The MAM Journals - Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX . First Impressions.
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- Опубліковано 28 тра 2024
- As an existing and happy Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT owner, I was obviously drawn to the recent announcement of the new GX "crossover" . Suzuki describe it as "a new model that represents the brand's vision of what a luxury crossover motorcycle should offer"
So... what did I think it crossed over with? Is this an upright touring bike with a sports bike engine or a sports bike, that can tour? What did I think of the new integrated active damping and electronic suspension?
After a brief introduction I explore the technical specifications, before going for a ride and then concluding with my "First Impressions". For those less interested in technical specifications please feel free to skip to the riding section. The video is designed to facilitate this , and still make some sense!
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What a very sincere review sir 😀💪💪💪.. lm also interested in Suzuki bike these days because of the built quality and competitive pricing.. l think this would be the best option
Lots of great bikes out there . Pick the one that suits YOU , the best . Have fun 👍
I have 3 Gsxr Suzuki's & a few in the past.. looking at the gx for my last till my riding days are done.. they've always been exceptional value for $ & reliable as the sun rising.. & generally look good too
I always look forward to your presentations Michael and enjoy them no end. Never find them boring in the least and the half an hour or so always goes by in a flash. For me you’re the two wheeled answer to Harry Metcalfe and I’m very much looking forward to the new series in March.
Thank you Chris . Don’t think I hold a candle to Harry but I appreciate the compliment👍
Always enjoy the way this chap does the reviews
Suzuki is doing Suzuki things. Making great bikes. 😊😊
I was pleased that it rides like a Suzuki sports bike ….👍
Thank you very much for the wonderful presentation !!!!!!
Suzuki gearboxes have always been the best, since I started riding in 1979.
As you rightly say , Suzuki have had a reputation for good gearboxes , for many years . I do like to keep trying other bikes though .. just in case 👍
So true. I had a TC90 around '74. It had a nifty lever you could kick with your left foot to select a low-speed gear ratio or a high-speed ratio. Wonderful trick for toggling between trial or road riding. No sure why the idea never carried forward.
@@michaelmam perhaps it's a gen thing.. your age same as me.. good report thanks 🇳🇿🇳🇿.. you missed.. the paniers.. the top box was right there on the floor 🤧
@@terrellgarren7125 ts90, ts185, t250, z1r, ss900 was me.. Sz always slick boxes
@@Errol.C-nz Didn’t miss them , just choose not to talk about them but wanted to show them so people could see they are the same as the GT , which I have covered previously . That was actually a pannier from my bike .. 👍
Another informative and thorough review again Michael, thank you.
Thank you for the feedback . Appreciate it 👍
Thanks Michael - great video. I thought I did understand the 6 axis IMU, but your simple explanation was brilliant and welcome.
Glad it was helpful! I actually only describe 3 of the 6 , pitch , roll and Yaw .. measured by the gyroscope , the other 3 are measured by the accelerometer .. which measures thrust , heave and sway .. one for another day although I might have covered it in one of my Gen 3 Hayabusa videos . Amazing levels of technology today when you think what we both started on ! Hope to catch up at the end if the month 👍
As always, a fine review. 👍 Cheers,
Thank you 👍
I have the GT and at 5' 7" it's perfect for me .. low seat, lower centre of gravity not top heavy ..For me it's got to be about feeling confident...
I will be 67 in May... been riding 51 years..
Thank you so much for your interesting and professional channel.
I am really pleased with our GT . So easy to ride . .. great bikes 👍
I’m looking forward to watching this Mike, got to walk the dogs then make a coffee, brilliant! I really enjoy your reviews thanks in advance!
Enjoy the walk 😂
A gentleman and a knowledgeable one. Thank you, sir, for the excellent review.
Thank you . Makes it easier to do a good review , when it is a good bike . 👍
Subscribed! I really appreciated your very thorough review from just a few hours on the bike. It’s refreshing to watch somebody who is calm and obviously has experience riding very different bikes but who manages to convey without histrionics the sensations that really interest prospective buyers. You ask yourself the question “would I swap my GT for one?”, would you mind give us an answer if you allow me to slightly rephrase your question: “would you choose this over the GT if you didn’t have the GT and you were in the market for a sport-tourer?”. I’m a very satisfied owner of a ‘20 Ninja 1000sx and I’m scanning the market for when I’ll eventually change bike in a couple of years. I use my bike for sporty weekend rides with mates and for 10-14 days holidays to the Mediterranean covering around 5000 km. I’m 62 years old and although I keep fit and the Ninja’s comfort has been sufficient to me, I tell myself that my next bike should be a tad more relaxed in the ergonomics’ department. I tried the XR but was underwhelmed by the torque on offer compaired to the Kawasaki engine and being 170cm (5’7”) “tall” I found the XR to tall (there’s the possibility of getting a factory lowered suspension but I’m sceptical). Cheers
You ask some great questions there Carlos ! I will try and answer them logically . Firstly I use the GT in the same way you appear to use your current bike . IE part sports bike and part tourer . The later role is invariably two up and being 5’8 it is important to me that I have good foot contact to balance the weight ,particularly on adverse cambers . It was one of the reasons I choose the GT over the 22 model year Kawasaki , which is slightly taller than your current bike . This leads on to my next “answer” . As I mentioned in the video I would need to ride the GX two up to check the contact point and balance to ensure we both felt happy . Solo I would be more than happy with the GX because although , on paper the 845 seat is tall , with the electronic preload system and clear leg route to ground it is fine. The improved ergonomics, seat and technology would sway me .
