MANILA: With the population of motorcycle riders in the Philippines steadily growing, it is only natural for many of our local riders to feel the need to graduate from riding a small displacement scooter to a larger, expressway-legal ride.

On that note, we take a quick look at two viable options for those wanting to make that upgrade. Today, we pit the Suzuki Burgman 400 against the Bristol Maxie 400, to which of the two nameplates would best suit your budget, style, and overall riding needs.

Read all about this maxi scoot showdown to see which is the better choice.

Body, appearance

Outside, the Suzuki Burgman 400 exudes elegance and sportiness.

At the front, one will find a wide fender that houses a two-part headlamp with the Suzuki emblem at the top, flanked by two inlets on each side. Above it is a large windshield that not only helps protect the rider from the elements but also makes the fascia of the Burgman 400 look more graceful.

Below is a short but wide fender that houses a 15-inch wheel wrapped in 120/70 tubeless tires. It also packs twin disc brakes at the front.

The side profile of the Suzuki Burgman 400 is adorned by panels with straight lines and aggressive-looking angles. It also has wide step boards, similarly large foot pegs for the pillion rider, a big — but discreet — continuously variable transmission (CVT) cover, and a long exhaust pipe.

From this angle, one will also notice the amply-cushioned seat of the Suzuki Burgman 400.

At the back, the Suzuki Burgman 400 packs a beautiful taillamp complemented by its two-part grab bar. It has a chunky rear fender that has a reflector. Under which is a 13-inch wheel with 150/70 tires. A single disc brake provides ample stopping power from the rear.

On the other hand, the Bristol Maxie 400 dons an athletic and adventurous look.

Its fore packs also a two-part headlamp but is bedecked with aggressive-looking appliques making it look like an adventure scooter. Above it is a windshield that allows decent protection from the elements. Protruding turn signals can be found on its flanks.

Under the fascia of the Bristol Maxie 400 is a short fender that hides a 14-inch tire shod in 120/70 tubeless rubber. It gets a single disc brake at the front.

On the side of the Bristol Maxie 400 are durable-looking appointments that come in the form of silver-colored claddings found on the lower side fairings as well as on the housing that covers the engine. The foot pegs are in the same silver color as well as the exhaust system.

The Bristol Maxie 400 has a wide seat that looks like it can comfortably accommodate two riders.

Bristol’s maxi scoot gets beautiful taillamps at the rear as well as two protruding turn signals. A solid frame that may be equipped with a top utility box also serves as its grab bar. Under it is a 13-inch wheel with 150/70 tubeless tires. Braking is facilitated by a single disc brake.

Overall the Suzuki Burgman 400 and the Bristol Maxie 400 are neck in neck in terms of looks and exterior appointments. However, we have to give it to the former as it packs a twin disc brake setup at the front. On that note, the round goes to the Burgman 400.

Engine, power

Powering the Suzuki Burgman 400 is a 400 cubic centimeter (cc) engine mated to a CVT. The powerplant is fuel-injected and liquid-cooled.

Meanwhile, the Bristol Maxie 400 uses a 377cc engine, also to a CVT. It is similarly cooled using a liquid fluid.

Thanks to its higher engine displacement, the round goes yet again to the Suzuki Burgman 400.

Other features

Other notable features of the Suzuki Burgman 400 include its 13.5-liter fuel tank and generous underseat compartment. It also has a hand brake as well as two closed pockets (one with a USB charger) to help keep one’s daily necessities safe while riding.

Not to be outdone, the Bristol Maxie 400 gets a digital instrument cluster, a dash cam, and a built-in volt meter.

With both maxi scooters offering above-average features, we call this round a tie.

Variants and pricing

• Suzuki Burgman 400: P529,000
• Bristol Maxie 400: Price upon request

Verdict

Overall the winner of this maxi scooter matchup is the Suzuki Burgman 400. Not only does it pack better appointments as well as a larger engine but it’s also priced reasonably and transparently.

Photos from Suzuki Philippines Incorporated and Bristol Motorcycles Philippines

Also read:

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Unconventional steed: Suzuki Avenis

Suzuki GSX-R 1000R: Top 3 reasons to buy