Aside from the different method of fuelling, very little is different between the two. The Intruder FI is powered by a Gixxer-borrowed 154.9cc air-cooled engine but with minor tweaks. The engine on this bike also makes 14.8hp and 14Nm and is mated to a precise and refined gearbox. The FI weighs 1kg over the carburetted version of the bike. But, since there is a noticeable change in throttle response, this weight gain is negligible.
The bike feels very similar to its carburetted sibling and the engine feels refined with a strong mid-range, but a weak top-end. In our test, the FI model returned a decent 47.17kpl on the highway and 43.13kpl in the city. There shouldn’t be too much difference in the figures of this bike and its sibling.
This is a great looking bike that’s stylish to look at. It comes with a unique headlight, long fuel tank, curvy bodywork, wide tail and a gigantic exhaust, which are features you don’t see on bikes in this price bracket. The only visual difference from the carburetted version is a fuel-injection decal near the headlight cowl.
The Intruder FI offers a relaxed, feet-front riding position that is comfortable even for taller riders. The low 740mm seat height allows this bike to be piloted by riders of all sizes. The frame (albeit a modified version), tyres and brakes are shared with the Gixxer, so it has a similar sporty nature. The Intruder changes direction well and feels nice and stable. This bike is quite comfortable but be careful when you’re riding over large speed breakers or potholes - while the bike doesn’t lose composure, you can feel the sharp bump since the rear shock offers less travel than the Gixxer, plus the lower riding position.
Should I buy one?
This version is priced at Rs 1.07 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which is Rs 7,000 more than the carburetted variant. The bike offers slightly better throttle response and you have the convenience of not having a choke, but we would suggest saving the money and just buying the carburetted bike, since the overall experience is largely similar.
