Small on power, big on show

DESIGN

The Burgman 200 from Suzuki mirrors the more powerful maxi-scooters but hides a small 200cc powerplant.

Giving it a large presence are the wide and tall windscreen, large seats and curved bodywork that hint at the brand's obsession with sailing through the wind.

But the pseudo wood panels on the inside of the black plastic cockpit take a little getting used to.

ERGONOMICS

You'll feel the cockpit's spaciousness.

Resting your feet closer to the scooter's centreline on non-slip floorboards is a must for precise city riding or cornering. When the roads open up, sloped floorboards take some strain off your feet.

Due to its large design, you can't help but feel cocooned when riding the Burgman.

In stalled traffic, it may take some skills to get the rather long scooter out of tight situations.

HANDLING

I was not expecting much from a twist-and-go scooter that makes an estimated 18hp.

Experience tells me the Burgman's big shell will only slow it down when you wring the throttle.

But experience also tells me not to judge a book by its cover.

I quickly realised that the Burgman makes usable power in the low and mid portions of the rev range, giving the scooter bite in city traffic where speeds are lower.

But the Burgman moves off only when the rev needle sweeps 4,000rpm.

While the windscreen offers protection in most situations, taller riders will find their helmets blasted by the wind as the pace quickens.

POWER

Engine-wise, the Burgman may be small but it is capable of higher speeds and some abuse.

On a private road, the Burgman was tested at a speed of 110kmh with pillion and rider tipping the scales at a combined weight of 160kg - about the weight of the scooter when fully fuelled. When riding solo, cornering is sublime, especially if you keep a constant throttle hand.

Its decent manoeuvrability is partly due to the 10.5 litre fuel tank being placed between the rider's feet, resulting in a low centre of gravity.

Thankfully, the belt-driven Burgman sips petrol and can achieve an average of 33km on a litre of petrol.

One "performance" criterion often overlooked is the Burgman's generous stash space - you can keep two helmets and maybe even a slim bag under the seat.

There is also a lockable glove compartment and two smaller ones flanking the dashboard.

Add a top box, and you're ready to go on a real adventure.

TECHNOLOGY

It is a bonus that the Burgman is equipped with anti-lock brakes.

The clocks on the dashboard feature the usual array of gauges with an added "eco drive" button that lights up when you maintain a light throttle hand.

A power outlet on the bike allows you to charge your mobile device while on the move.

VERDICT

If you want a big presence in a scooter and an even bigger stash space to haul your barang-barang, then the Burgman 200 tops the list.

Easy on fuel bill, the Burgman is an everyday scooter that fits most lifestyles and skill levels.

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FAST FACTS

Make & model: Suzuki Burgman 200


Capacity: 200cc

Transmission: Automatic


Engine: Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder


Horsepower: About 18hp

Price: $6,900


For more information, call Guan Hoe at 6299-7939