Suzuki GSX-S1000: PH2
Finally, Suzuki builds a naked GSX-R1000
Looks cool, and the riding position is spot on
The first question on everyone's lips about the GSX-S is how closely it is related to a GSX-R. Well, the engine is based around the GSX-R1000 K5-K8 'long-stroke' lump (which is no bad thing at all) but has new pistons, different cams and cheaper steel valves instead of the GSX-R's titanium items. So far so good, and with a claimed 146hp on tap that's a promising start. The engine is housed within a brand new aluminium beam chassis, which appears nice and sporty, and then mated to inverted forks with radial Brembo calipers and optional ABS. And, speaking of electronics, the GSX-S comes with a 3-mode traction control system, which can also be turned off. On paper at least you have to say Suzuki have done their homework, but does the ride impress?
On the money
The first thing that strikes you about the GSX-S is its sound. The standard, road legal exhaust has a lovely rasp and it's a far cry from the traditionally muted Japanese roadsters. The styling is quite bold without being too garish or plastic-fantastic, although I have to say the matt grey colour doesn't do the bike any favours. For me, red and blue are much more visually pleasing options. Once on the go the GSX-S's riding position is bang on for a sports naked and I like the fact Suzuki have given it a proper set of manly Renthal Fatbar bars. So often manufacturers forget the difference a nice set of bars make to the whole riding experience, the old Speed Triple's hideous chrome items spring instantly to mind. Personally I don't think the clocks are that clear and the LCD is a touch hard to read, but more of that later. What I'm more interested in is if Suzuki has put the awesome K5 engine to good use.
Damper doesn't feel the most expensive
I'm not sure what I was expecting from the GSX-S, but with a naked bike I want lots of lovely low down grunt, something the Suzuki lacks a bit. It's certainly no slouch, but there is a definitely transition from low end to a far stronger top end when it comes to power. My memory isn't the best, but I can't help but feel the K5 GSX-R1000 was stronger low down and I wonder if the changes Suzuki have made to the motor have actually improved it. Which brings me onto another worry - the fuel injection.
In an age of advanced electronics, I wasn't hugely impressed by the initial throttle feeling on the GSX-S. It's quite abrupt and not what I expect from Suzuki and its traditionally excellent SDTV system. Maybe someone in R&D has engineered some aggression into it to give the bike a bit of character, but without power modes to play with, I'd prefer it to be a little more refined. That said, the GSX-S certainly has enough power on tap and when you get going the engine is a cracker with a strong top end that is certainly more than enough to make road riding a thrilling experience. The chassis is also fairly good, however the damper does feel a little on the budget side and down a bumpy road it did start to protest slightly.
Traction control system very intuitive
So where does it stand?
The GSX-S1000 is a really solid super naked and one that, if it had been released five years ago, we would all have been going bonkers over. It's certainly not in the same ballpark as the likes of the BMW S1000R when it comes to technology or insanity, but it is cheaper and a good performer. If you are into super nakeds then it's good looking, sporty and does have a fair bit of character. However by the same token it's never going to set the world on fire. It's hard to really criticise the GSX-S as it's a good road bike in a typical Japanese fashion, but it does feel a little behind the game compared to the full-on European offerings such as the BMW or Tuono.
SUZUKI GSX-S1000
Engine: 999cc inline four, 16v
Power (hp): 146@10,000rpm
Torque(lb ft): 78@ 9,500rpm
Top speed: 150mph (est)
Weight: 209kg (wet)
MPG: 45mpg (est)
Price: £9,499 (non-ABS £8,999)
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