Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX Review | Better Than The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT?
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- Опубліковано 22 чер 2022
- A first ride review of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX, having ridden the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT recently, I compare these two sports touring motorcycles to find out which is better.
The Ninja 1000SX has been around for years now but has been improved and refined over the years. With a silky smooth 4 cylinder engine and that Kawasaki experience in building sports tourers, it is a great motorbike.
The Suzuki is the new kid on the block, with the famous GSX engine, is the Suzuki now the best sports tourer. Which one should you buy?
#kawasakininja #suzukigsxs1000 #sportstourer #touringmotorcycle
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In case anyone is 'on the fence' and looking at these comments.
First check out the direct comparison with Neeves as he gets it spot on.
If you're a fanboy of either, then go with that brand
But, the Kawasaki pips the Suzuki in most areas but it is close.
Had a chance to ride both the Suzuki GT and the Kawasaki SX. Both are comfy for hours and offer more go than I can use. Ended up with the Kawasaki. Preferred the suspension, the brakes, the layout of electronics, the large existing aftermarket and dealer service department knowledge of which 3rd party accessories integrate best for upgrades like driving lights. Totally happy with everything except - I really REALLY liked the Suzuki blue.
Hi Greg, sounds like you will be pleased with the Kawasaki 👌 I agree with all of the points you mention, the Kawasaki is a tad more premium in most departments and probably a better touring bike. For some reason I just found the Suzuki a more engaging enjoyable ride. Just personal opinion though. Cheers and hope you enjoy your new bike 👍
Kawasaki has more torque. Seems less stressed on motorways.
@@arnoldtm31 - Agreed. The more time I spend in the saddle the happier I am with this motorcycle.
@@arnoldtm31 The Suzuki is geared too low and the engine very busy at freeway speeds. And the build quality up close, not impressive nor are the cheap looking plastic buttons and switch gear.
Suzuki does something with the gearing, add an adjustable windscreen, add a remote preload adjuster to rear shock, and take a bit more pride in build quality and imo then it's a winner. 6 axis would be nice as well.
I'm a Kawi guy, but the Suzuki looks better than the 1000SX, especially the exhaust.
I’ve bought the same bike same colour does he know this is the touring version I rode to Suzuki GT ninja is better by far even the MCN review say the Kawasaki is a better bike. 👍
You doing a very good review job.Good way of translation from ride feeling to words. Keep it up! I seen a few of your reviews and your nailing the important stuff every time!
Hey, thanks so much I really appreciate that 👌 Really pleased you like the reviews and great to hear that they translate well. Cheers
My best friend, OMG! So wonderful! I really love this! Thank you so much!
I get that i am an one guy these days, but i just love sport tourers. WAY more involving to ride than being a human sail on an ADV style bike. I’m happy to see traditional sport tourers making a bit of a come back. I just picked up the new V100 Mandello. Wonderful bike too
👍 They are brilliant to ride and I understand exactly where you are coming from. Awesome bike, hope you enjoy the V100 😎
Good work mate. Also a nice bike. Enjoyed it. Agree with the weight feel comparison and riding description. Keep up and drop by when have time. 😀
Cheers 👍 Yup it is a cracking bike, I just found the Suzuki more fun for some reason.
Well done again! You do a good review my friend. You have the knack! Good and honest.
Have to agree. Great channel. Following it. Drop by, you may like it.😀
Thanks 👌
👌 Thanks so much Ben I appreciate that. Really good to hear. Cheers and pleased you are enjoying them.
It’s such a shame Yamaha won’t put their CP4 engine in a proper tourer with a big fuel tank as it would blast a lot of the competition
Very true, that would be a brilliant bike!!
I need to test ride the MT10 😁
A Tracer 10 would be the bees knees.
@@motodiablo except that engine gets like 25mpg. Fail.
@@tg8150 A "touring" riding mode, coupled with a larger tank could make it a reasonable option. I want a FUN sports-tourer with a good soundtrack.
First impressions thought it needed machine guns mounted on both sides..
Don't know why..
Nice video!
Like the fact there's no bull in your video's
Cheers Angus
Haha I know what you mean!! It has that sort of space ship vibe to it, a couple of laser guns mounted to the front 😂
Yup that bull was putting me off a bit! Thanks pleased you liked the vid, a great motorbike 👍
Great review
Thank so much I appreciate it 👍
I just pulled the trigger and wired the funds to a dealer I trust. My 2022 GT+ is in the crate and will probably be assembled tomorrow! I've owned a Hayabusa, Yamaha FJR, and a HD Fat boy, but I'll tell you, I (paper) love this motorcycle already. It's multiple purposeful, beautiful, has great tech, and very reasonable! I can't wait to cruise Sanibel Island on it!
Hi Matthew, massive congratulations on your new bike 👍 It is a great bike and that engine is beautiful! Hope you enjoy it for a long time to come.
@@redangrevival How thoughtful of you to say! Thank you! I'm very excited! There's so much I love on this motorcycle.
@@MMOsForLife 👌
I own a fjr 2002 love it only the gtr kawa or the 1000sx but i like shaft drive
New subscriber.
Loved your content.
🇰🇪🇰🇪👏👏👏👏
Hi and welcome to the channel 👍 Many thanks and really pleased you like the content.
