2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Quick Test - Motorcycle Review

[@1990-t1j]

I think the headlights look good, as does the whole bike. My favourite inline four. I had a B-King for over seven years. Suzuki makes great engines. Enthusiastic review.

[@rm25088]

How was the Bking? Those look a treat.

[@1990-t1j]

@@rm25088 It's a great ride and surprisingly good for touring as the bit above the headlight deflected a lot of wind around me.

[@bruceleong9534]

The K5 motor is a legend. It powered one of the best sports bikes ever, was the benchmark for BMW to develop the S1000RR engine and now powers this Suzuki naked. Great bike and even better value. Looks like you were making good use of the performance Kris.

[@MotoJournoKris]

I certainly was, and it's easy to see why it's so renowned, it really is exceptional. The first GSX-S was really good, but it felt like they ironed out the fueling quite a bit!

[@rj9617]

Seriously considering this bike. Thanks for the review!

[@MotoJournoKris]

The bike is an absolute weapon and just so much fun to ride, definitely check one out!

[@rj9617]

@@MotoJournoKris For sure!

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Yeah, really a nice package. Drop by in the evening if have time.

[@Wales256]

Me too, test rode it. Fucking awesome

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@Wales256 I believe you man. Drop by. :)

[@rm25088]

I've had my 2023 for about 3 weeks? I love it. The styling is aggressive which I absolutely love. The side profile is the best. I got rid of the mirrors for bar end type, solo seat cowl, under tail, some frame sliders and swing arm spools. I also installed a Puig sport screen. Waiting on my arrow titanium slip on and wheel decals. The bike totally transformed after the tail tidy and bar end mirrors. It looks fantastic. The amount of people who stare and compliment on it is pretty unusual.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Very nice, I can definitely see that majorly cleaning up the look of the bike, especially the cowl, fender eliminator and mirrors! Should sound wicked with the Arrow too.

[@rileystanek]

Thank you so much for putting this review together. I have owned my 2022 GSX-S1000 for only one week now. This review now makes more sense having experienced the motorcycle. Coming from a 2021 Honda CB650R, I had to learn the nuances of a bigger beast. I've been riding very carefully the last several days, but over time will be able to feel everything the Suzuki has to offer :))

[@MotoJournoKris]

Congrats on the upgrade, it's a huge step up to the GSX-S from a 650! Definitely a bike you can grow into.

[@olutobii]

I honestly love the headlights actually. The got the flow of the design quite right. Most naked bikes of this kind imop have terrible front ends and aren’t aggressive enough. The Ducati streetfighter is my favourite and this comes close in terms of aggression

[@MotoJournoKris]

It definitely suits the bike well, where some of the newer lights proportionally don't seem to. Ducati nail that styling too!

[@colingordon4]

Spot on review on this bike Kris, I’ve just bought the black version and not disappointed in my decision. I’m a short 29inch inside leg male rider and it fits me nicely. Appreciate you sharing these reviews, you have a new subscriber from the UK 🇬🇧 Cheers Colin

[@MotoJournoKris]

Thanks Colin! Have fun out there (how could you not on the GSX-S!).

[@dsevwrh]

Gonna buy mine tomorrow 😁😁

[@Elgixxer2006]

Did u get it

[@OskaRusty]

Good to see a review on my local roads.

[@Digidi4]

the first time I saw this, I didn't like the looks, but it has grown on me I have a 2020 GSX-S1000 and I love it to bits, it might not be the best bike out there, but for the price you get a really good package great review btw

[@MotoJournoKris]

Cheers! And honestly that's what it is all about, a bike you love at a price you're happy with.

[@Kassas768]

I’ve had this bike for a few weeks now. Really enjoying it for the reasons stated in this review. For reference re ergonomics I’m 6 4 and find it very comfortable and easy to move around on.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Nice! Congrats on the new bike. Any mods planned so far, or are you liking it in standard trim?

[@Kassas768]

@@MotoJournoKris only mod planned so far if you can call it that is heated grips. Will see how I go after that

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@Kassas768 Definitely a great mod for this time of year!

[@chitoloveone7565]

I would install the Rear cowl ,full exhaust & tune and get rid of the passenger pegs and oem tires. Get a set of Pirelli tires and replace the rear shock with the oem shock from a ZX10R 2016-2020 and you will have a serious weapon..