If you are planning to change in a couple of years it may well be that both the GX and GT have the new technology and the seats are interchangeable . At that point you could have the bike that fits YOU , best ? Hope this helps 👍
@@michaelmam Thanks for your answer, you got it right, part sports bike and part tourer but only solo up in my case. It would be a good proposition if the Ninja (or the GT for that matter) would be fitted with semiactive suspension or that Kawasaki decided to graft the Ninja’s powerplant into the Versys…
Bikes now are a different level and loved your review
Thanks Danny . Yes they are at a different level . Technology that was unimaginable when I bought my first bike..
Great review Michael.
Thank you Paul . Good of you to comment. 👍
I will keep my 2021 versys 1000s still does the main points better than everything else in this class. Very detailed tremendous video really enjoyed with a cuppa.
versys 1000 must be a wonderful bike, the only thing i am concerned is the weight and size while driving in the city.
A friend has a Versys and has kindly ( foolishly?) offered to let me borrow it to review . Looking forward to it 👍
Love this bike. I currently have a Honda NC750x DCT and the 1st thing I changed were the awful Dunlop OE tyres. It transformed the bike. Thinking of upgrading to this very smart Suzuki.
Thanks for commenting . Try the GX . It might be the one 👍
Can I ask what tyres you went with Kevin ?
@@Maverick-moto Metzler roadtec 01
@@kevinf-b5065 Cheers Kevin. Something that is of particular interest to me because of my increasingly delicate lower back;
do you find the Roadtecs give you any noticeable improvement in ride comfort?
@@Maverick-moto I had the suspension fettled at the same time so can't directly compare, but the wet and slippery grip improved greatly
Heroic levels of manual reading and button pressing, well done Michael, top review 👍
😂 . The ability to personalise some of these bikes to suit your own riding style is remarkable . The range of settings is so broad that you almost get two bikes for the price of one 🤔 Takes a bit of faffing around to get familiar with it but personally, I find it very useful particularly on bikes that you can ride like a sports bike or tour , two up . Clever stuff ..
Thanks for another great bike review.
Thank you . Glad you enjoyed it . 👍
@@michaelmam picking up my Gold Star on Friday from Kings following your review!!
@@davidprescott8469 Fantastic . Hope you enjoy it . Let it warm up for a minute or so in this weather !
@@michaelmam Hope so. Thanks for the tip, I am sure Steve will give me all the lowdown!
@@davidprescott8469 Steve and the team , are very good . 👍
Great review!
Thank you 👍
What an absolutely amazing motorbike 🏍.... just subscribed .... excellent review...I turn 50 this year I haven't been on a motorbike for 30 years... I'm getting a bike 🏍 for my birthday... not ss fast as this 1 but doing lots of research....great channel safe journeys
Hello Michael, thank you very much for an excellent review of this new Suzuki , extremely informative and helpful, enjoyed it so much I subscribe to your channel and very much looking forward to seeing more.
Thanks Dean
Thank you Dean . Glad you enjoyed it ! New series starts in March but there are already 70 plus videos launched so far and you might enjoy some of those as well . Appreciate your taking the time to watch , comment and subscribe👍
A well laid out assessment of this newest Suzuki…I greatly appreciate your insights & uncompromising candor👍…You possess a unique blend of “personability”, professionalism, & proficiency in your approach-5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟from me❗️🤠…and YES, I will be sauntering on down to my local Suzuki dealer to take a serious look at a purchase🏍️
Thank you ! Very generous comment .
I am lucky enough to borrow bikes from Kings Two Wheel Centre in Oxford and they have always been very supportive of me “ calling it , as I see it” and help me get my facts right with Spec and technology .
Have fun on the test ride 👍
Thank you Michael, great review. You are the definition of a regular guy with a strong technical understanding of the dynamics at work. I appreciate you approach to a review. I want to throw in a topic that I think is often over looked, the numbers. In a recent comparison with the Moto Guzzi Mondelo the HP and Torque graphs made little sense to me, they did not cross at 5252 rpm. When I compare this four cylinder with the V-strom twin they both have about the same torque at the 5252 mark, but the gsx runs to way higher rpm producing the more scintillating performance when needed/wanted without sacraficeing the bottom. Yet I find constant references to the more useful torque down low in the v-twins. On paper its not there, the way the power is delivered on the v-twins seems to amplify its value. A solid discussion around motor and numbers would be fun done by you. One final comment, I had a 1997 1200 Bandit, jet kit, opened up air box, yosh pipe, upgraded suspension. Torque was 80 ft lbs at 4,000 rpm, amazing bike to ride and came to the conclusion that a 4 can deliver the power/torque of a twin when tuned right and with the ideal design of valve timing.