Had a Z1000SX ,sold it and bought a gsx1000f ,the suzuki is much more fun to ride
Hi Patrick, that is interesting to hear from an owners point of view 👍 Yes I think that is what I liked most about the Suzuki, it was just more fun to ride! Cheers
Me too of course I have not ridden either but just for looks the Suzuki would be my choice nice one Red totally agree 😊👍
👍 Cheers glad you liked it. I found the Suzuki was just that bit more fun and involving to ride. Both great bikes at the end of the day!
I’m about to pick one of these up for my first bike, and yes I’m aware that starting on a 1000 isn’t a great idea but I’m doing it anyway and I can’t wait
haha fair enough Dustin, each to their own! It is a very powerful bike for a first bike, there is always the option of putting it in rain/wet mode until you get more confident. Take it easy and ride safe, hope you enjoy the bike its a peach 👌
Yep. And I'm still going to tell you not to. There is a channel called CHAM about a Japanese rider that got her "big" license on a 125 (after some effort) and bought a GSX-1000GT, only to decide she needed more practice on a smaller bike (and went and got s GROM).
If you have dirt bike experience, it's one thing, but truly starting on this much can lessen your enjoyment of the bike, and slow the learning curve of street riding (yes, riding on the street is different). If you have money for this, you have money to invest in less bike, more gear and less anxiety about learning pains (drops).
@@TheCdubbleyoo I grew up riding dirtbikes and quads, plus my uncle had a 600cc and I’ve taken that out a few times and it honestly wasn’t too bad in my opinion, but I felt a little tall on it, only reason I’m going for a 1000
Goodluck
Goodluck
Just traded in my ninja 400 I had for about a year and a half and upgraded to one of these. Gotta get used to the additional weight, but I love it as it was everything I was looking for.
Hi Eric, a great trade up 👌 Sounds like you had a good amount of time on the 400 and are now ready for the 1000, good move. Yes the weight will be noticeable, however I think you will get used to it pretty quickly and come to love the extra power!! All the best and I hope you enjoy it.
@@redangrevival thanks. I loved my 400 and am having fun with my 1000. Leaving it in rain mode for now while I get used to it but it is such a neat bike.
@@pbplayerjim That's awesome to hear and I'm planning to do the same. I'm a little disappointed the Ninja 1000 is only 130HP, but overall it's almost exactly what I want in a bike.
@@Josh-cw8by its 140 hp and Its plenty for all normal roads. I've done 260km/h on my 2014 Z1000SX. And Its lovely to ride fast in the twisties too.
@@chessgains8075 Oh 100%. I'm still getting one. It's just curious that Kawi couldn't squeeze more out of it. I'm thinking a tune should easily get more out of it.
Both bikes look great. I think the SX seems to have the edge, especially over distance. However, there is something unique and a tad less sensible that actually makes the Suzuki more appealing. Great review, SX is certainly a great platform. I wish Honda would get back closer towards this style of bike. Maybe a vfr with similar riding position and a bigger engine.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed the review 👍 Yes I think overall the SX maybe a better bike, however I had more fun on the Suzuki! Great idea, a new VFR would be a VERY nice option to have.
Cheers
@@redangrevival quite ashamed they didn't continue the VFR production..and honda has nothing close to either of these bikes in question..YET!!! Hope honda follows suit
I like the honest review. I'm torn between this 1000 and the H2. I need to choose soon.
Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 Depends how fast you wanna go!! I would go for the 1000!
My younger brother rides the H2, he's very happy with the bike, especially with its low rev torque engine.
@@standoutpunching2936 I must get a ride on the H2 asap 👍
@@redangrevival
You should, and you won't regret it, mate 👍
Put a delkevic slip on for my 21 1000sx. Big improvement over the stock sewing machind sound. The intake sounds great either way
Bet that sounds lovely, such a beautiful engine 👌
The Kawasaki 1000 SX needs a new look. It wouldn’t hurt. But you cannot debate on the built quality which I believe is slightly better than the Suzuki.
I completely agree with you. The quality is a bit better and a new look would definitely not hurt it!! 👍
This is a very tough call just on paper alone. A more touring oriented motorcycle should have a large informative screen for the cockpit. The Kawasaki gets a smaller one designed for a naked bike. While the Kawasaki has an adjustable windshield. I love the looks of the Suzi GT+. But with the Kawasaki, having "NINJA" on a sport tourer screams "race me!" around town. It seems the Suzuki leans a little more towards the sportier side while the Kawasaki leans towards longer distance comfort, and I feel that is almost backwards between the two :)
Screen does adjust and better just left on its highest setting. Below the clocks is a little button you press with your finger tips pointing down. I had the same colour bike but traded after 10 months for a tiger 900 gt pro, now loving it.
Hi Andrew, thanks so much for that, I was struggling to find out how to adjust it! Yes good idea, I think I would also leave it in its highest position. Nice, it is a great bike. The Tiger 900 is one of my favourite bikes on the market today, such a great overall package. Cheers
Didn’t get the warm fuzzy from the Suzuki quite the opposite it went straight to the top of the nope list without pause. Haven’t ridden this yet but big fan of Kawasaki so I’m betting this will be a top choice
Fair enough that is interesting, we are all different at the end of day 👍 I think you may like the Ninja then. Slightly better build quality and suspension components etc...
Nice looking bike.
Yup it’s a beauty! Think I would personally prefer it in the Kawasaki green.
I have the Suzuki and zero regrets. Such a stellar machine.
