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Thicker tyres make the Gixxer more stable around the corners
Riding Dynamics – When you ride a performance-oriented 160cc motorcycle in the city, the mindset is to look out for a bike that is quick, comfortable and yet easy to handle in traffic. Both these bikes offer optimum riding comfort while having spot-on dynamics. The Gixxer has a more comfortable ride and handles corners really well. It stays planted all the time. The Apache, however, feels more agile and is more nimble to take on traffic and it is very easy to flick it around the corners. The Gixxer wins here with comfort and stability; while the Apache is more eager and stays committed to the line.
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Apache holds the line really well, thanks to the SyncroStiff chassis
The Apache feels sportier to ride even though it has a softer suspension
Apache 160 runs on thinner tyres, same as on the Apache 200. While the Gixxer has had the 140 section rear tyre from the very beginning and it rules in the matter of grip. The feedback from the suspension and the tyres are confidence inspiring on the Gixxer. Although the Apache is slightly stiffly sprung, it aids to its nimble and agile nature. The braking feedback on the Gixxer is better while the Apache stops quicker. The rear disc on the Apache feels wooden at times while the same on the Gixxer handles more than 30% of the braking. Although the Gixxer can’t match the feedback from the front petal discs of the Apache 160, it just stops!
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At a mere difference of price, chosing one is the real challenge
Verdict – The Suzuki Gixxer has been in the market for quite some time and is ruling the performance-commuter segment. However, the limited service network as compared to the other Japanese brands is the reason for lower sale numbers. And this time TVS has got it right where it needed to be – a bike ready to take on the leadership in the 160cc category. The Apache as a package is much fresher and offers a lot at the same price, the Gixxer however, is slightly more practical for the commuter part. If taken into complete perspective there is a very thin line between these two bikes, while these motorcycles look and come from places poles apart. For the fun and looks, the Apache is the one to go for while for the mature and practical purpose, the Gixxer works it’s way through.
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Oh man! These 160s are really fun to ride
Testers’ Note:
“The Suzuki Gixxer even after being an oldie in this comparison, ticks the right boxes and makes a great product for the commuter market. The Apache portrays the sporty nature very well but doesn’t justify complete comfort for a commuter. The Japanese are still my choice, however, the Apache is a very solid product considering the fact it’s the fastest and most powerful in the segment.” – Faisal Khan, Editor, MotorBeam.
“I would pick the Apache over the Gixxer because of the extra fun factor it offers. More nimble and agile nature is my way to go and the Apache does it just right. However the current market is moving a notch above, there are still people looking out for such bikes and Gixxer is slightly old now. A minor update of ABS for the Gixxer which is on its way is sure to make it more desirable.” – Dhanil Vira, 2-Wheeler Road Tester, MotorBeam.
