Suzuki Burgman 125: A Long-Term Review after 25,000 kms

 

After two years and 25,000 km of riding, I have gathered an understanding of the Suzuki Burgman 125. This review will break down the pros and cons of this maxi scooter, followed by my final thoughts on its overall performance and who it's best suited for.

Pros:

1. Reliable Brand & Service: 

Suzuki is a trusted name, and owning this scooter is backed by responsive customer service. Any issues, such as the pass light integration or starter motor problems, were addressed without much hassle, often covered under warranty.

2. Sweet and Powerful Engine:

The engine is well-suited for a maxi-scooter. While it does not have the punch of its competitors like the TVS NTorq, but it still manages to clock speeds up to 109 km/h and can comfortably cruise at 80 km/h. There is a subtle grunt to the engine, which adds character without being too loud or disturbing.

3. Good Fit and Finish:

The overall build of the Burgman 125 is commendable. Even after extensive use, it has not developed the annoying squeaky or rattling sounds that many scooters tend to have over time. It feels solid and intact.

4. Comfortable Seat and Riding Position: 

The wide, long seat provides enough space for two, and even three passengers (though not recommended). It is designed for comfort, making long rides pleasant for both rider and pillion. The riding position is upright and relaxed, ideal for extended use without fatigue.

5. Balanced Suspension Setup:

The suspension leans more towards the stiff side, offering stability at higher speeds but compromising a bit when hitting potholes. Still, it is well-balanced for daily commutes and occasional highway rides.

6. Decent Braking with CBS:

Although the Burgman does not come with a disc brake or ABS, the CBS (Combined Braking System) works well enough at lower to medium speeds, keeping the scooter in control during city commutes.

7. Fuel Efficiency: 

Fuel efficiency is one of its strong points. With careful riding, you can expect anywhere between 55 - 58km/l, making it economical, especially with rising fuel costs.

8. Ground clearance:

Despite having a Centre stand, ground clearance has never been an issue with the Burgman 125. It handles speed bumps and uneven roads without scraping the bottom, even when fully loaded. Overloading might be an exception, but for normal use, the ground clearance is more than sufficient.

9. Visual Appeal:

The Suzuki Burgman stands out on the road. It looks big, bulky, and commanding, especially in the white color variant. For those who like scooters with presence, this one delivers.

Cons:

1. High Beam Pass Light Issue:

The pass light, integrated with the high-beam switch, is a known issue in the Burgman. It used to fail, and while Suzuki replaced it under warranty, it was eventually removed altogether, and now its just a high-beam switch, which is a letdown.

2. Self-Start Problems:

Despite having a one-touch start, the starter motor and self-start switch are not up to expectations. I had to replace both the starter motor and switch once, along with the battery, but occasional starting issues still persist.

3. Silencer Issues:

The silencer guard falling off is another common problem. The guard’s hinge tends to melt, causing it to come off. And this does not cover under warrenty, The guard costs around 400rs, But it happened only once in the span of 2years. Additionally, the silencer pipe frequently faces rusting issues, requiring repeated repainting. This is not covered by warranty and costs around 600rs each time.

4. Poor Turning Radius:

For a maxi scooter can not complain much but the turning radius of the Burgman is less than the other regular scooters in market. In traffic or tight spaces, it becomes cumbersome to maneuver, which can be a major downside for city riders.

5. Undersized Tyres:

The stock tyres are undersized for a scooter of this size, and while there are not many upsize options available in the market, I recommend ditching the MRF stock tyres in favor of Michelin for better grip and performance.

6. Quality of Parts & Instrument Cluster: 

Given its price (₹1,15,000+), the quality of the scooter’s parts and the basic instrument cluster could have been better. While Suzuki addressed this with an upgraded infotainment system in the latest Rally edition, it still feels lacking for earlier models like mine.

7. Vulnerable to Scratches and Chipping: 

The scooter is prone to scratches and chipping, especially since it does not come with a complete crash guard. While third-party accessories are available, they are not of high quality and add unnecessary weight to the scooter.

8. Underseat storage and Charger:

While the underseat storage is spacious enough for a half-face helmet, it cannot accommodate a full-face helmet, which can be inconvenient for riders who prefer more protection. Additionally, the scooter does not come with a USB port as standard, it is offered as an accessory, costing around ₹600. It would have been better if this feature was included at this price point.