👌 great choice and good to know you don’t regret it
Love my ninja 1000 sx performance tourer, fully loaded. Suzuki looks nice however i have a thing for symmetry and the GT lights are not lit in symmetry, the kwak is, add to that the kwak finish is far superior, and brakes and suspension are way better. Sorry to disagree
Hi Karl, no worries at all 👍 I get it, the Kawasaki is that bit more premium overall, for some reason I just had a more enjoyable ride on the Suzuki! Just personal opinion. Thats the beauty of motorbikes, they all have different characters! Cheers
I much prefer the new Suzuki GT, fantastic looks, good value for money and reliability Suzuki are known for 👍
Hi Jeff, I found them close, but yes I would take the Suzuki over the Kawasaki!! As you say great value for money and so much fun to ride. Cheers 👍
I am going to look at the Suzuki next. Internet commentators say it's a lower quality build, has no IMU, and has lessor quality plastics.
@@blackspades0000 Yes this is true. However I prefer the Suzuki!! The engine is nice, prefer the looks and the build quality is very similar really!
@@redangrevival I will have to take each bike for a test ride instead of just looking at them. A test ride will give me a chance to make an fair evaluation.
Well done mate. Another simple and honest review. Sometimes too much technical stuff is no good to normal people like me. We like to just enjoy riding on motorcycles. But I am sure technical stuff do matter to a lot out there as well. How would you rate the Suzuki and kawi over your speedmaster for long distance cruising. I currently own a speed twin and now looking for something more for long distances. Speedmaster/ Tiger 900/ Kawasaki z1000sx and Suzuki gsx100gt are the ones on my list. Don't have the option to test ride kawi and Suzuki. Any advice would be well appreciated mate.. Thanks
Hey thanks so much, that is great to hear 👍 I appreciate it.
They are so different it is hard to compare the two! Better wind protection on the Speedmaster with the highway screen, and it is very comfortable for slower cruising. The Suzuki and Kawi are much much faster machines, much more sporty, still both comfortable as well. It completely depends what vibe you are after, cruiser style or more sports bike style.
Purely for touring out of that bunch I would take the Tiger 900!
Hope that is helpful! Good luck with your choice.
@@redangrevival Your advice just sealed the deal for me.. Thanks 👍
@@shijopunnooseabraham O nice, glad it was helpful! What will you go for?
@@redangrevival going for the Tiger.. Yet to decide 900 or the new 1200. But definitely the Tiger. I initially was going to buy the speedmaster instead of the speed twin but it was not in stock at the time. Really love the style and cruiser feel on the speedmaster. Having ridden the Tiger 900 once and I kinda like the feel on that too. Have the speed twin for the little fun times on the twisty. So the Tiger it is for touring. 👍
@@shijopunnooseabraham 👍 A great choice. I love the Tiger 900, perfect balance of everything you need. The 1200 is the same just faster and bigger.
Pretty simple. They are both "Sports Tourers" with the Kawasaki learning slightly more towards the "Touring" side and the Suzuki towards the "Sports" side. Both great bikes, just have to decide which aspect is more important!
I back to back tested the GT and the sx through blade. Both great bikes. I was coming from a bmw s1000r. The sx seemed more grown up and mature, the GT was fun and put a huge smile on my face. I extended the test ride on the suzuki because I was enjoying it so much. That decided the choice for me.
I'm 182cm and found the air coming off the GT screen was cleaner than the sx but this seems to be personal to every rider.
I am glad to hear that. It is exactly how I felt as well, just had more fun on the GSX 👍
I bought my 2022 Ninja 1000SX in March. I rented a GSXS1000GT when my bike was made ready. I have to say, the Suzuki rides great as well. But it has some downsides. The passenger seat on the Suzuki is smaller, which isn't great if you ride with a passenger a lot. Also, the single LED headlight of the Suzuki bounces a LOT, to the annoyance of cars in front of you. I also noticed it myself with the reflection on roadsigns that bounced like hell. All in all, with a lot of things and options (I have the Performance Touring package from Kawasaki), I prefer the Ninja over the GSX-S. Even though the Suzuki is a great bike as well
Hi, congrats on your new bike 🥳 Both great bikes and have some small differences to make them both slightly unique! Yes I found the Kawasaki to be that bit more premium as well. I just had a bit more of a "fun" ride on the Suzuki personally.
That bounce from the headlight does sound very annoying!
I like the looks of this one way more then the Suzuki. Its 105*F here in Texas today, and I rode my Speedmaster to work lol
👍 Fair enough, they are both great motorbikes. I suppose that is the beauty of motorcycling, there is something for everyone. Haha blimey that is hot 🥵 Good effort, hope you had a good ride and drunk plenty of water 😉
@@redangrevival oh yeah, ducking down water like a camel this time of year. Had to scrubb in my new tires.
@@keithstewart1979 👌 thats good to hear!! Nice, don't let the heat keep you down 🤙
I had a zx14 and a Concours, both Kawis and they were great bikes, 176 and 150hp respectively and both fun, fast and comfortable. Kawasaki, Suzuki and Honda all make wonderful bikes just not a British classic.😀
👍 haha absolutely right! They definitely do not have that character and charm of the British classics. A very different kettle of fish! Cheers
The W800 is more British classic than the current Triumphs.
Have you ridden the BMW R 1250RS? If not, I recommend it - I know you liked the Triumph Tiger 1200 and BMW 1250 GS, but the RS is (in my opinion) a brilliant bike. A different bike to the Tiger and the GS for sure; it's a sport tourer like the Kawasaki, not an adventure bike - but , like those two, shaft drive; lower down weight, lighter, more planted, and the same Boxer engine as the GS. All in my humble opinion of course. A good review as ever, thanks.
