2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX and GSX-8R
All-new adventure tourer based on venerable Suzuki GSX-S1000 sports tourer, plus faired sports version of GSX-8S roadster released at 2023 EICMA bike show in Milan
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX
Suzuki’s been on a bit of a renaissance the past couple of years, with its new range of 800cc parallel twins. But it’s one of the firm’s older engines which powers perhaps its most interesting new 2024 model: the 999cc inline-four GSX-S1000 motor, based on the 2005 GSX-R1000 unit.
That 152bhp powerplant finds itself in the new GSX-S1000 GX: a full-on adventure touring machine, with a very high level of kit and equipment, including electronic suspension, a six-axis IMU-assisted riding aids package, and 6.5” colour dash.
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX
The suspension is Suzuki’s first foray into electronic semi-active systems, and uses Showa components, along with Suzuki’s own software settings. The hardware is based on the SFF-CATM USD telescopic front fork and BFRC-lite link-type monoshock, and Suzuki has a range of programmed settings for softer or harder rides.
The system also includes a preload setting feature, which uses a hydraulic reservoir under the rear sub frame, pressurised by a DC motor that adjusts the spring preload on the rear as needed.
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX
The engine electronics are also impressive, with the highest level of sophistication yet from Suzuki. There’s a six-axis IMU that provides cornering traction and ABS as well as wheelie control, cruise control, and also feeds into the electronic suspension control. Rider power modes, up/down quickshifter and smartphone connectivity are also all present and correct.
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX
The rest of the bike is sort of as you’d expect from a premium ADV tourer: large rear carrier rack and pannier mounts for hard luggage, extensive wind protection from the screen and hand guards, 19-litre fuel tank, comfy seating for two, and LED lighting all round. Kerb weight is a decent 232kg, and seat height is 845mm.
Perhaps the best feature is the price: just £14,500 is a very decent amount in 2023 for a full-on litre Adventure bike with this level of tech – and it’s set to be in the shops next month.
Suzuki’s other big hit has been the GSX-8S naked roadster, so it’s no big surprise that the firm has released a faired sportsbike version. The new GSX-8R will go up against the likes of the Yamaha R7 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 in the upper-middleweight sporty twin sector, and should do well, thanks to the excellent 776cc 82bhp motor.
2024 Suzuki GSX-8R
The R gets the obvious full fairing with LED headlights, plus lower clip-on bars and higher pegs, for a sportier riding position, but it’s also got sportier chassis running gear.
2024 Suzuki GSX-8R
Showa forks replace the KYB kit on the GSX-8S, with firmer damping and springing to suit the more forward weight bias, and there’s also a new Showa rear monoshock. It’s simple enough road kit: no damping adjustment, and preload only on the rear shock, but should do well in this role. No price or availability as yet on the GSX-8R, but expect it to sell well in the new year.
