Bike: Suzuki GSX-S1000
It serves up the best bits from Suzuki’s GSX-R superbike, arguably looks better and is relatively affordable. But is the GSX-S1000 a winner?
IF you are a biker, you have it good. At a time when carmakers are concentrating their efforts on autonomous-driving systems and electric vehicles, the primary focus of most motorcycle companies remains performance.
But, while superbikes have traditionally grabbed the headlines, there are now several other market segments in the bike industry to investigate. As a result, other (read non-superbike models) are affording buyers the opportunity to acquire motorcycles that are almost as quick as superbikes, but more comfortable and just as enjoyable, even at slightly lower speeds.
Suzuki’s GSX-S1000 is a prime example. The naked bike segment is not a new one; but these days, you are guaranteed that, shortly after a manufacturer releases a new superbike, a less powerful, but more useable naked version will follow shortly thereafter.
To begin with, this test unit features a new take on the legendary blue Suzuki colour scheme that’s richer and brighter than before.
Being the naked version, there’s little in the way of fairings, but the pieces that are visible lend the bike a very purposeful stance. These include the sharply angled fairings behind the front fork that run over the fuel tank, as well as the front manifold cover and even the headlight housing. As a result, onlookers are treated to a wonderful view of the high-revving, inline four-cylinder engine.
It’s a unit that’s based on the GSX-R1000 manufactured between 2005 and 2008. Although this engine might seem old, it never feels as though it lacks in any department, our test results giving a marked indication of the performance on hand. On our test strip, we managed a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of 3,64 seconds. In more favourable conditions, it should be entirely possible to shave a 10th or two off that already formidable time.
The moment you pull away, even on part throttle, the GSXS1000 makes you all too aware that a 1 000 cm3 engine sits underneath you. Only a few thousand revs are needed to leave all traffic behind, and that is looong before you have chased that 11 500 r/min redline.
The riding position is spot on, and precisely what you would want from a naked bike. Sitting more upright than you would on an out-and-out superbike, it is pleasingly comfortable.
As expected, the engine shows no hesitation in revving and the digital rev-counter bars quickly light up horizontally over the top of the information screen. First gear takes you all the way to 135 km/h (a 1 000 cm3 super can easily go to 160 km/h) while the engine screams, and then you can hook second gear with a minimal impact on acceleration. The braking system does a superb job, with the callipers grabbing the double discs with conviction.
Tipping the scales at 210 kg (fully fuelled), the Suzuki is on par for a 1000, which not only assists braking, but also lends it a secure demeanour through corners, with changes in direction requiring little input. Owing to the seating position, it is easy to move around on the bike in order to get comfortable, or when negotiating a string of corners. At moderate speeds, there’s also little in the way of wind buffeting to contend with, allowing you to best position yourself on the bike and focus on making the most of the Suzuki’s handling and performance. It’s only at high speeds that you begin to notice the lack of a small windscreen behind which you would normally shelter from the wind on a GSX-R.
Suzuki was one of the last manufacturers to add electronic traction and stability control to its bikes. Needless to say, it is a welcome addition. On the road, I left the traction-control system on (there’s no stability control here), and it never intruded during a fairly spirited ride. This system also remained on while performance testing, and only allowed a marginal degree of front-wheel lift when switched to one of the more relaxed settings.
TEST SUMMARY
The GSX-S1000 didn’t throw any surprises our way. It does exactly what it says on the tin. It looks aggressive and purposeful, like a naked sports bike should, and it has a high-revving 1 000 cm3 borrowed from its superbike sibling. Furthermore, the addition of traction control means that it presents an easier learning curve for both the novice and the seasoned rider.
I grew up being drawn to superbikes, and nothing has changed. But, if you are going to spend most of your time on the road, maybe commute a little, and attend the occasional track day, the GSX-S1000 should be strongly considered, especially at its current price.