Hi Ralph, thanks that is a really good suggestion actually 👍 I haven't ridden it yet, I have always been interested by it.
The shaft drive is a massive bonus in my opinion, and the boxer engine is so characterful. Thanks I will try and get a ride on one soon.
I’ve owned a bmw rs with the shaft drive. Two expensive repairs later….. no thanks. I’ll never purchase another bmw. Japanese manufacturered bike is on my next wish list.
Not ridden the Suzuki GT but only because I couldn’t get a test ride for love nor money.
The Kwacker is a good bike, very polished but I’d love to ride the Suzuki
Not sure where you are based but Blade motorcycles in Swindon have a demo to test ride 👍 Great bike
Dude you are on a motorcycle wind comes with it free of charge. Don’t want any wind ride in a cage. 😎
what about the rear seat ??? anyone got a second person there ??? did the suspension turned to gelly ? did the bike behave ??? its a tourer usually you tour 2 up
Recently, i test rode those two bikes back to back. I think the Ninja is overall a better touring bike. Feels like more accomplished, more refined, better equiped (despite the bigger TFT of the GSX S)
And the Suzuki lacks the low end torque of the Kawasaki. I did not like the feeling of the Suzuki ride by wire either.
The Ninja will replace my current VFR very soon.
Hi, I take all your points and agree the Kawasaki does feel that bit more refined etc.. Also I agree it would be more comfortable on a long tour. However I preferred the ride of the Suzuki, personally just found it a bit more "fun". Just personal opinion though 👍 Hope you enjoy your Ninja
You'll replace your VFR? Why? I myself have a 2019 VFR800X Crossrunner, and if I had to change I would take the GSXS-1000GT or Ninja 1000SX too, but I see no point to change. The VTec is so great, and Honda's build quality is top notch on the VFR. I testes the NT1100 but was disappointed with the quality/feel...
@@G91YS How about 30 less horsepower, about 25 Nm less torque and about same weight? And the Vtec is not a plus, way too complicated to adjust valves and very little power improvement, just another Honda tech gimmick! I have VFR1200F and much better motor, just wish it had chain drive.
@@billh4301 Why would you prefer a chain drive?
@@dorstefan 1. You can change the gearing with sprockets, which I do on most of my bikes to gear taller. 2. Much cheaper if repair needed, google bmw motorcycle drive shaft recalls and you will be amazed, even their cars. 3. I have had some powerfull bikes with chain drive, ZX14R, ZX11, ZX12, etc, and not a problem to lube or adjust chain. With newer chains they really don't need much of either unless you are popping wheelies or drag racing. I have an Aprillia 1200 Caponord and have put 1600 miles and the chain hasn't stretched at all, no adjustments yet. 4. The added weight and rear wheel loss of power with a drive shaft.
It is a weekend solo sport touring bike. No electric adjustable windscreen. No shaft drive. No centerstand. Rear passenger pillion limited. Lacks full aero body panels and top box option.
Absolutely what it is good for 👍 Could definitely go on longer tours, but there are better options for that.
Question! I'm getting a Yoshimura slip on for this bike, at a later date what headers would you suggest/would be compatible? Would really love to bring out the full potential of this bad boy.
Hi, nice I think that will sound fantastic! To be totally honest I am not too sure on the specific headers for this bike. I think you would be best off asking a local Kawasaki dealership. They will have better specific knowledge! Thanks and good luck with your ride 👌
Akrapovic already has a full set of headers, and word on the street is that no ECU flash is needed to use them.
@@kalhanratty1 while I appreciate it, that information doesn’t help me, I already have a slip on that’s why I asked the question.
Took one out fir a test ride loved the bike ....engine sounded revvy i was in 5th and 6th gear but sounded like i was in 3rd.I couldn't work out how to get the black screem on all the time
Yup I guess that is the 4 cylinder for you
Nice bike
Absolutely a great ride 👌
What were you using to mount your phone between the bars?
Hi Mark, it is actually a bag designed for bicycles! I got it from a shop called Halfords in the UK. Unfortunately it doesn't have a model number, but they sell it in all Halfords stores in the bicycle department. Fits most motorbikes brilliantly 👍
@@redangrevival thanks mate. I’m in the uk, my last bike came from Blade Swindon. It’s hard work finding a phone mount for the sx. EvoTech do a nice one that mounts via the tank front bolts but they’ve been out of stock for months.
@@markharrison2484 No worries, hope it works for you 👍
My 1998 Kawasaki Concours 1000 cc is way better than those bikes , it has 2 factory hard bags and a 3rd for my helmet and a smooth shaft drive system and a nice tall clear windshield . Has lots of passing power when you need it . Well done Kawasaki ! 👍
👍👍 I must admit I have always liked the looks of the Concours 1000cc! Great to hear that it is still doing well for you and you are enjoying it. I think it also looks more comfortable than these two bike!
Amen brother.
@@redangrevival all u need is a 1000cc or a 900cc Kawasaki they have good power for the highway and are a bullet proof motor !
@@Andrew-vo9ev I have been very impressed with all the Kawasaki's I have ridden. I'm sure I will own one some day 👍
I owned a Kawasaki Bayou 300 ATV and I miss it ! Sold it because I was moving and needed moving money....bummer !
