The 2015 Suzuki Burgman 200 ABS is the ultimate tweener. Not only does it stand halfway between small and large (maxi) scooters, but within the middleweight segment it also slots between 150cc and 300cc models. That makes it a versatile alternative for metropolitan riders: powerful and accommodating enough to venture well beyond city limits, yet not too big and heavy for smaller folks to handle.

Just one year removed from a complete overhaul, the sleek and classy-looking Suzuki Burgman 200 ABS returns unchanged for 2015 except for a new colour scheme (Black/Matte Silver instead of Black/White).

Photo: Suzuki

For commuting and light touring
The Burgman is powered by a liquid-cooled, 200cc, single-cylinder engine tuned for low- and mid-range power. It generates 18.1 hp at 8,000 rpm and 12.5 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm, enough to keep up with traffic on the highway. Electronic fuel injection ensures smooth power delivery, while the CVT’s fixed-spring design aims to reduce vibration. You can keep an eye on your average fuel consumption, and there's even an Eco Drive indicator.

The exceptionally low seat height (735mm) and specially designed cutaway floorboards of the 2015 Suzuki Burgman 200 ABS allow most riders to easily put both feet on the ground at idle, which helps steady this 163kg machine. Incidentally, the wheels measure 13” up front and 12” in the rear.

The seat itself is double-stitched and generously padded, yet firm enough to be comfortable to ride all day. Underneath is an illuminated 41L storage compartment that can hold two full-face helmets and a bit more cargo, Suzuki claims. For extra convenience, you'll find two front storage compartments totalling 5.5L (one is lockable with the ignition key, the other is push-open for easy access), plus a 12V DC outlet below the instrument panel for powering a GPS or charging your mobile device.

While some scooters suffer from turbulence at high speeds, the 2015 Suzuki Burgman 200 ABS features an ergonomic, albeit non-adjustable, windscreen that is said to provide excellent wind protection. As for ride quality, you will certainly appreciate the 33mm telescopic front fork and dual rear shocks with spring preload adjustment.

Bottom line
At $4,999, the smooth, stylish, and fast 2015 Suzuki Burgman 200 ABS seems fairly expensive compared to 150cc rivals like the Honda PCX150 and Piaggio Fly 150, but it also offers more power, more storage room, and ABS. On the other hand, it's cheaper and nearly as well-equipped as 300cc scooters like the Honda Forza and KYMCO Downtown 300i.