(And regarding the light and horn. Both the light and the horn are decent for a scooter. They are not bad, but they do not stand out either.)

Final Word: Who is this Scooter For?

The Suzuki Burgman 125 is a versatile scooter, best suited for youngsters and middle-aged riders who need a reliable and comfortable city commuter with the ability to handle weekend rides. It is not the fastest in its segment, but it offers a great mix of comfort, style, and practicality. 

Overall, the Burgman 125 makes for a well-rounded maxi-scooter, ideal for those who want something bigger than the average scooter but with the ease of daily commuting.

The Cartoon Corner of My Childhood

 

There is something special about the way cartoons shape our childhood. They are not just shows, they were entire worlds of imagination, where logic does not matter, and fun is the only thing that counts. Growing up in the 2000s, I was lucky enough to experience the joy of cartoons in a way that feels almost impossible to replicate today. 

In those days, we did not have a TV at home because my mom prioritized my studies, so the only chance to indulge in cartoons was at my grandparent's house, where a local operator provided regional channels. The highlight was "Chutti TV", a Tamil-language cartoon channel that aired shows like Jackie Chan Adventures, Jee boom bai and He-Man. Every weekend or after school, I would visit, eagerly watching with a plate of Horlicks, relishing the warmth of those afternoons and the comfort of routine. My other grandma's house, visited during festivals, was a treasure trove of channels like "Cartoon Network", "Pogo" and "Nickelodeon." Those rare visits felt like stepping into a new universe, where I could escape into shows like Phineas and Ferb, Ben 10 and Tom and Jerry, making each trip an unforgettable adventure beyond the everyday.

Eventually, a TV made its way into our home, and everything changed. No longer did I have to wait for weekends or festivals to get my cartoon fix. Shows like Beyblade, Pokemon, Power Rangers, Shinchan and Dragon ball z became part of my everyday life. I would rush home from school, knowing exactly when each show aired, planning my evenings around them. Even in the mornings, there was always a small gap between eating breakfast and leaving for school, just enough time to sneak in a few minutes of a cartoon. My mom’s scoldings for wasting time became a familiar background noise, but nothing could take me away from those precious TV moments.

Amidst this excitement, the slow, peaceful evenings and rainy mornings hold a special place in my memory. When the rain poured down, and we could not go out to play with friends, seated up in front of the TV felt like a little slice of heaven. Watching cartoons during those cozy afternoons, with a cup of tea and snacks lovingly prepared by my mom, was the best part of those gloomy days. I would lose myself on screen, blissfully unaware of what was happening around me. It was a slow way of living, where time seemed to stretch, allowing each moment to linger a little longer, filled with the laughter and adventure of my favorite characters.

Looking back, it is hard to explain just how much cartoons meant to us. Sure, they defied logic, characters flying through the air, animals talking, and gravity playing by its own rules, but that did not matter. What mattered was the joy they brought us, the excitement we felt watching those impossible worlds come to life. Cartoons gave us the freedom to believe in the impossible, and that was everything we needed as kids.

Today, those cartoon-filled days seem like a distant dream, but they remain a precious part of my childhood. They were more than just entertainment, they were a part of my early years, a time when life felt simpler, and happiness was found in the most unexpected places. Though cartoons may no longer play a role in my life, they left a lasting impact, shaping my imagination and filling my childhood with unforgettable memories.

Do you have a cartoon that still brings back those childhood memories every time you think about it?

Saddle Stories: From Chennai to Kanyakumari

It was not my first ride but this one felt different, perhaps because I was riding alone or maybe because it was a journey back to my hometown. I set out on August 30, 2023 on the Srinagar-Kanyakumari highway, a long stretch that took me through places like Tindivanam, Trichy, Madurai, Kovilpatti and Tirunelveli. The ride began at 9:30am in the morning and ended by 8:30pm at night, clocking in over 720+ kilometers. I usually take the bus for this route but something about this day made me choose the saddle. Why not?, I thought.

