Has it got enough to compete against the top hyper naked bikes?
Suzuki has not only given the new GSX-S1000 a new bold look, but also improved almost everything about it.But, has it got enough to compete against the top hyper naked bikes?
What changed?
Literally everything, in fact the driving position is completely different. Designed for high-level comfort while maintaining a fairly aggressive riding style. The handlebars are now wider and closer to the rider, while the controls sit just behind the knees.
I would have personally preferred a more active position, being a super naked, but after a while I began to understand the reason why Suzuki has done that. The seat is excellent, wide, large and very comfortable compared to other bikes of the same class.
Its chassis coupled with fully adjustable suspension and Dunlop Roadsmart 2S tires offer a sharp, precise and more stable ride.
The engine
The 999cc liquid-cooled unit now has new cams, valve springs, exhaust, revised injection, new airbox and more to help it become Euro5 compliant and give a
subtle boost to both peak power (extra 2bhp, now at 152 bhp) and to the mid-range.
There is no doubt that power delivery has improved compared to the previous model. What's missing at the lower end makes up for what's in the mids and highs. I always found myself wanting to push it higher just like a supersport.
The gearbox is precise and positive. The up and down quickshifter is also very easy to use especially after 3000 rpm. It comes as standard and completes the GSX-S1000 giving it an extra touch of sportiness.
Handling
The Gixxer S1000 has always been a fun bike to ride. Where it really shines is in the twisties, given it weighs 214kg I was not expecting such flickability.
The 43 mm upside-down forks are fully adjustable and offer sportbike feeling, while at the rear the monoshock is adjustable in both rebound and preload.
Brakes are high quality and offer excellent stopping power, thanks to the superbike-style Brembo monoblock.
Equipment
The six-axis IMU that you can find on the top of the naked range is missing, so there is no wheelie control alongside traction control. But we have a traction control that intervenes in a fairly clean way and based on speed rather than lean. Three power levels but it's missing cornering traction/abs.
The display is not TFT but a simple LCD that looks a bit dated and out of place on this bike. But all the information is readable and controllable in a simple and effective way.
As I mentioned earlier, the up and down quickshifter is also standard and it's one of the best.
The captivating and modern design is not for everyone, but I find the rear spectacular. Well done Suzuki.
Price
Find this bike at Bolton Motorcycle starting from £10,999. It is a lot less than its competition, at this price point it's a great option for the real world rider.
Gianluigi Mango
GM MOTO