Think you would be pleased with either to be honest. The ZX is better spec’d but that isn’t always what it is about.
Hi, yup true I definitely wouldn't turn down either! Both great bikes, I just found the Suzuki that bit more involving and enjoyable to ride. Just personal preference. Cheers
When I write this, it's December and prices have reached it's lowest time over the year. I live in northern Germany where you can get the Suzuki for 2000 € less than the Kawa. That's a really big difference. :)
I think the Suzuki sounds like a great option for you 👍
I got the chance to check out the GSX-S GT, without the windshield (for some reason) and I felt that the wind "issue" was gone. It felt like the wind on a naked bike. So I think for Sports Touring bikes, just remove incompetent windshield to avoid the wind hitting the helmet or the neck area.
That is interesting, I wonder why it had no windshield!! A good idea 👍
@@redangrevival Oh it was a demo bike that they were assembling so it was not yet complete.
@@ManCannotRide Ah I thought that may be the case 👍
@@redangrevival The wind shield on the GSX-S GT aims the wind directly to my neck. I am 167cm by the way. I was surprised that when the wind shield was not there, the wind drag was sort of dispersed to my whole upper body which feels like similar when I ride a naked upright big bike.
@@ManCannotRide Yup that makes sense I guess. Better to have the wind spread around rather than directed at your neck!!
For me it was mid helmet, but it was strong wind. I personally like the look of the wind screen though.
I bought a 2019 ninja 1000 in December and I think it will be a good touring bike
100% great bike for touring. Premium ride
It's perfect for me kawasaki is the best bike
I've got a 2021 SX with Yoshy end-can cos the oem looks like a long bread bin.
👌 😂 nice I bet it sounds lovely with that end can on!! Haha very true, a long bread bin great description! Cheers
The bigger and more tourer is the gtr but this looks great
Windshield has 3 settings, all the way up for the highway riding.
A few journalists reported that the Ninjas quickshifter/blipper was fairly notchy.
It was good, but I would say the Suzuki's was a bit better/smoother
@@redangrevival Suzuki's supposed to be one of the best as standard on all their bikes.
Is the wind screen more effective at highway speeds on the Kawasaki or the Guzzi V100?
Tricky as it was while ago I rode the Kawasaki! Both have nice clean air flow 👍
@RedAng Revival OK, thanks for the reply. If you were to ride a 10 day, 3,500km tour, which would you rather be on, the Guzzi or the Kawi?
@@749corsa Good question! Kawasaki 👍
he likes that bus lane
Who doesn't!
Think this Kawasaki looks far better than the Suzuki. For me it trumps it on everything except Suzuki's K5 engine which was a gem in the old GSXR 1000. I would rather get an older GSXR 1000 K5 than one of their new GSX-1000GTs. I think it looks ugly compared to the Ninja 1000SX.
Or get a Hayabusa or mint Honda CBR1100 XX Blackbird if you can find one, bu the latter is an old bike now pretty basic old school, no ABS even as a minimum which all new modern bikes have to have. Still a stonking engine though from Honda.
Great review in difficult conditions. The suffering you go through to produce videos for your channel!!! Mind you, I prefer the warmth to the cold though.
Btw Angus you might be interested in what these guys TTS Performance at Silverstone can do with bike engines, predominantly supercharging, but they do all sorts of mods/mapping kits. They look like a great outfit who know what they are doing. A bit pricey may be , but some really high quality engine mods. Perhaps something for your Speedy?
ua-cam.com/video/v9cq084dtQ8/v-deo.html
www.tts-performance.co.uk/product-page/triumph-bonneville-bobber-supercharger-package
Hey Alex, fair enough I get that! Good to each have our different likes and dislikes 👍 I must say my favourite thing about the Suzuki was the engine, such a peach! I know it used to be the norm, but I would struggle to buy a bike without ABS these days, would make me a bit nervous (I know, pathetic!).
Thanks glad you liked the review, haha yup I go through some hard ships to get these reviews out 😉 The main thing is just remembering to concentrate on the road and stay safe as a priority!
O nice thanks I will take a look at them, have been thinking of some performance upgrades for Speedy. Cheers
@@redangrevival thanks for your reply. Probably would never buy either of these new sports tourers but never say never. I have however been on a casual look out for an old GSXR 1000 K5 but have only found really abused ones. Kicking myself because just before I got my Sprint ST1050 in 2014 a dealer in S'ampton was selling two yes two absolutely mint GSXR 1000 K5s in blue, white and red with about 800 miles on each for about 6K which was a bargain. Should have bought one or both as they are like hens teeth now.
Yes the TTS links I sent you is because they do supercharging kits for cruisers Harleys and Triumphs, eg Thruxton R which is the YT video link and also mods for the Bobber/Speedmaster. Check out their website, even better. The quality of their work seems to be outstanding, but of course their costs are not cheap as is always the case if you want quality stuff. They do supercharging kits for Audis as well and other cars.
Take it easy. ATB.
@@alexmorgan3435 👌 Cheers, no worries can't win all the bargins! It to easy to look back in hindsight.
I like this like bike than the new suzuki. Especially the tail section is sleek and much better design than suzuki.
👍 Fair enough I understand that. I guess I was going against the curve a bit picking the Suzuki. I just found it more enjoyable to ride.
Hi I test road both the Suzuki gsxs1000gt and the Kawasaki z1000sx I liked both bikes about the same but i ended up buying the Suzuki as The Suzuki dealer gave me a better trade in price for my old bike.
