Sport touring motorcycles used to be quite popular, but things eventually shifted in the way of adventure style motorcycles. In 2022, Suzuki introduced a heavily redesigned sport tourer known as the GSX-S1000GT. The + version we tested comes stock with color-matched saddlebags and related hardware.
The engine in this motorcycle is based on a 1000 cc superbike motor developed more than a decade ago, and constantly refined by Suzuki over the past few years. Performance is smooth and refined, but offers a strong kick at the same time.
The GSX-S1000GT and GT+ include a number of features we have come to expect on modern motorcycles, including selectable ride modes, a full color TFT screen, adjustable traction control settings, cruise control and, of course, ABS. The bike also comes standard with Suzuki’s Easy Start System (one push of the start button does it), lower RPM assist when leaving a stop, and a slip/assist clutch. Missing is an IMU, so ABS and traction control are not lean sensitive.
Behind the non-adjustable windscreen, ergonomics are pretty comfy. Not quite as upright as an adventure motorcycle, the bars are nevertheless high enough and pulled far enough back to relieve pressure from the wrists. The seat offers long distance comfort for the rider, and the slightly rear set foot pegs, although a bit higher to offer improved ground clearance, did not pose comfort issues for our 5’11” test rider.
Our bike, the GT+, came standard with color matched saddlebags, which are surprisingly large (big enough to hold a size large full face helmet), and nicely integrated onto the bike. They are easily removable, as well.
The engine is smooth, as stated earlier, and pulls with a very linear, progressive delivery with excellent fuel injection tuning. Crack open a closed throttle just about anywhere in the rev range, in either of the three power modes (Active, Basic and Comfort), and the rider is greeted with smooth, snatch-free delivery. Peak power comes on at approximately 10,000 rpm. We have seen dyno charts showing well over 130 horsepower at the rear wheel. The bike is plenty fast.
The smooth throttle response is accompanied by excellent handling. The fully adjustable fork and the shock, adjustable for rebound and spring preload, are dialed in nicely for sport riding. Dare we say, they would even work reasonably well at a track day. Although firm, small bumps are absorbed reasonably well, and the bike remains comfortable on less than perfect roads.
Side–to–side transitions on twisty roads are relatively easy despite the size of the motorcycle and it’s claimed wet weight of 521 pounds. The Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires also communicate their grip levels well to the rider.
The only complaint we have about the handling concerns a slight tendency to understeer. This is something that could probably be solved with a taller rear section tire – the stock tire is a 190/50 and we would like to try the bike with a 190/55. In any event, this is not a big issue and we essentially forgot about it after putting several miles on the bike.
A non-adjustable windscreen is becoming a bit unusual in the sport touring category these days, but the screen proved reasonably comfortable for our rider as it directed wind flow onto his upper chest and kept helmet level flow clean and buffet free.
Suzuki has always had good gearboxes, and the 6-speed unit on our test bike was outstanding. The quick-shifter system works about as well as any other we have tested.
The brakes, including the four-piston Brembo calipers up front (squeezing 310 mm discs) offered good power and feel. They are not the latest and greatest from Brembo, but they do their job well and contribute to the excellent value offered by the pricing Suzuki has set for this model and it’s sibling.
This bike isn’t just about twisty roads, of course, and the touring amenities make long distance travel a clear option. Aside from the saddlebags, there is a cruise control function, good seat comfort and wind protection. Our time spent on Southern California freeways doing 70+ mph are a testament to this.
In summary, Suzuki delivers a compelling sport tourer with the GSX-S1000GT and GT+. Excellent peak power and power delivery are coupled with good comfort, excellent handling and all the rider amenities you might want for longer trips. Suzuki keeps its price under the direct competition from Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW with a suggested U.S. MSRP of $14,199 for the GT+, and $13,449 for the standard GT (which only lacks the side cases and related hardware).
Take a look at Suzuki’s website for additional details and specifications.
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