Thank you . I am certainly no engineer but have enough riding experience to feel the differences in power/torque and when it delivers .
It is interesting how straight 4 power delivery has changed over the years . Never too sure whether it is a deliberate design approach or the consequence of fuel injection and emission control . Modern straight 4’s run much leaner in the early revs than they did in the past . My ZRX 1200 ( carbs) pulls like a train . My Z900RS needs revs to get it interested . I will reflect on your comment and see if I can think of ways to factor it into my reviews without making it too technical .
Thanks for watching and taking the time to express your views . 👍
Excellent review....I love your work. Such great reviews...well done. Thank You. I had a brand new GS-1150E back in 1985. That engine was bullet proof, it was only a five speed though. It became the Bandit engine for decades. So this bike has my interest. The ergo look perfect for long distance high speed commutes. :-)
Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for commenting . I hadn’t thought about long distance commuting but can see your point . Great vision , comfortable , filters really well , easy in traffic , goes when you ask .. 🤔👍
I find this GX quite interesting. Japan build quality and reliability, maybe not as espectacular as the XR from Bayern, but I would feel more confident with this one in terms of long term ownership...
I think the Suzuki will be less money to service but I have had a few BMW’s ( still have 2) and they have been very reliable , as have my Suzuki’s … . The XR is a “weapon” but feels a bigger , taller bike than the GX , which I personally found easier . Rider size plays a part ..👍
Really useful,thank you.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for letting me know 👍
A great review sir, very informative, I like the almost everything about this bike and it was good to hear your thoughts on it, not being a paid journo on a launch and riding in the UK in the winter months makes your review more relevant to me, the seat height was the only concern for me, being almost 5'9, so again it was nice to hear your thoughts and being similar height its definitely, I'm glad UA-cam recommended your video. Do you think you could get 200 miles out of the tank, sitting on the motorway getting to destinations. Great review and its a subscribe from me.
Glad you enjoyed it and found it useful . Thank you for subscribing.
It is a 19 litre tank or 4.17 imperial gallons. I averaged 45mpg so in theory , 188 is your lot .., which ties in with our normal 170 and stop approach .. 👍
Great vid and beautiful bike I'm drooling over . One note : the 6axis IMU is a traditional 3 axis IMU in the way you explained but also an accelerometer that measure acceleration in three axes (x, y, and z).
Thank you 👍 really appreciate the comment .
Love that miniature Avro Vulcan or the VX770 prototype.
vulcan 👍
Great overview. And after having the tach on my BMW, would love to see it offered on the GT as an option package.
Once you have owned a bike with electronic damping, it becomes part of the must have list. Along with the cruise, quicknshifer and all of the IMI supported tech like lean sensitive ABS and traction control.
Personally , I hope that the next GT model upgrade includes all the tec . I have fitted Nitrons on my GT but really like the GX set up . Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 👍
I love my GSX GT, I was looking forward to getting your thoughts on this variant…
Had the standard dunlops on my 2015 gsxs1000 and when I finally changed them it was a revelation.
I took them off my GT at 300 miles … after the first heavy rain .. 😂
Yup. Switched to Michel Road 6's for my GSX S1000 GT and man, what a difference!
Great in depth review, youve anwsered all the questions i had post Portugal release, i also echo your thoughts on the BMW XR, which is my current ride, the XR for me has become way to aggressive its essentilly a detuned RR, i like the thought of having the power but as you say you have to find it, once again thanks.
Thank you . Glad you found it useful 👍 I do like the XR . Great bike . The GX/GT power is definitely more linear . Appreciate the comment !
Nice bike looks great.
Obrigado. It was a great review. It's a little bit offbudget for me but it's a interesting one. I'm swapping my f800st but probably I'll go for a v85tt. Cheers, ride safe and hope to hear from you soon 👍 in Portugal...
Wonderful analysis. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this compared to your GS1250. Subscribed.
Thank you . The GT and the GS are the two bikes I ride the most . If I go with the new GX , it will be an interesting comparison now that Suzuki have upgraded the suspension and electronics and BMW launched a new 1300 .. 🤔
@@michaelmam That hideous front end on the 1300 stops me in my tracks every time and can't look beyond to give that bike more than a cursory glance. The GX I find to be one of the more attractive bikes in the segment along with the reimagined Stelvio.
@@thekenthouse6428I respect that . Looks are subjective of course but if you don’t like them , it is entirely your choice . Personally I prefer the new GS looks to my 1250 but look forward to trying one .