Hi, yes I agree with you really 👍 They are so similar styled motorcycles. Perhaps the Kawasaki has slightly more premium components, but I enjoyed riding the Suzuki more. I preferred the overall package of the Suzuki.
Sounds to me like you go the right bike 👌
I have just bought a brand new Ninja 1000sx. I moved from a Tracer 9 GT. So why? Well, I agree that from a solo rider point of view, the Suzuki has the edge, but the pillion seat is not overly comfortable - I'm told - and the grab handles are "awkward," and as I have lady friends who like to ride pillion that is an important consideration. Also the touring options on the Suzuki are expensive. I loved the Tracer, but with the new GT+, there seemed little point in changing for another GT (considering future value). I could not justify the extra cost for the GT+ and as I do not like adaptive cruise in the car, I cannot see me enjoying it any more on a bike. Having ridden and reviewed all three, the best all-round package for me was the Ninja 1000sx. It has just had its 600 mile service, and naturally the weather has changed for the worse... significantly.
For sure I get all your points. I suppose it really is just personal preference, as to what you are after. I think the engine in the Suzuki won me over! However the Kawasaki is a great all round package, at a good price as well 👍
im in this conundrum. test drive booked for suzuki and will look for local stock to arrange test drive of ninja , ill only know after that which one suits me
👍 All I say is go in with an open mind
had the same bike was written off only had it for seven months it was a good bike to ride
Sorry to hear that it was written off, I hope no one was hurt! It is a lovely bike, I really like the traditional style cruisers, with a 4 cylinder engine 👍
@@redangrevival no body hurt was hit by another biker was on my way to the north west 200 in northern Ireland
@@yamimk Ok that is good at least! Sorry about the bike.
IMO (apart from the quickshifter) the 1000SX is the better bike in every aspect!
Re the suspension, the GT will also feel much more supple after the 4000 odd miles that this SX has done.
Hi, that is a great point actually!! Thanks thats good to know 👍 Makes the Suzuki even more desirable!
Screen is four position adjustable
Which one you think has more straight line stability at high speeds? gsx or ninja ? Also tell me which gives good feedback from the front end at high speeds.
I think Ninja has more stability, However possibly Suzuki has better feel front end
Let me state first that I love STs and the Ninja 1000 sits in a special place in my heart, having owned an '11, but...
I really wish Kawi would make bikes in other colors than black- so sick of black bikes and Kawi seems married to them. The red/silver highlights are nice but not enough. C'mon, Kawasaki.
I love the new Suzuki however Kawi has 10 years of evolution w/the N1K, plus the adjustable windscreen. The only place I see where the Suzuki prevails (potentially) is in passenger accommodations. The N1K is NOT a 2-up bike, don't care what the ads say, whereas the new Suzuki seems to have addressed that matter a bit better.
👍 A good point on the passenger accommodation, it does seem as iff the Suzuki may have one up on the Kawasaki in this department. I loved riding both bikes, I would say the Kawasaki did feel a bit more premium due to its many years of evolution. However I had a more enjoyable time on the Suzuki! Just personal preference.
Both fantastic traditional "sports tourers".
Which one would you say felt smaller? I’m 5’6 and would prefer the smaller one of the two
I would say the Suzuki felt a bit smaller and more manoeuvrable
Lol about the bull encounter...funny
Haha huge thing! Lucky it’s quick bike 😂
I think the Kawasaki is better in that you can guy a used one for ~£4-5k, at that price its competition is a later Honda CBF1000 or Suzuki Bandit 1250 and it wipes the floor with both! At ~£12.5k it's really down to brand preference more than anything else, Honda NT if you want a DCT or a BMW R1250RS if you want shaft drive. Really interesting that you prefer the wind protection on an adventure bike too, I find whilst the decibel level of wind tends to be higher on a sports tourer the smoother air is much more bearable than the buffetting from an adventure bike, I'm 6'2 with a similar inseam to you though so my head sits much higher above the screen than yours will!
Yes if we are talking second hand that is a very good point! If I where going for a second hand option then it would have to be the Kawasaki. Yes I found the wind clean air but it was very strong! I guess the huge screens on adventure bikes are enough to almost completely cover my upper body.
Cheers
I know they're different class/beasts of bikes, but I'm torn between the Ninja 1000 and the Hayabusa for my next purchase
I have never ridden the Hayabusa, but yup quite different bikes! Can imagine the Hayabusa is a very special riding experience, however personally I would have the 1000SX. More practical and useable for everyday use I think.
Just a random question - in the UK can motorcycles ride in bus lanes? Just a personal opinion but for the spec sheet warriers 140 vs 150 HP . . . in real life both are more than enough for most of us mere mortals
Yes in the UK in most cities you can ride in bus lanes 👍 There are exceptions though!
I agree 140 -150 hp for on the road really is plenty haha. Cheers
We "can" ride on the bus lanes not only in the UK, but the whole world 😂
You omit to mention things the Ninja has that the Suzuki hasn't. 6 axis IMU that gives amongst other things, lean sensitive ABS and traction control. It also has headlights that illuminate both LED lights on dipped and main beams. The Suzuki has the stupid one eyed look. I also believe the Suzuki screen is non adjustable, whereas the Ninja has 4 positions. I'm sure there are others !
