Suzuki pulled the covers off two more new models for 2024, with the reveal of a new GSXS1000GX crossover and the return to a large capacity GSX-R in the form of the GSX-8R middleweight sportsbike earlier on this month at EICMA 2023.
GSX-S1000GX
Entering new territory with the GSX-S1000GX, offering a new sports crossover machine with a comprehensive suite of electronics and an 999cc inline four-cylinder (The same found in the GSX-S GT) delivering an abundance of power and torque.
With a design and product concept of the ultimate sports crossover, the GSX-S1000GX is set to become the benchmark in the category, as Suzuki moves into the crossover sector of the market for the first time. It boasts Suzuki’s most sophisticated electronics package to date, with a number of new and innovative systems enabled by a six-axis Bosch IMU and electronic suspension from Showa. The GSX-S1000GX is the first Suzuki to adopt Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES). The GX gets 150mm front and rear suspension travel to create an upright riding position, broadening the rider’s field of view and providing all-day riding comfort. The longer suspension travel also helps the GX smooth out bumps when riding over uneven surfaces. There are four selectable modes of SAES: hard, medium, soft, and a customisable user setting which offers +/- three increments on the selected base setting of hard, medium, or soft.
Further helping smooth out those bumps and undulations is Suzuki Road Adaptive Stabilisation (SRAS). In use for the first time on the new GX, it detects uneven road surfaces based on input from the IMU and wheel speed sensors, and, if required, triggers the Suzuki Floating Ride Control (SFRC) to help smooth out the ride. The rear suspension’s spring preload settings are also electronically controlled. In addition, the preload setting for auto mode can be adjusted to match the rider’s needs more finely. SDMS-α provides three riding modes: active, basic, comfort. Those three integrated riding modes control power output characteristics, as well as the level of traction control, which, on the GX, is integrated with Lift Limiter (anti-wheelie) and Roll Torque Control, and electronic suspension settings. Riders can opt to use the default settings of many of those systems or customise them to match their needs or preferences more closely.
Making its debut on the GX is Suzuki’s new Roll Torque Control. Based on data received from the IMU and wheel speed sensors, this new system calculates the bike’s lean angle and speed to predetermine what level of power output and acceleration is optimal at that time, for example, when exciting a corner. It then reduces torque output before the motorcycle exceeds the amount of power the system deems necessary to clear the corner effectively. The result is an extra layer of pre-emptive protection that operates silently in the background, with its settings determined by the level of traction control selected. Completing the GX’s comprehensive suite of electronics is a ride-by-wire throttle, bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control – updated on the GX to allow the system to continue operating when the rider changes gear – lean angle-sensitive ABS, Slope Dependent Control, which prevents rear wheel lift when braking downhill, easy start, and low RPM assist.
Monitoring all of the GSX-S1000GX’s electronic systems is done via a 6.5-inch colour TFT screen, which also offers smartphone connectivity (Via the Suzuki MySPIN app) And features USB socket in the side of the instrument cluster makes for easy phone charging. Powering the new GSX-S1000GX is Suzuki’s creamy smooth, 999cc, inline four-cylinder, superbike-derived engine. Known for its abundance of lowdown and midrange power, it produces 152PS at 11,000rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 9,250rpm. That engine is housed in a twin spar, aluminium frame mated to a race-proven aluminium swingarm from the GSX-R range and a lightweight subframe. All of that is wrapped in new, aggressive bodywork, with full LED lighting front and rear. Hand guards and a spacious luggage rack add extra practicality. Luggage capacity can be increased with genuine accessory 36-litre panniers.
With an OTR price of £14,499, we're expecting the very first customer orders to arrive by Christmas.
GSX-8R
Immediately highlighting the R element of the new GSX-8R is its full fairing, wind tunnel-tested to increase aerodynamic performance and provide weather protection for the rider. Bold 8R logos adorn the side panels, while fairing-mounted mirrors also aid in reducing drag. Perched in the middle of the angular face is the recognisably GSX series stacked LED headlight, topped by an LED position light. The rear combination light is also full LED, as are the indicators.
At the heart of the new GSX-8R is the 776cc parallel twin engine – which it shares with the GSX-8S – with its long stroke and 270° crankshaft design providing an abundance of low-down torque, usability, and flexibility, while a free-revving nature comes from a DOHC and four valves per cylinder. Peak torque is 78 Nm, delivered at 6800rpm, with peak power of 82.9PS coming at 8500rpm. The 270° crankshaft also provides a power delivery, character, and rumble reminiscent of Suzuki’s much-lauded V-twin ranges, while a patented cross balancer design ensures a smoothness due to a lightweight engine design. The 8R returns to its sporty riding position, placing more of the rider’s weight over the front wheel but supported by Showa suspension, with SFF-BP* (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) inverted forks and monoshock in the rear. Mounted radially to the forks are Nissin four-piston calipers.
The GSX-8R will also feature bidirectional quickshifter as standard, three selectable engine power modes, and three selectable traction control settings, plus the ability to disengage the system entirely. with the information displayed clearly on a colour 5” TFT screen and available in three colour options will be available when the GSX-8R arrives in dealerships in early February with the price set to launch at £8,899.
