The iconic Suzuki Raider R150 took the spotlight at the World Trade Center last January 10 during the Raider R150 Summit. The event saw 2,800 riders from 45 Suzuki clubs based in different parts of the country partaking in activities that highlight the bike’s legacy.
Present during the opening program were Suzuki Philippines president Hiroshi Suzuki, motorcycle division sales and marketing general manager Jun Balot, marketing manager Monch Bontogon, and assistant national sales manager Mitsunori Shiraishi.
After welcoming their guests to the venue, Suzuki Philippines allowed them to revel in a modern club party set-up with an exhibit detailing the evolution of the Raider R150. Included in the display is the bike’s predecessor, the R125, various redesigns throughout the years, as well as other Raider bikes like the Raider J 110, Raider J Pro, and the Raider J115 Fi.
The centerpiece of the event is the Raider R150 Custom Bike Contest where 28 R150 units were modified into two-wheeled works of art. The showcase had two categories—the Custom Bike which focuses on aesthetics and Custom Racing Bike which focuses on engine modification—with multiple winners emerging per group. Johnie Rey Nabua won the Best Concept Bike Title; SPO3 Josing Gega Jr. nabbed the Best Custom Bike award; and the Best Custom Racing Bike distinction went to the 300cc R150 of John Benedict Ibasco.
Other special honors included the Media Choice Award which went to Johnie Rey Nabua; Rider’s Choice was Jonard Javier; Best Chrome went to Michael Angelo Apostol; while the Best Paint award was given to Reyson Cello Mesina. The three major winners each went home PHP 30,000 richer, while the minor awardees received PHP 5,000 each.
Event goers also got an exclusive look at the newest Raider R150 Reloaded. It boasts updated decals, unique wavy disc brakes, and key shutter for added security. It is powered by a 150cc DOHC 4-valve 6-speed engine and costs PHP 94,900. Two units of the new Raider were raffled off to lucky guests Mitchel Andrew Magat and Marlon Catalina.
Moreover, Suzuki Philippines also held special contests for both individuals and clubs. The Biker Babe, Best Rider, and Couple Rider honors went to Patricia Louise De La Vega, Ace Elnar, and Emman Cruz and Gladyz Aquino, respectively; while the Biggest Raider Group Delegation went to Club R150, Biggest Raider Chapter Delegation went to Philippine Suzuki Riders Club Laguna, Farthest Deligation went to Team R150 Tacloban, and Earliest delegation went to The Raider R150 Owners Club NCR. The Skydrive Nation also received the Biggest Delegation title. All winners received cash prizes and trophies from Suzuki.
Suzuki riders also had the opportunity to purchase discounted spare parts, accessories, and devices from event partners which included Suzuki Genuine Parts, Faito, IRC Tire, NHK Helmets, Gm, RK Racing Chain and Sprocket, Eromina Tires, Bushido, SKK Mobile, MotoActive, RCB, Spyder and Sun Cellular.
Since launching in 2004, the Raider R150 has sold over 130,000 units and has left a definite mark on the country’s motoring scene.