I like the looks of the GX too . To my eye it is nicely balanced . A lot of good bikes out there today 👍
Great video. Information on specs is something we can look up. I much prefer the reviewers opinion on the bike.
👍
Thanks Rich . I know some like the specs and explanation of what they mean , but others like to go straight to reviews opinion . I try to cover both but in a way you can skip it 👍
For a year round rider, look into heated gear! It’s life changing! Plus it can go on any bike since you’re wearing it vs holding on to a handlebar . Gerbing is my go to and works brilliantly
Good call . I am thinking about gear at the moment as some of my stuff is towards the end . Sounds like a bit of fun as well 👍
Great review
Portugal has some great roads, if you need help on picking some out let me know. Been here 2 years and but about 16k on my bike. Safe travels.
Thank you Antonio . We really enjoyed Portugal last year . Great roads and felt very welcome . I may take you up on your kind offer 👍
Michael Great review!
This bike is going to sell it looks great!!
Does it rev less on the highway than your GT?
Thanks!!
How are you ?
Same gearing as the GT by the feel of it …
I am good thanks!@@michaelmam
Great in depth review
I can't decide between this or a V Strom 1050?
Like you I'm a lover of the Blue
Same here. I love the style of the GX but I would miss the power delivery and 19" front wheel of the V-Twin. I like the 150HP of the GX but I don't live in the 6K+ RPM world. The price point is a little high as well. I'll stick with my 1050XT.
I am 99% going for the V Strom 1050 and will keep my GSX1250FA as my inline four.@@terrellgarren7125
Thank you for yet another thorough review Michael! I purchased a 2023 model GSXS1000GT last year and I'm still looking for a decent rear rack to mount my Shad case on. Did you happen to notice if the rear rack on the GX looked like it could be mounted on your GT (same rear sub frame perhaps..) by any chance?
I think it can but it priced up at just over £500 so quite an expensive option ? Glad you enjoyed the review. Just back from a tour to Spain and Portugal on my GT , two up . Fantastic bikes . Mountain or motorway 👍
Many thanks for the excellent review. One quick question, I had the GSX S750 (the naked Gixxer) and the only thing I didnt liked was the "metallic" vibrations of the engine at certain speeds. You mentioned something about vibrations, could you elaborate? My hands used to get this tingling feeling after riding a bit on the 750. Many thanks
Sure . Happy to help .
All engines vibrate of course . It is a question of , at what frequency . This engine is a buzzy , straight 4 and you can feel a buzz at 5000 revs , which is 70mph . I have actually just finished a 2300 mile tour of Spain and Portugal on my GT ( same engine) and I actually found it easier than last year . I tend to increase revs slightly every now and again to change the frequency and use cruise control extensively when on those sort of roads and speeds . I also remind myself not to tense up and hold the bars too hard . 🤦 😂 It all helps . I was very comfortable on the tour and my hands are not great ..
Really enjoyed your review, I did 30 miles on a GX yesterday and to be honest it was a better fit for me than my GT. The A mode feels much more agressive on my GT, maybe I felt more in control with the upright riding position. The mirrors on the GX were much better for me than the GT. My conclusion was I've traded my GT for the GX model.
Great . Fit is important ! Both very good bikes . Have fun 👍
Another excellent review. I'm looking at the gx from a slightly different perspective to you, I have a 2021 s1000xr. I was initially very excited about the idea of the gx, as I've always owned suzukis. The xr is a fantastic capable bike but as you mentioned needs a bit of revs to get going, I was hoping the gx with it slightly less top end power would be like older suzukis with loads of grunt down low. But from your review and other reviews seems to be lacking from the gt also..... joys of euro 5 bikes by the looks of things. unfortunately because we don't get to test ride bikes here in Ireland and that suzuki Ireland decided to price the gx fully kitted at over 20k euros, I think I'll be keeping the xr a little longer.
Thanks for commenting . Shame you can’t get test rides . I am always surprised in how many countries you can’t . People complain about dealers over here but sometimes we forget how lucky we are !
The GX/GT engine is very flexible . 30 mph in 6th is easy so It isn’t a bike you need to “dance” on the gearbox all the time but if you want to crack on , you need revs . I like the engine . Easy going but sports bike fast when you ask .. and howls like a banshee 😂 ( appropriate for Ireland)
I rate the XR too though . Both great bikes .
I must say that one thing I cannot do when looking at this bike is compare it to an S1000XR, simply due to the enormous price difference (here in the Netherlands at least). The BMW's base price with no extras added is 28% more expensive than the base Suzuki, when you start adding extras things just get so much worse.
In my opinion, this bike could only be compared to the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (on mainland Europe at least) perhaps also a 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT
A fair comment Bernard . I tend to compare bikes with ones I have also ridden rather than price point and as an amateur UA-camr have less access to all the brands than the professional journalists . Hard for me to compare it to the Yamaha and Triumph as I haven’t ridden them . If I get the chance , I will .
