Suzuki have released this revamped version of its GSX-S1000, a naked which is more powerful, stylish and capable than ever before.
The old GSX-S proved popular for many years due to its combination of powerful litre bike motor and modest price tag, but recently rivals had stormed away. To redress that, Suzuki have worked to bring the GSX-S back on to similar terms as the competition by making it into a wallet-friendly monster
The superbike-derived 999cc inline four at the GSX-S1000’s heart has been considerably reworked, delivering a modest power increase at the same time as a reduction in emissions. The motor has new intake and exhaust camshafts, with revised profiles to reduce valve overlap, plus a new airbox to reduce intake resistance. The result is peak power rising slightly from 148 to 150bhp along with a much flatter torque curve for a broader spread of oomph throughout the rev range.
The revised motor is also joined by a new Euro5-friendly exhaust, new clutch and new throttle bodies, which Suzuki say improve response at low openings – a common complaint of the previous model.
To go with the improved engine, Suzuki have also created an improved set of electronic rider aids. Just as Suzuki did with the latest Hayabusa and V-Strom 1050, the new GSX-S gains the 'Suzuki Intelligent Ride System' ('SIRS') albeit not quite to the same extent.
There’s a new ride-by-wire throttle, three riding modes, a five stage traction control (including fully off), quickshifter, autoblipper and new LCD dash. However, Suzuki have stopped short of fitting an IMU, so the traction control and ABS systems are not lean-sensitive.
But the most obvious change to the new GSX-S1000 is its looks thanks to a complete restyle of its bodywork. Gone are the rounded plastics and single headlight of the old in favour of twin, stacked headlights and aggressive angular bodywork complete with MotoGP inspired wings.
There are lots of nice details, too, including a 'camo-inspired design' on the side panels that looks just like carbon fibre at a glance while the lights are now LEDs throughout.
There’s been a few tweaks to the chassis, too, including a revised riding position with wider, closer bars, new saddle, updated suspension settings and a two-litre larger fuel tank (now 19 litres).
Best of all though, it doesn’t cost much more than the old model, either. The 2021 GSX-S1000 is priced £10,999 when it arrives late June, only £300 more than the old one. After 12 months of queuing outside supermarkets, get ready for some outside Suzuki dealers