I had initially planned to start around 4am, but rain in Chennai had delayed me. By the time I finally set off at 9.30am, the day had already started to heat up. As always, I started with "Pallimuttai", a small, sweet treat that never fails to remind me of childhood. Made of sugar and cumin, it has a certain freshness that stays with me throughout the ride. It has become a tradition now, something that grounds me before a long stretch.

The Classic 350, which I took out this time instead of my usual Interceptor, performed like a dream on this ride. I cruised at a stable 80 km/h, clocking in over 35 km per liter, far better than the 24-26 km I get on the Interceptor. The seats were incredibly comfortable, more bucket-like than the hard seating I am used to on the Interceptor. It made a huge difference on a long journey like this. One fuel stop in the middle and the Classic just kept going.

But despite the comfort, this ride was anything but easy. A scorching sun and empty highways made it a punishing experience. The straight roads were unrelenting, the wind blast unforgiving. Highway rides can drain you, especially when they are so featureless. Just road after road. No curves, no surprises, nothing to break the monotony. I should have known better than to expect anything else.

Still, I had my music. My intercom blasted classic tunes and for a while I found some escape in the melodies. The songs lifted my spirit, even if only briefly, making the emptiness of the highway seem a little less dull. Singing along was my way of coping, a small rebellion against the relentless sun, the dry wind and the stretch that refused to end.

There was one moment when nature decided to play along. As I was crossing Kovilpatti, the sun was setting. I saw it in the distance, the colors blending into the road ahead. For a second, the sun looked like it was resting right in my headlight, its light merging with the glow of the bike. That was one of the few beautiful moments I captured along the way. It’s these brief encounters with nature that make the ride worth it, even if the rest of the journey was bland.

By the time I arrived, the tiredness was gone, replaced by excitement. The road had taken its toll but reaching the end was worth it. This ride was not about the scenery or the destination, it was about endurance. A quick ride back home, 720+ kilometers covered, just me and the road. Not the most scenic ride but a story nonetheless.

My Horlicks Love Story

 

Some snacks stick with you for life, and for me, that has always been Horlicks. It has been a guilty pleasure since childhood, one that I still indulge in. While eating it recently, I found myself swept back to those early days. The core memory? My mom serving Horlicks on a small plate and me eagerly licking it up, savoring the fragrance and the sweet taste on my tongue. That first lick, even now, feels fresh on my taste buds.

As a kid, though it was not always served to me so neatly. I used to sneak into the kitchen and grab a spoonful of Horlicks when no one was around. Not just at home but even at my grandparent's house, I would quietly raid the kitchen. And even though they eventually caught on, they never complained. I remember getting caught once, with Horlicks all over my face and there was no hiding it. But there was no scolding either, just smiles and knowing looks.

Back in those days, Horlicks came in glass bottles or jars, a classic way to store that delicious powder. Over time, it evolved into plastic packaging and now we can even find it in convenient sachets. It is fascinating to see how the packaging has changed, but one thing remains constant: the taste. That same sweet and comforting flavor brings back memories of my childhood every time I indulge in it.

Now, I do understand that having too much Horlicks in its raw form probably is not the healthiest choice. There are all sorts of reasons why I should not eat it in it's raw form. But let’s be honest, It is just so tasty that it's hard to resist. Some guilty pleasures are worth the indulgence, even if you know better!

Other nutritional drinks like Boost, Bournvita and Complan were always around and sure, I ate them too. But nothing came close to the way Horlicks captured me. I think that love came from my grandparents, who would always give it to me with a smile. Grandparents have a way of spoiling you with love and I guess that is how my little Horlicks obsession began.

Sitting here now, thinking about it, the memories feel warm, like a hug from the past. There is something sweet and innocent about remembering those sneaky spoonfuls or my mom’s playful way of serving it on a plate. It is funny how such simple things stay with you.

Do you have a snack like this, one that takes you back to your childhood with just a taste?

Film Appreciation: Dead Poets Society

 

Dead Poets Society is a film that resonates on many levels, both in its story and the way it is brought to life on screen. Directed by Peter Weir, it follows a group of boys at the rigid and conservative Welton Academy, where the arrival of a new English teacher, John Keating, shakes the established norms. Keating's teaching methods are unconventional, encouraging the students to think for themselves, question authority and above all, seize the day. This film is not just about a school or its students, it is about the struggle between tradition and innovation.