I also think most of us are experienced people and like you , can work out price differentials and factor them in . I have actually already met 2 XR owners who were considering the GX because it is a similar sort of bike 👍 Thanks for the comment .
@@michaelmam completely understand, but perhaps I fall in the younger demographic of yours (sub 40) and we are more concerned with 5000 euros up or down than some of the happily retired viewers 😅
Any case, it would be awesome if you could get your hands on the Triumph! 🤞
Love to see your comparison of this to the 1000sx ninja.
I was surprised that Kawasaki didn’t launch a 24 upgrade . A good bike . Nice torque , smooth and quiet but 10ps behind the Suzuki and I think , still on manually adjusted suspension . I considered the SX when I bought the GT as I preferred the Suzuki . If it is still the same bike , the GX will be “better” in a number of ways . Hopefully I can get hold of a new model when it eventually arrives but Kawasaki , certainly in the UK , are not active in the UA-cam area .
Not my type of bike these days but still watched your video. All that tec completely baffles me and I admit I would be MAD and very SAD to buy such a bike not to mention its price. Got to say for me, less is definitely more.
Great comment 😂
Another great review...thank you! Still interested to know why there are no Triumphs being tested/ in the shed. Not trying to pry but I do like a good scandal
😂 no scandal . Sorry . If I can find a Triumph dealer willing to lend me bikes long enough to make a balanced review , I will make them 👍
Nice review! My question is this: in terms of comfort, how does the gsx score compared to the vstrom 1050? Thanks in advance!
Very different bikes and idea … adventure tourer v sports tourer . My view , an opinion and not “advice is that the VStrom feels bigger and is a softer , more gentle ride . The GX is upright and comfortable but remains a sports bike . More vibrations and more edge .. if you get a chance , try both ! Have fun .
Thanks for the review Michael! I'm looking at this bike and the 24 S1000XR. If you were my hight 6'2" would prefer the XR ? Also, which bike do you think has most uncomfortable vibes ?
Hi Kevy . I am never sure that I am qualified to offer advice but happy to voice an opinion .. Personally I thought on paper, that the XR was a perfect bike for me . Great raucous engine , good sat nav integration , quality luggage and lots of electronics, which I like . In reality it is just too tall for me and carries its weight higher than the GT . I wouldn’t feel secure , two up on an adverse camber . Dependent on your leg length you might actually prefer the XR ?
In terms of vibration , to be frank , they are both buzzy straight fours . I change the frequency of the buzz by changing gear and altering cruising speed . I would do that on both bikes . The XR has more power and torque and probably has a little more vibration as well ? My recommendation is try both and see what you think would suit you the best . The Suzuki is a bit easier going but both are really good bikes . Hope this helps👍
Thank you on this wonderful review. So would that be a bike you chose to go around on the trip for two weeks or you rather chose for example new versys 1000 with a fun factor included also.
Im my opinion the Suzuki is more dynamic / sportier / faster but not as comfortable as a well equipped Versys . Both will tour well so it will be down to personal preference ?
@@michaelmam thank you,can t wait to put my hands on that gx,still not available in us
@@michaelmamhow does it perform in not so smooth road or little bit of off road?
@@CuteNaRider we don’t really have dirt roads near me and it is not something I look to test . It is not an off road bike but with different tyres would probably be ok on dirt tracks 🤔 For me , It is a road bike at heart , with adventure style height and riding position ..
I ordered and finally received a GSX-S 1000GT+ in mid 2022. Unlike the rave reviews, I was very disappointed and kept looking. I think the bike was superb but just didn't fit me for the ergos (6'2", 255lb/188cm, 115kg). I found the positioning to be more aggressive than expected and I would never have been able to do 300+ miles/day on the twisties.
All of that said, I would DEFINITELY give this version a look as it appears to have a more upright rider position and all of the excllent features of the S-1000GT.
(if only I didn't LOVE my Tiger1200 so much!!)
Thanks for commenting William . We bought the GT because , as you rightly say , it is actually quite a small bike . We can do about 220 a day and solo , I have done 280 but for us , that is far enough . If I wanted to do further I would probably use my more upright BMW GS . The GX is a bigger and more upright bike and I think would suit some taller riders better than the GT . Never tried the Triumph but good to hear you like it 👍
Good morning, as usual a comprehensive review and very informative. Like you I have a GSX-S100GT. My major issue with it [ otherwise a really good bike ] is the screen which seems to direct a blade of air at my upper chest/neck. And unlike the GX it is not adjustable. Have you experienced this and have you any thoughts on it? Suzuki offer a touring screen which is 70mm higher and Puig do one that is 80mm higher than standard. But not sure this will make a lot of difference. Any thoughts?
I have the touring screen as well . It moved the wind around but didn’t eliminate it . Speaking to people who have fitted the puig , the feedback was positive . 👍
Thank you - much appreciated
Good detailed video. One correction: the integrated master cylinder is radial, which is unusual.
