Scooter Review TGB Bullet 150 This time we spend a little more time on TGB's new 150 cc Bullet. And we sure are all the better for it.
Allen Drysdale
Introduction
A few months back we had our brief stint on the TGB Bullet 150 and came away pleased with the obvious upgrades from the 125 model. Will a longer stint in the saddle change our minds or just confirm our initial thoughts. We find out....
Features
The Bullet has never been a scooter that has left its sporting intentions at the door. Racy sticker kits and bright stand-out colours ensuring you're not just another scooter in the everyday commuter race.
Small changes in styling have taken the new Bullet 150 up a class level, with a new front headlight giving the sportser a sophisticated stance. The rear hasn't been forgotten with its own circular enhancement. Both these changes differentiate the 150 from the lower capacity 125 cc model. For me, it sure is a welcome improvement that's been long overdue and it's pleasing to see TGB making advancements in style. The gold plated forks with matching brake calliper just reaffirming the fact that TGB want the Bullet 150 to be different.
Seating position and chassis remain very much as per the 125, a short reach to the bars and a nice high riding position putting you in the box seat. The seat on the bullet is actually well padded and comfortable, no trouble at all over long periods.
In the 150 guise, the Bullet also receives a new dash with various trip functions, clock and a larger "Cant Miss" centralised tacho. Again it's a big step forward visually, suiting the extra performance of the 150 cc powerplant. The 150 engine gets an oil cooler to help with the extra power gains, the Bullet now outputs a competitive 7.5 Kw, but the real benefits come from the increase in torque. Having an oil cooler will mean power output will remain steady throughout various external temperature ranges.
Some nice premium touches like twin disc brakes and braided lines. Alloy wheels are shod with Maxxis 13 inch sports rubber. The bullet has plenty of storage under the seat and here you will find a 12 volt charger as well. A full face will fit without too much effort. And don't forget you also have a bag hook if required. The floor isn't fully flat but the space is still very usable.
Pillion accommodation isn't a waste either with flip out footpegs catering for a fairly comfortable riding position. The rear wing doubles as a grab handle if required.The rear shock is a single adjustable unit. A centre and side stand come as standard. The fuel tank holds an adequate 6.8 Litres of fuel. The weight remains unchanged at just 114 Kg.
On the Road
On the road the 150 cc Bullet is a different story. And at this point you need to stop making comparisons to its 125 cc sibling, the 150 is a different model in its very own right.
Most of that is due to the engine. The oil cooled unit being far superior to that of the 125. The Bullet 150 now gets to take full advantage of what is its best attribute, handling. The motor will roll on and off the throttle quite nicely and nowhere do you need to give the Bullet a full twist to the stop. Actually I found the best way to ride the Bullet 150 was just by using the torque of the engine, nicely rolling on and off the power in a relaxed manner. The 150 cc powerplant has made the Bullet a far better everyday proposition. And motorways need not be avoided as the Bullet will sit close to the magic ton without fuss.
Short chassis, tallish stance, good ground clearance, 13 inch rubber and a front and rear suspension system that works. You can really push the Bullet 150, your reward is a huge grin that will remain long after you turn off the ignition. All the pieces of the puzzle come together, light weight, good performance and a great set of dynamics.
Brakes are, and always have been, one of the highlights. Good feel with plenty of power to pull up, regardless of speed.
Conclusion
The Bullet 150 is not just a generation leap forward from the 125 or what some may regard as a restyle. The Bullet 150 is a different model outright.
The introduction of the 150 cc oil cooled engine has allowed the engineers to take full advantage of the Bullets sporting attributes.
Whilst the design team has taken the time to freshen up the Bullet, and give the whole package the sense of sophistication it deserves.
At $3290 +ORC TGB have packed a fair bit into the Bullet 150, so much so that it represents fantastic value for money. The additional offer at the moment of an extra warranty period covering 5 years, makes an even better argument for your dollar.
If you're after a focused sports scooter and a daily commuter rolled into one, then you don't have to look too far. The TGB Bullet 150 is worth spending some time getting to know. We certainly did, and we're still impressed by the overall package, quality and value. If you like your scooters sporty, then put this one on the list.
published 11/10/2010 |