The visual narrative of this film is as compelling as the story itself. The cinematography feels almost like a character, with each shot speaking its own language. The cold, symmetrical shots of the school reflect the rigidity of the institution, while the outdoor scenes, particularly in the cave where the boys revive the Dead Poets Society, feels alive. The contrast between the classroom spaces and the woods mirrors the boy's inner journeys. There is an intentional quietness in these frames, letting the audience feel the weight of expectation and the longing for freedom in every subtle gesture.

The characters are where the film finds its emotional core. Robin Williams, as John Keating, delivers a performance that is both subtle and commanding. He embodies the balance between passion and restraint, teaching the boys more than just poetry, he teaches them how to experience life. His memorable line, “O Captain! My Captain!” becomes a slogan, not just for the students but for everyone watching. The young cast, particularly Ethan Hawke as Todd and Robert Sean Leonard as Neil, bring vulnerability and strength to their roles. Neil’s tragic arc serves as the film’s emotional swivel, illustrating the devastating effects of living under crushing expectations. Todd’s evolution from a shy, insecure boy into someone who finally dares to stand on his desk at the end is as rewarding as it is agonizing.

The film’s music, composed by Maurice Jarre, heightens its emotional impact. The score never feels overwhelming but rather, it hums in the background, complementing the visuals and the narrative’s pacing. It excels in moments of triumph and fades into the silence when the weight of sorrow needs to speak for itself. The music, like Keating’s lessons, whispers rather than shouts, reminding us that the most powerful messages often come in the quietest moments.

This is a film that asks you to reflect on your own life, your choices and the ways in which you may stick to expectations without realizing it. The message to "seize the day" feels universal, yet deeply personal. The tragedy of Neil’s fate along with the hope of Todd’s awakening leaves viewers in a state of contemplation, questioning the true cost of following one's dreams versus the price of living someone else's. Keating’s influence on the boys is profound but the lasting question is whether society will ever fully embrace the individuality he so fiercely advocates for.

Dead Poets Society is a must watch for anyone who values thoughtful, emotional storytelling. It is a film that encourages viewers to break out of the molds they have been forced into, to think for themselves and to live with passion. In a world that often pushes conformity, this film offers a reminder that life is short and the moments we make our own are the ones that define us. If you are looking for a movie that speaks to the deepest parts of your soul, this is the one.

Rating: 9/10⭐️

Speak No Evil Review

 

Speak No Evil is a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. It is not your typical horror film, but one that disturbs through its simplicity and silence. The story centers on a Danish family who befriends a Dutch couple while on vacation. What starts as a friendly invitation to spend time at their home turns into a chilling exploration of human behavior and the lengths people will go to avoid confrontation.

From the very beginning, there is an unsettling feeling that something is off. The interactions between the two families are filled with awkwardness, but nothing overtly sinister happens for a long time. The film masterfully builds tension in these small moments, making you question what is really going on. The quiet discomfort escalates slowly, almost too slowly at times.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that the true horror lies not in any supernatural force, but in the everyday decisions people make to avoid awkward situations. The Danish family continually suppresses their instincts, choosing to be polite even when things feel wrong. This theme of social pressure is what gives this film its unique edge. It’s terrifying because it feels real, like a scenario you could easily find yourself in if you were not paying attention.

The performances are subtle yet powerful. Scoot Mcnairy and Aisling Franciosi as the Danish couple bring a quiet intensity to their roles, making you feel their growing unease and helplessness. The Dutch couple, played by James McAvoy and Mackenzie Davis, strike a perfect balance between charming and unsettling. Their friendly demeanor hides something much darker, and it is this ambiguity that keeps you on edge throughout.

One of the film’s strengths is its atmosphere. The remote countryside setting is beautiful yet isolating, creating a sense of claustrophobia despite the open spaces. The use of silence is particularly effective, with long stretches where nothing much is said, but everything is felt. This minimalism in both dialogue and action works to amplify the tension, making the few moments of violence and horror even more shocking.

Speak No Evil is a film that knows how to unsettle without relying on jump scares or gore. It is slow, deliberate and deeply psychological. While the pacing might be too slow for some, the payoff is worth it if you are willing to sit with the discomfort. 

Rating: 7/10⭐️