stand out element being the central locking system for ignition and fuel tank. Other features include an LED headlamp and tail lamp along with an LED position lamp. There’s also a fully-digital console which shows all the necessary information.
Engine
Engine and performance are the strong points of the Suzuki Bandit 150. It is powered by a 147cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which churns out 19.3bhp and 14Nm of peak torque. These figures are similar to the Yamaha MT 15 and YZF R15 V3’s power output. However, where the Bandit further shines is in the weight department as it tips the scales at an impressive 135kg (kerb).
Cycle parts
The motorcycle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels which are suspended by telescopic forks up front and a monoshock at the rear sourced from Showa. Speed shedding duties are carried out a 290mm petal disc at the front and a 187mm disc at the rear. Strangely, there’s no ABS even as an option.
Pricing
Suzuki has priced the 2020 Bandit 150 at TWD 120,000 (approximately Rs 3.06 lakh). In India, the company sells the 155cc Gixxer and the Gixxer SF which are not as powerful as the Bandit but still deliver decent acceleration and handle extremely well.