Thank you . Didn’t pick up that .
I have just checked the specifications … I think it is standard but may be wrong 🤔😂
Nissin catalog: img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/a7e85d62-de0e-4f09-b83f-ce821b7a4d8d/2R%20Nissin%20Brake%20Catalogue%20(2023ver)%20.pdf
search for the phrase: Nissin radial brake master cylinders (integrated tank)
I may have missed you mention it but does the GX have Hill Hold Control ?
No . I suspect it is lurking in the electronics somewhere but you can’t activate it . They have it on the gen 3 Hayabusa .. hence my suspicion ..
Hi Michael - I own a GT and a V Strom 1050. I have also upgraded to Nitron Rear Shock which is a night and day difference - Wind Protection on the 1050 Is Very Good.
On the GT no matter what screen I use Wind noise is Extreme and is becoming a deal breaker. Is the wind protection/noise 0n the GX noticeably better than the GT or about the same?
Very different riding position on the GX . It certainly wasn’t “quiet” but is different . If you have a chance , try one ?
she's so beautiful! 💙
What a wonderful review sir! I have a bandit 1250s for about 15 years now and looking for a replacement, that would give me the same joy and even more than the bandit did. I tried tracer 9 GT and got dissapointed by the lack og bottom torgue, tried africa and found it too top heavy and not fast enough. I wonder if this bike suits my needs. Do you believe it would be a good replacement or I will have to rev it too high to get some joy?
The 1250S has amazing torque and from memory , at less than 4000 revs ? The GX /GT has 50 ps more and is a fast bike . You will have to go up the revs to find the power but it is linear . I like the way the engine delivers its power but it isn’t a “muscle” bike . If you get a chance , try one … it will be different but you might like it 👍
@@michaelmamThank you for this clear, fast and honest answer sir. I am also waiting to try the new Stelvio as well (along with the GX). As you can tell , i am looking for a more upstanding bike that has some panch in the engine :)
@@gerokatserosThe most punchy bike I have is actually a BMW R1250 GS . Loved and hated in equal measure , with 143 nm of torque ( I think you have 108 ?) it pulls like a train from low revs …
@@michaelmamYes , 108Nm it is , but comes from 3500 rpm!!! No need to go above 5000 rpm, just change gear. And also it is such a smooth engine! GS 1250 is wonderful but too expensive for me.
I have in my stable a gsx1000f so the same engine and I think if you try one you will find the engine has plenty of torque the real banzai charge is at the top end but the mid range is as good as my old bandit 1200 , leave it in top and roll on to pass cars effortlessly.Also as with all the Suzuki's I've owed 100% reliable and cheap as chips to run
I'm curious about the rider triangle. I'm about 187 cm tall so the height isn't a problem but how does compare to the the 1050 v strom.
I last rode a 1050 about 11 months ago . I have ridden a lot since then and can’t remember the dimensions accurately . I do recall that I found the 1050 particularly tall though . More so than the GX …
Not sure where you are based but most UK dealers will have a 1050 and the GT demonstrator in the showroom . It might be easier to go and sit on them both ? The dimensions on the specification sheets don’t always give the same sense that the bikes do . Sorry I can’t be more helpful ..
Great review Mike this bike is already getting under my skin by proxy. I will definitely get a test ride on it in the spring, it seems to me a good way to go after the GSX-8S which I love. The idea of covering greater distances in comfort is appealing. I would like to test it back to back with the GT to see which is the more natural fit for my style of riding, must admit I am a little bit intimidated by the height of the GX but that would probably melt away after a few miles. Do you think it’s too much power after a GSX-8S as first bike? I get the impression from your review it’s very nicely judged, accessible but not too fast in every day riding. Until you want it to be which must be the best of all worlds.
Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for commenting . I really like the 8S . A great bike .
In terms of suitability I never feel qualified enough to offer “ advice” but I do find the progressive delivery of the GX/GT engine and clutch make it a very easy bike to ride . You are not at peak torque until 9500 revs . Try one ? It may be the one 👍
@@michaelmam thanks for replying! It’s good to get the low down on all the settings and electronics on the GX, very informative as always but more to cover on this one. I will test ride both, I am very happy with the 8S, I got it in black like the one you reviewed, I also like the look of the GX in black. Thanks again.
@@robmance1611 Very Welcome . 👍
I own a current 06 Vstrom 650 love it. debating to get the Vstrom 800RE or the GSX-S1000GX ?
Nice problem to have 😂 Try both and have fun 👍
With a RE currently advertised under £9k, £5Grand is a big decision?
Tracer 9?
Is this not just the new Bandit 1200? All-rounder bike with an old sport bike engine? Sure it's a bit taller and has more tech but that's just what a modern bike is.
but the bandit was tuned to 98hp with huge torgue in low rpm ... it is not the same bike
I agree . Very different style and purpose .....
How about the knee angle ? Is it comfortable for longer rides ?