Hi yes apologies about that! It was more of a how do they make me feel when riding review, rather than an in depth technical analysis. All good benefits to the Kawasaki, however I would still take the Suzuki. Just found it more enjoyable to ride. Cheers
Suzuki has more advanced quick shifter, maps/apps display integration with phone and costs less with bags installed.
Maybe we can find someone who's willing to crqsh each of these bikes to show us how much of too much speed one needs to be doing to see effect of IMU.
To make point other reviewers have made: for the OEMs it's a design on what to spend money on to try get you to buy. Zook could have included all the things the Kawi has with what it has, but it would have resulted in a more expensive bike than Ninja.
I think what they decided to include makes sense to differentiate. Suzuki is still going for the sport rider it was aimed at with the F, but with a bike better focused to the people in that target group.
@@TheCdubbleyoo Couldn't have put it better myself!! 👍
What year is this Kawi?
2021 model
Whats the price difference between kawa and suzu
. ? :)
Hi, Suzuki £11,779 Kawasaki £11,829 👍
@@redangrevival Thanks for reply . for some reason thought the gap whould be larger . ty again .
Put on a yosh alpha exhaust and the kawi has character and i believe it trailbrakes and corners better than the suzuki. My son just bought a v100 mandelo. Better than both imho. Stunning bike.
Yup the V100 Mandela is a very cool bike 👍
how does it compare to yamaha tracer 9gt?
A very interesting one! Obviously Yamaha more upright riding position, but both bikes very comfortable. The handling on Yamaha is faster and more lively.
Engine nicer on the Kawasaki. But still good on Yamaha!
Wind protection better on Yamaha and better for a pillion.
I would take the Yamaha purely because of the riding position 👍
Well you had a pig endorsement on the Suzuki and it did seem friendlier somehow. My dad had both makes and he preferred Kawasakis.
Haha yup that is very true!! The pig definitely liked the Suzuki so that must mean something. Blimey that bull was huge, haha was going to film there but got a tad scared! Yup they are both brilliant bikes, in this case I just preferred riding the Suzuki a bit more fun 👍
The bull was just being nosy. He wouldn't hurt you and he'd only jump the fence if you had a cow in season with you 😂😂😂😂😂😂
@@lilynorthover8378 😂 fortunately no cows in season on the back of the bike!! Thats good to know he wouldn't hurt me 👍
6-1 and 71 years young. I wonder how I'd fit on this bike for a really long day?
I think you would be better off on an adventure style bike. More comfortable sit up right riding position.
Güzel motor
Great engine 👍
Regardless of how much anyone likes the experience of either, Currently Suzuki is not putting out a product that matches the quality of Kawasaki. New Suzukis look and feel cheap. After seeing the Gsx- 1000 Gt in person, I walked in the dealership ready to buy one and walked out extremely disappointed in the feel, fit and finish of the Suzuki. Suzuki has turned it’s back on the US market.
Fair enough, it is a shame that you didn't feel the quality was up to pair. It is definitely not as premium as the Kawasaki, I didn't find it too much of a difference though. Just personal opinion! Both great bikes, I personally preferred riding the Suzuki. I prefer the GSX engine.
@@redangrevival I don't even know what's on about--- Ninja1000SX I don't have any exp with but I've compared my GSX-S to Z900s and I found the GSX-S to have a more premium fit and finish to those. Diff bikes of course. Suzuki quality is quite good and the engines are way better than the Kawa.
@@englishsteel-nz6im I did prefer the engine in the Suzuki, however on these two specific bikes I thought the quality of the Kawasaki was a bit better!
👍
👍 Cheers
they need to make a R1 version
👌 definitely that would be brilliant!!
How tall are you?
5'9"
I'd sooner have the earlier Z1000SX - nicer looking imo with its dual exhausts
Yup I can understand that, cool looking bike 👍
Ciao bella!
After riding a Concours 14 for 2 years, the Ninja 1000 feels like a 600.
haha I bet it does!! I would love to have a go on one of those 😁
In a good or bad way?
@@kalhanratty1 I absolutely love the Ninja 1000. But I also appreciate anything on two wheels.
Probably because a 636 has almost the same horsepower
@@Josh-cw8by so the 636 has 140 horse? I think not. This thing will put that 636 in the weeds with its torque advantage. And the Concours 14 makes both the 1000 and 636 feel like mopeds with its locomotive engine.
Test rode both the Suzuki GT and Kawasaki SX. In my view neither are suitable as long distance tourers: too much weight on the wrists, poor seats and too short a wheelbase. I make this observation from my current bikes including a GTR1400. In my view Kawasaki need a new model GTR with the 1000SX engine.
👍 Fair enough, I suppose it depends on the individuals build etc... But I tend to agree I would want to do a weeks tour for example (but could be done), definitely better bikes out there for it.
Actually i feel better on this kind of bikes (slight leaned forward) than on adventure bikes (straight position). The straight position just puts too much pressure on my back.
I have it and it takes me 1,5 to 2 hours of constant riding before my ass soar.... and I have to pull over to stretch my legs.
Also, the supposedly more confortable seat available in Kawasaki store didn't help me at all, in the contrary, because the inclination of the seat push you to the tank where the seat in thinner and narrower.
So that make more pressure just behind your balls instead on your ass, which is very uncomfortable quickly...
You certainly can make a move to reposition yourself on the rear side where it's larger but you will slide again along the way to the tank anyway.
Also, the "comfort seat" mean a different padding inside the seat but not more padding in height, which would make an obvious difference.
