By dennismary.slave@gmail.com 
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is the latest crossover motorcycle from Suzuki, aimed at striking a balance between exhilarating speed and long-distance comfort. But the question remains: Is this bike good enough to stand up against the stiff competition in this genre? With bikes like Yamaha’s Tracer 9 GT and BMW’s S1000XR leading the charge, Suzuki has some stiff competition. Let’s dive into this review to see if the GSX-S1000GX is truly up to the task.
Engine and Performance
One of the key strengths of the GSX-S1000GX is its powerful 999cc inline-4 engine, a well-proven performer derived from Suzuki’s legendary K5 engine. This motor delivers a solid 150 horsepower at 11,000 RPM, positioning it at the higher end of the spectrum when compared to other crossover bikes. The power at the top end is phenomenal, offering riders a thrilling experience when pushing the bike to its limits. Moreover, the distinctive inline-4 engine note, coupled with a stock exhaust, adds to the overall riding sensation.
However, there are trade-offs. While the top-end power is impressive, the bike lacks substantial bottom-end torque, which may leave some riders craving more grunt at lower RPMs. This is a common characteristic of inline-4 engines, so potential buyers should weigh this against their desire for top-end power. Despite this, there’s enough mid-range torque to make the GSX-S1000GX enjoyable at moderate speeds. But if you’re looking for thrills at the lower rev range, this might not be the bike for you.
Read More –https://sojampublish.org/ktms-2025-model-lineup-a-new-era-of-adventure-and-innovation/
Handling and Suspension
The handling of the GSX-S1000GX is a bit of a mixed bag. On the positive side, the bike feels balanced and offers a decent level of stability while still being nimble enough for spirited riding. Much of this is thanks to Suzuki’s introduction of semi-active electronic suspension, a first for the brand. This suspension system continuously adjusts based on road conditions and rider input, giving a sense of adaptability on different terrains.
The semi-active suspension comes with three preset modes: hard, medium, and soft. Hard mode is particularly stiff, likely more suited to smoother roads often found in Europe, whereas medium mode seems to be the sweet spot for most UK roads. Soft mode offers more comfort, ideal for long rides or motorway cruising. Additionally, riders have the option to adjust the preload settings, adding further customization for their specific preferences.
For a bike that weighs about 230kg, the handling is surprisingly agile. However, the braking system leaves room for improvement. While the bike comes equipped with four-piston radial-mounted Brembo calipers, there’s a lack of initial bite and feel, especially when compared to competitors like the BMW S1000XR. After some riding, it becomes apparent that the braking power is there but requires a firm squeeze of the lever to tap into it fully. Perhaps upgrading the pads or switching to braided brake lines could help address this issue.
Tires and Riding Confidence
The GSX-S1000GX comes fitted with Dunlop Roadsport tires, which, while serviceable in dry conditions, failed to inspire confidence in damp or mixed weather. During test rides, the tires exhibited a tendency to lock up, particularly on shaded or slightly wet patches of road. This reduced confidence, especially when riding in less-than-ideal conditions, could be a dealbreaker for some riders.
That said, many riders of sport-touring or crossover motorcycles have preferred tire brands and are likely to swap the stock tires for something more suited to their riding style and conditions. However, it would have been nice to see a more confidence-inspiring tire choice as standard.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX fits comfortably within the crossover segment in terms of riding position. It’s taller and more open than a sport-tourer like the GSX-S1000GT but not as upright or high as a full-on adventure bike. For a rider standing at 5’9″ (175 cm), the seating position is quite comfortable. The handlebars are wide but not excessively so, and the seat height of 845 mm allows riders to comfortably get their toes down on both sides.
However, the comfort starts to decline on longer rides. While the bike is comfortable for short to medium distances, the seat is somewhat narrow and lacks edge support. After a few hours in the saddle, riders may start to feel discomfort. There’s an option for a more premium seat from Suzuki’s accessories catalog, which may be worth considering for long-distance touring. The passenger seat also falls short when compared to adventure or touring bikes, offering limited space and comfort.
Technology
The GSX-S1000GX offers a solid tech package, but it’s here where Suzuki shows some signs of falling behind. The 2024 model is equipped with semi-active suspension, cruise control, and a slick quick-shifter as standard. The dash is easy to read and the switchgear is intuitive, making it a user-friendly ride. However, unlike many competitors, the GSX-S1000GX lacks predefined riding modes like “Rain” or “Sport.” Instead, riders must customize their settings for engine mapping, traction control, and suspension damping individually.
While this allows for a tailored riding experience, it can also be overwhelming for riders who prefer simpler, preset modes. More tech-savvy riders may appreciate the customization options, but others might feel that the GSX-S1000GX is missing out on modern conveniences, especially when compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+, which comes with advanced features like adaptive cruise control and linked brakes, all powered by radar technology.
Design and Styling
In terms of design, the crossover genre can be tricky. These bikes often have the tall, upright stance of an adventure bike but with the sleeker bottom half of a sports bike. As a result, proportions can sometimes look a bit off. The GSX-S1000GX follows this trend but with a few aesthetic improvements over previous models.
The stacked projector headlights might not appeal to everyone, but they are a step up from the GT’s twin headlights, which resembled small eyes. The angular and aggressive design may not cater to all tastes, but the blue version stands out with its eye-catching aesthetic. For riders looking for something more subtle, the black or khaki green colorways offer a more understated, stealthy appearance.
Price and Competition
At just under £15,000, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is one of the more affordable options in its class, especially considering its semi-active electronic suspension. There’s also a more premium version available that comes with luggage for an extra few hundred pounds.
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ is the bike’s most direct competitor, priced just above £15,000. While it may be down on power compared to the GSX-S1000GX, it offers a superior tech package and a lighter overall feel. The BMW S1000XR is another contender, offering top-tier quality and excitement, but at a much higher starting price.
Table of Specifications
| Feature | Suzuki GSX-S1000GX | Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ | BMW S1000XR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 999cc inline-4 | 890cc inline-3 | 999cc inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 150 HP @ 11,000 RPM | 117 HP @ 10,000 RPM | 165 HP @ 11,000 RPM |
| Weight | 230 kg | 213 kg | 226 kg |
| Suspension | Semi-active | Semi-active with radar | Semi-active |
| Starting Price | £14,999 | £15,199 | £17,400 |
FAQs
- Is the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX suitable for long-distance touring?
- Yes, but the seat could be more comfortable for extended trips. An optional premium seat is available in the accessories catalog.
- How does the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX compare to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+?
- The Suzuki offers more power and sportiness, while the Tracer 9 GT+ provides a superior tech package and is generally lighter.
- Does the GSX-S1000GX have riding modes?
- No preset riding modes. Riders must customize engine mapping, traction control, and suspension settings manually.
- How does the bike handle in wet conditions?
- The stock Dunlop Roadsport tires don’t inspire much confidence in wet conditions. Upgrading to better tires is recommended.
- What’s the seat height of the GSX-S1000GX?
- The seat height is 845 mm, suitable for riders around 5’9″ or taller.
- Is cruise control standard?
- Yes, cruise control comes as standard on the GSX-S1000GX.
- Can the suspension settings be adjusted?
- Yes, the semi-active suspension allows for customizable damping and preload settings for a personalized riding experience.
Conclusion
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX for 2024 brings a lot to the table, especially in terms of power, handling, and value for money. While it may fall short in some areas, particularly in terms of tech features and braking feel, it remains a solid contender in the crossover motorcycle segment. For those who prioritize a sporty riding experience with semi-active suspension and are willing to customize their settings, the GSX-S1000GX is definitely worth considering.