It was ok for me . Didn’t think it was hugely different from my GT which suggests to me that much of the additional height is the extra suspension travel .
This is Yamaha Tracer 900GT version rival in my own opinion based on it's Design language and also power that is a little bit higher than Tracer
👍 A few people have mentioned that they think the Tracer GT is a good comparison . I haven’t ridden one , but will try to ..
@@michaelmam I feel even the design language is quite similar to that of Tracer 9Gt and 9GT+.
Please put some few miles on one unit then give your feedback as usual 👏
I will stick with my 1250s.
We are lucky . So many good bikes to chose from 👍
Is there any chance you are going to test the GX premium seat with your wife? I made understand the premium seat is similar as a comfort seat for other motorcycle brands.
I am not sure if my local dealer has one in stock yet , but I will ask 👍
Great review Michael. Love those winter road shots Could you also cover getting on and off not just seat height. The high back ends to these bike makes leg over style difficult for me. I have just brought a 800cc Adventure bike. Seat height 825mm but it feels much larger than that to get on.
Thanks Richard . I will try and include the occasional mount / dismount in “height sensitive “ reviews 👍
Not enough low-down shove. I'd rather have my Buell Ulysses. Same style of bike, albeit a twin. At least the Suzuki won't suffer from broken drive belts.
Thoughtful, informative review. Nick
The torque on some twins is remarkable . One thing I like about my BMW R1250 GS , a bike that divides opinion , is the 143 nm of torque . 👍
@@michaelmam 143 NM sounds fantastic.
Given that they are priced equally, which one would you pick: the Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX+ or the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+
A good and fair , question . Sadly one I can’t answer properly as I haven’t ridden a 9 .. one for the list ! 👍
Nice review but I get the feeling the ĢT is the better bike. For a smoother engine and more comfort I'd take the Kawasaki Z1000SX.
For some the GT is the bike , others will appreciate the spacious riding position and technology of the GX . I thought the SX was smoother but slightly less exciting ( 10hp down) and most importantly for my choice , just a bit too tall for me … 👍
👍🏻
We’re talking about a crossover two sport bike it’s a sporty sport touring bike it has bags as a taller windshield and it has a luggage rack but the seat is a sport bike seat the size of the bike is like a sport bike that’s what they mean by crossover I have looked at this bike
I agree . That is how I conclude the video . It is mostly sports bike , with more space and luggage capacity . Some “crossovers” are more neutral in their split ..
I take delivery of my GX in a week or so .. 👍
Have fun 👍
How is it working?
Poem: If. If the gt had the electronics of the gx...if it had the active suspensions of the gx...if it had the saddles of the gx...if it had the rear grill of the gx (such that you do not have to fit a bulky givi kit)...plus a radial master front cylinder and maybe a couple of comfy clip-ons...it would be the perfect bike! 😊 But nobody is perfect...
😂 I so know what you mean
I wonder if the seats are swappable
Fronts definitely are , I tried 😂… should have tried the rear as well 🤦
Can you fit a top box to it?
Yes . Suzuki don’t supply one but aftermarket suppliers do and the rack on the back has mounting holes 👍
Eu quero esta moto
They are good ..!
I found the foot pegs too high on the GX.
Personal question .. apologies . What is your inside leg measurement ?
@@michaelmam 32"
@@lold6130 umm .. not particularly long . If you like the GX there might be ways to increase leg room by increasing seat height / lowering peg height ? I think the BMW XR has more room and possibly the M10, if you are looking for upright sports tourer with a straight four ?
this or bmw r1300gs? pretty much the same price.
I suspect when you actually spec up a R1300GS for touring , it will be significantly more money . Both good bikes ..
@@michaelmam the base price here is just 2k more and i wouldnt mind a 10k difference. i just dont like to spend extra on the BMW if there is a cheaper alternative that is just as good. i dont need all those fancy electronics (tho nice to have). so it would be extremely helpful to hear ur opinion on how they compare neck to neck as a daily commuter. will probably live with the purchase for the rest of my life if longevity allows.
Both have adventure tourer riding positions so, for me , are comfortable. The GX is has a sportier feel to the engine . Not entirely sure I would consider either as “ commuter” bikes but I guess it depends on what you mean by that . If you get a chance , try both . Ultimately it is only your opinion that matters 👍
@@pecopeco5907
IMO the most important things to consider here are
(1) Reliability
(2) Engine characteristics
(1) is simple, Suzuki has better reliability. They're very well made and has very low error rates. Significantly lower than BMW, which sits far below the top four Japanese brands.
(2) is a lot trickier. An inline four vs a boxer has totally different characteristics, and impacts the riding experience A LOT.
The Suzuki is geared very tall in 1st. If you want to access its full power, you need to spool it up. You basically get to access its full power when accelerating, and after that you're chilling in higher gears where it will be very quiet. Certaintly not lacking in power at all, the torque curve is quite fat for an inline four. But you're not getting the full 152hp for most of your riding. IMO for spirited riding, this is great. Its also very, very smooth and comfortable at lower speeds.