If I were Kawasaki, i would keep the look of the comfort seat, take the same shape of the basic seat (inclination backward to stay on the larger rear side), add more volume padding and change the padding for a gel instead of foam.
The large windshield looks much better than the original one, and it is more efficient if you know where to push the button (bottom right) to set it before you go...
I recommend to change to touring tires for 15.000 km Michelin (Road 6) endurance after your first 8.000 km, as the basic tires coming with the bike are not that so good.
Unless you plan to do track days with Power GP tires.
Fair enough and thanks for the information from an owners experience 👍 I suppose in regards to comfort it depends on the individual's build etc.. But good to know.
I also agree, think the taller wind shield would be better, especially for touring. Cheers
Forget suzuki the Kawasaki is better in every way and will hold up way ,way, way ,better I know from experience I have been driving bikes for over 50 years🧝⚡
I prefer the Suzuki! Better and more engaging engine in my opinion. Yes the Kawasaki has better build quality and most likely reliability, however Suzuki have a pretty good track record for reliability as well. Each to their own I suppose, but I would take the Suzuki for riding pleasure 👍
@@redangrevival if u look at the metal on both bikes theirs a big difference like the Honda it looks so much like pot metal and if u run bikes for as long and fast as I have u can tell which moter is going to hold up the best in the long run years from now
@@vincentdavidson755 Fair enough, I will take on board your experience!
@@redangrevival with my 99 Harley 1200 s I never had to adjust the belt or bother with the sprokets it's 3 times stronger then the chain and has a tensoner to keep it tight 150,000 mi . It's one tough bike replace the clutch plates once ,and menny tires, but I still like the Kawasaki the most for cross country because they handle great on the freeway and rain and I can run them fast to cover some destance. It's good to ware some patchouli oil and a turquorce stone for added protection if u believe in charms
My spelling is off. The stone is light blue if u get a chance read the book the secret by Rhonda Byrne wanting to get the Kawasaki 1000 sx tour performance for a cross country and menny places
@@vincentdavidson755 👍 Thanks Vincent I will have a look at the book. Now that is a strong Harley with some solid miles on!! Nice one 👌
Sounds like you have a great stable suitable for every occasions. I would LOVE a classic Harley one day. Cheers
😃👍👍👍😃
👌👍👌
Can anyone not use the term creamy smooth, in every review?
If it is a nice inline 4 that term will be there!! 🥴
My FatBob 306kg wet weight!😀👍
Yes Harley on are another level in terms of weight! Love em though 👍
@@redangrevival I find the weight on a cruiser an advantage.
@@robertprosser6856 I know what you mean, makes the bike feel more planted and purposeful!!
You can't go wrong with either, but the SX is better by a hair.
I agree they are both great and the Kawasaki is better for technical specs. However I personally did enjoy the Suzuki more!
Kawasaki needs to buy some new paint other than black and green.
👌 haha couldn’t agree more!
Sorry but did he just kept praising Kawasaki during the whole video and then settled for Suzuki? I like Suzuki winning here but I thought he was going to pick Kawasaki because of all the praises.
The Kawasaki is a great bike, just my personal opinion I prefer the Suzuki to ride. More fun
Still want one unfortunately no here has any
Its a great motorcycle, just love the traditional style sports tourers. Can you not find any on the market?
"So much torque, espiecially this Kawasaki" - difference is 5 Nm vs Suzuki, 100% you will not even feel the difference !
I am not too sure! The Kawasaki does feel nicer in the mid range, where as the Suzuki has a peekier engine. I prefer the Suzuki engine anyway. Perhaps this is down to the refinement of the Kawasaki's engine and not the extra torque. Either way there is a difference.
I did not like the way it looked when I saw it in person. It looked cheap and thrown together. The front looks big and the back is skinny. I saw it without the side bags. It looks sought of like a dragon fly to me. I don't see it as a high-end road performance bike. The 636 and 10r are top notch but I don't feel this bike is in that class.
In my opinion it is all about the engine with this bike, and the Suzuki S1000GT! The large plastic fairing is always hard to make look and feel premium, in my opinion. The 10r of course is more premium but comes at a cost, and arguably less practical than the 1000SX.
This bike rides better than it looks 👍
@@redangrevival Yes, I think its a case of don't judge a book by its cover. Unfortunately it's impossible to test ride one where I live.
@@blackspades0000 Yes absolutely, well said 👍 That is a shame, they are really great to ride!
I like the look of the z1000sx old an new and old I wouldn't buy a kawasaki because I've bought a few damaged bike online and from minor crashes with a few scratches the crank cases break and damage the engine block it happened twice with a z1000sx and zx14r likely I got a refund
Sounds like you have had a few bad experiences with Kawasaki's! Understandably enough to put you off. Possibly just bad luck, but I understand your view point. I personally found the Suzuki just that bit more fun to ride. Cheers
I own a 2021 model ninja 1000sx and love every bit of it. I am part of a huge motorcycle group but I could see that suzuki got more fans than Kawasaki. Suzuki got a better aesthetics, and more sportier engine character, apart from that, all other comparison, Kawasaki slightly doing better.
Yes I agree, I think overall the Kawasaki is the better bike. However I found the Suzuki more fun to ride
I love the Ninjas but the sattle bags is a huge turn off for me when it comes to crochrockets.
👍 fair enough. I suppose you can always take them off though if you want!
Good thing most of the time you can buy the bike completely without them.