Now, for 2022, there’s a new Suzuki GSX-S 1000 on the market. It offers the rider a more rounded and easier to use package. Rather than dramatically re-design the bike, the Japanese giant have revised it and done so in a very thorough manner indeed.
Mostly the idea behind the new machine is to bring some of what is wonderful about the mighty ‘Gixxer thou’ to the road in a more manageable manner. The plan starts with using the same legendary engine in a friendlier state of tune. Lob it into a light chassis. Plonk on a friendly upright sitting position that lends itself to an unintimidating riding experience on top of it and it’s sure to be a rip roaring success.
Starting with the styling the designers have managed to make this look like the brand new bike that it is. Bodywork looks sharper. And features like the LED headlight, not only look the part, but it also save weight while being more powerful than a standard unit. Those Moto GP winglets, seem to be compulsory on every new bike in the 1000cc class. The ‘S’ is no exception with a set built into the front cowl where they create a sense of intent.
The whole affair is still powered by that Gixxer 1000 RR motor. It’s state of tune is more in keeping with something built for the road rather than the track. As is relatively easy for the manufacturers these days there is a suite of electronics as standard. The ride by wire throttle combined with a SCAS, or Suzuki Clutch Assist System, combine with the ABS braking system to make stopping in a hurry a whole lot less dramatic. The same system makes taking off less likely to launch the bike and rider into orbit.
Then there’s the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). There are three power settings, Sport, Street and ‘I should have bought a scooter’ mode. The setup is complimented with a traction control system that has five different settings. These include the option to switch the whole lot off. As an added bonus the new beast even has a bi-directional quick shifter.
Handling is hugely improved with a new swingarm. There is also a set of upside down KYB forks which, just like the single shock on the rear, are fully adjustable. That excellent braking system is in turn delivered via a set of beautiful Brembo callipers. Conventional handlebars, rather than the parent RR machines clip-ons, make it so much friendlier to those of us who have passed an age milestone along the way…
Good as it may be, there will never, ever be a bike as good as the Suzuki TL1000S back in the late nineties. That is, back when men were men. Speed limits were advisory. And a swing arm failure on a track day was an acceptable risk and all that…
The new Suzuki GSX-S 1000 is available from most motorcycle dealers across the country. For more information call 014784200.