The BMW on the other hand makes its peak power significantly earlier. Has a fatter torque curve. Will make its signature noise even at lower rev ranges - not quiet and smooth in the way the Suzuki is. If you prefer to have close to peak torque on tap most of the time, this is the better engine type for you.
In purely objective terms, I think its an easy decision. The Suzuki is more bike for the money. It has all the features you'll ever need, but no more. Its extremely reliable. It has a very powerful engine with lots of torque. An engine that has proven itself for generations. However, motorcycle riding is in my opinion feelings above all. If you don't enjoy how inline four bikes ride or feel, you won't enjoy it as much. I see so many moto journos ride inline four bikes and short shift them, never even getting close to accessing its power. Inline fours needs to be ridden hard to extract its full potential. The boxer twin, not so much.
Why do all these bikes look like trail bikes.
Personally I think it is linked to size and demographics . People are , on average , both taller and heavier than they were 40 years ago . A trail bike style is more spacious .
Demograhics have changed as well . Riders now , on average , are much older than they were . With age comes reduced flexibility and trail style bikes are less crouched . This would also explain the rise in popularity retro style bikes ? The top sellers in the 90’s and 20’s were sports bikes . Fewer of us enjoy the tucked position required to ride them now ? Only an opinion 🤷🏼♂️
Those OEM Dunlops are poor.
Yep … ok , until it rains ..
I'm guessing some Michelin road 6s would do wonders.
@@ioandragulescu6063I have them on my GT . They work very well .
Unfortunately, the price point on this bike is ridiculous for what it is. Nobody here in the States will buy this.
It'll surprise you how many would... Yamaha Tracer 900?
Time will tell 👍
No, that bike is too ugly. The dealer where I live is trying to discount the Tracer substantially because they can't get rid of them @@williamrae9954
@@Airtouch67In the land of the Pan American, Buell and the Motus,the problem isn't with Suzuki and the rest of the planet 😂
Those 3 surely aren't the beauty queens of bikes!😄
It looks like a very confused piece of machinery!
To my eye , most multi function bikes , crossovers , adventure tourers , sports tourers etc , do ? Aesthetically I still like the pure sports bikes but wouldn’t want to ride far , two up on them .
As a K5 GSXR owner from new, I don’t understand why Suzuki is still using this engine in the way that they are… They are trading on the K5 legend, but anyone who has ever ridden one and then one of these newer K5 based bikes will tell you that while the bones are the same the engine character in terms of power delivery is not. I’ve ridden a few and was not impressed with fueling or top end power. Given that it is an experienced, older rider that is targeted with bikes like the GT and GX, it makes no sense selling premium bikes without the latest VVT GSXR engines.
People like me/us who are still buying bikes tend to have discretionary income and it’s an awfully hard sell for me to lay out $18-19k USD for one of these and then have to spend money getting the engine to wake up when I could just walk over to the other side of town and take an S1000XR home instead. I’m at a point in my riding career where one of these bikes makes sense and I’m shopping for one but the motor alone makes me gaze at the XR and Multistrada a lot harder despite their mich higher price tags.
I wish I could understand what keeps the Japanese from making truly fast bikes in their non-superbike product ranges… Why does it make sense to sell a GSX1000S for the price of a Street Triple 765R when putting the GSXR VVT engine in it and better brakes/suspension would bring the price from $12-13k to 17 or 18k easily? People want naked superbike alternatives to the European offerings-I still love my K5 and want it’s DNA in a crossover, I just don’t want it watered down.
Really interesting and thought provoking comment. Thank you .
Great in depth review as always Michael…..seeing that you are already an owner of the GT in all honesty does this GX feel better in any way regarding the new suspension etc(I know you’ve upgraded your)
Also looking at mcn write up they quote a top speed of 132mph limited which to me sounds ridiculous (not that I would be doing such speed of course) but does seem very low
Hi Mark , I found the original suspension on the GT pretty basic , particularly the rear shock. The new suspension is a significant improvement on OE and much easier to adjust than my Nitron set up . It rides well and you can definitely feel it tighten up as you adjust it .
The screen and upright riding position of the GX will undoubtedly reduce the top speed compared to the more streamlined riding position of the GT but didn't test it rigorously enough to find a limiter? Quite a few people seem to have got more out of the GT than the road tests have suggested though ..🤔. It felt like it would go ...Thanks for commenting !
@@michaelmam …cheers for the reply…great to hear….cant wait to demo it for myself and see how I get on👍🏻👍🏻
@@markjones3551 Exactly the right approach 👍 UA-camrs like me can express opinions but they are no more or less, valid than anyone else’s. Trying the bike yourself and coming to your own conclusions is always the best way ! Making these videos has made me aware that in many countries , test rides aren’t available . Makes me realise how lucky we are in the UK ! 👍