Suzuki GSX-S1000GX Travel Test & Long Term Test Conclusion 2024

For years, Suzuki offered solid motorcycles with well-known components and attractive prices, but at the same time, they couldn't keep up with the rapidly evolving technology race compared to the competition. Our excitement was all the greater when the Japanese brand finally demonstrated their innovative spirit with the GSX-S1000GX, launching a cutting-edge technology flagship. The GX was immediately integrated as a long-term test bike into our fleet and has since had to prove itself in various areas. We have taken the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX to the racetrack, embarked on longer tours with it, pushed it to the limit on our test track for best lap times, and compared the GX with other touring motorcycles.

At the end of the season, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX was tested in an Austrian insider region for motorcyclists: the twisty roads of the Mühl and Waldviertel. This region not only offers breathtaking green hills and quiet, sparsely trafficked roads but also a true paradise for twisties. The starting point of our test days was the Moho Rockenschaub in Liebenau, a motorcycle hotel whose owner, himself a passionate biker, provided us with insider tips and the coolest routes. Here we were able to test the GX over four days under various conditions – from touring to spirited riding.

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is Suzuki's first crossover bike, setting new standards for the brand. Equipped with the legendary K5 engine, a 999cc inline-four with robust grunt and sporty performance, it delivers 152 horsepower and 106 Nm of torque. The semi-active suspension, a first for Suzuki, allows a wide range between comfort and sportiness. With a measured weight of 238 kilograms (weight fueled up), it is not a lightweight, but remains within the typical range of high-legged crossover motorcycles.

Showcase features on the GSX-S1000GX are primarily found on the electronic side, as it draws from the full range compared to other Suzuki models. Particularly noteworthy is the semi-active suspension, used for the first time by Suzuki, offering an impressive range of comfort-oriented to sporty settings. The riding experience is enhanced by lean-angle-dependent assistance systems like traction control and ABS, implemented for the first time in a Suzuki sport motorcycle, ensuring safety and stability. Other standard features on board include a quickshifter, various riding modes, the 6.5-inch TFT display, and cruise control.

During our long-term test, the GSX-S1000GX had to prove itself primarily in everyday use on countless commutes between Vienna and Neustadt. Fortunately, Suzuki's crossover can play to some of its strengths here. The seating position is comfortable and, thanks to the optional touring seat, offers plenty of legroom even for taller riders. The knee angle, which is not extreme but certainly sporty, is noticeably eased by the accessory seat, making longer rides pleasant. The integration of the luggage is practically successful – with enough storage space for a helmet or the weekly shopping, without compromising the sleek rear design.

A weak point in urban areas is the limited steering angle, which makes maneuvering or compact U-turns while searching for parking more difficult. Nevertheless, the GX impresses with its smooth riding performance on bumpy roads, where the semi-active suspension can fully play out its advantages. Suzuki has devised several clever systems that adjust the damping so that the bike hardly moves vertically. On the cobblestone streets of Vienna's old town, you practically glide over the undulating surface. If the situation calls for more damping or preload, the desired setup can be adjusted with just a few button presses. The semi-active suspension significantly expands the GX's range of use.

The GSX-S1000GX features a rather short gear ratio, which favors a sporty riding style but slightly increases consumption. On average, it consumes 6.1 l/100km on country roads and up to 7.5 liters in city traffic. Far from economical, but considering its engine and as a sports motorcycle, not an outrageously high consumption. The 19-liter fuel tank allows for ranges of about 300 kilometers before a fuel stop is necessary.

The GSX-S1000GX, as a long-term test bike, has also participated in several extensive tours. Thanks to its previously mentioned qualities, it proves to be a versatile travel companion. The comfortable seat and well-designed ergonomics allow for longer rides, while the dynamic, grunty engine character provides ample power during overtaking maneuvers. This particularly harmonizes with the optional quickshifter, which shifts crisply and willingly through the gears at almost any rev range.

The wind protection could, however, be improved. The windscreen is adjustable only in three stages and requires tools for adjustment. Unfortunately, even in the highest position, the wind is directed quite loudly towards the helmet, though the body is well protected against the elements. Overall, it's okay, but the wind protection is significantly better on some competitor bikes. On the other hand, the large TFT display offers full 3D map navigation integration via the MySpin app.

The GSX-S1000GX may have often had to show its pragmatic side, but it gifted us the widest grin under the helmet in the twisties. The GX is not a pure sports bike, yet it allows for very dynamic rides on twisty roads. The sporty riding style benefits from the well-thought-out ergonomics, which support both a neutral cornering technique and active cornering with a hanging body. The semi-active suspension offers a good balance between precision and agility. The front provides plenty of feedback and stability during hard braking maneuvers. Under heavy stress, such as in fast corners with road irregularities, the rear suspension shows slight weaknesses. The semi-active shock absorber could offer a bit more calmness and damping even in the hardest suspension mode.

Throughout the season, as initially mentioned, the GX had to endure some tougher rides. On our last tour at the end of the season, both the fitted Bridgestone T32 tires and the brakes showed some wear. After a total of 9,200 kilometers, the GX has definitely earned new brake pads and tires.

With a starting price of 19,790 Euros (Austria), the GX offers a lot of motorcycle for not a small amount of money. Suzuki wants to be duly compensated for the flagship's state-of-the-art systems. Whether it's worth it depends on the area of use and personal preferences. The more versatile you want to use the GSX-S1000GX, the more the assistance systems and the semi-active suspension can play to their strengths. If you're simply looking for a sports bike with an upright seating position, there are cheaper alternatives. The GX may not excel in any single area, but it offers a lot of performance in the various riding situations you might encounter during tours, spirited riding, and everyday use.

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is an impressive crossover bike, whose versatility and technical sophistication became evident over nearly 10,000 kilometers during the 2024 season. It is suitable for everyday rides, long tours, and sporty ventures – a true all-rounder. Thanks to its versatile chassis, powerful engine, and perfectly positioned ergonomics, it becomes an attractive motorcycle for those seeking a comfortable street tourer with sporty qualities. Minor weaknesses, such as the limited steering angle or the wind protection in the upper area, do not overshadow the strengths of the GX. A successful model that plays at the forefront of the crossover motorcycle class.