Suzuki GSX-S1000 review, test ride

The S1000 also comes with fully adjustable suspension front and rear, upside down telescopic forks with spring preload, damping, rebound and compression and an adjustable monoshock and alloy swingarm at rear. We rode the new Suzuki on twisty roads in the hills, and found that it handles really well, with a stable, still reasonably light feel, apart from a willingness to be flicked about. Direction changes are quick with good grip offered by Dunlop tyres, that held on gamely even when riding the new Suzuki in wet, far from ideal conditions. The suspension is set a touch towards firm in its stock setting but does still allow for spirited riding, while nicely soaking up bumps and potholes even at high speed. A set of 310mm disc brakes are used in front, with a 250mm single disc rear setup, combining to offer excellent bite, with our test ride confirming the ABS works well even in the wet.

Suzuki’s latest has solid street presence, helped by its loud, intoxicating exhaust note that has proved to be a head-turner throughout our ride. It’s a really quick motorcycle, as expected from a modern day litre-class naked, and handles really well too, proving about as much fun on rain- drenched roads as we hoped for. Riding on dry stretches confirm this is indeed an excellent handling naked bike. And Suzuki’s done well to equip the S1000 with upmarket electronics including ABS and traction control, both excellent aids to have. The GSX-S1000 costs an affordable Rs 12.25lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), at which point there’s enough value to pose a serious threat to litre-class naked rivals, the Kawasaki Z1000 and Honda CB1000R.

Rayomand Buhariwalla with Rishad Cooper