[@paulconnell1309]

Enjoyed this review and the spirited riding. Strong recommendation. I am happy with the looks. Like you, I have gone for a smaller bike with the GSX 8S. I would love to see you review the 8S too. And which would you prefer to have in your garage? The s1000 is tempting though! Good deals around right now.

[@MotoJournoKris]

The 1000 is probably overkill for most riders on the road honestly! I think I'd go the 8S between the two, as amazing as the GSX-S1000 is.

[@paulconnell1309]

@@MotoJournoKris Yeh you are probably right. I test rode the GSX S750 several times and love that bike. Almost bought one with a yoshi. It tempts you to be a bit try hard with that lovely growl. I am a bit older and thought the 8S is a bit more appropriate. The 8S is surprising quick without screaming. Lots of torque early. It is more relaxed without being slower. Sorely tempted by the cheap GSX litre bike though. Good deals around now the GT has stolen the limelight. But I like having a licence. Will you test the 8S?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I'm definitely going to try and line one up. I'm really interested to see how it compares to the Honda, and how the 800DE adventure version rides as well. @@paulconnell1309

[@wayneireland5896]

Great review Kris....love your work👍

[@MotoJournoKris]

Cheers!

[@benmaisano4484]

Good review of the GSX1000 very informative. Interested to no how it compares to the yamaha MT10?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I'd say it's a really value driven alternative for anyone on a budget in that comparison. The MT-10 is a little more 'off its chops' and has a bit more bark, as well as a more modern electronics loadout and dash, for that premium. Both will do all your general road duties, as well as getting you into trouble, and share that very planted handling characteristic.

[@bobojo8591]

Hi Kris Fantastic you can Demom that, l have been hearing and seeing good things about this particularly the GT version which is being touted as either the best bike or tourer or one of the best overall. Anyway hopefully you get a chance to review that. It seems you are on a bit of a roll lately in as far as what you have been reviewing may the good times continue.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Fingers crossed, I'll have to see if I can line up a GT, as I'm really interested to see how it compares.

[@bobojo8591]

@@MotoJournoKris hi I slso hope you get it, l am sure you will have something to say about it. l never thought of sport tourers before but after the GT they are beginning to grow on me. Still not sure about the riding position though and clip ons for me are turn off but the GT is more upright and no clip ons... So you see why l would like to try it if have a chance.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@bobojo8591 Yep the sport touring options are a good alternative for a more relaxed seating position overall, while still retaining much of the appeal of the nakedbikes they are so often based on.

[@rajnatarajan3843]

Another informed review Kris. Keep up the good work.. Would you take this over the new MT09 though?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I think I'd probably go the base MT-09 because it's a bit cheaper and I do like triples (which is purely subjective). But it'd be a hard choice.

[@rajnatarajan3843]

Thanks for the insight Kris. I’m a heavy 115kg rider and do you think the base model MT09 will hold up alright for some spirited riding in the twistes and the once in a blue moon track day? Or would I have to upgrade to the SP version?

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@rajnatarajan3843 It does offer the preload adjustability you'd want, but I think if you found the suspension lacking it'd still end up cheaper getting it set up for your weight than the SP, so it'd be worth considering both if that's what you're thinking. There's always the chance even with the better SP suspension you'll find yourself in a similar situation, wanting it tweaked to suit. I generally found the SP versions harsher on the road for me, but they'd be the winner on the track for the obvious reasons.

[@rajnatarajan3843]

@@MotoJournoKris Now that's good bit of advice mate. Appreciate it! Look forward to your next review Kris. Cheers..

[@jesus2400]

Nice honest review I am on the fence Between a GSX or and Indian FTR.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Those FTRs look amazing, especially the R Carbon. I guess it depends if you want a bit more cruiser or a bit more nakedbike.

[@howardfreedman4289]

Great review. It is my next bike. Actually now that I've seen some other reviews, which would you buy as your one bike, assuming same pricing, gsx S1000 or Yamaha MT09 SP?

[@kermit8619]

Not crazy about the headlight but still love my 2023 GSX S1000. When I have a blast riding this great bike, I don't see the stupid headlight anyway 😁👍 Everybody ride safe.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Exactly! It's far from the worst headlight setup too, and a headlight swap isn't the end of the world either.

[@rm25088]

I didn't like it at first but now I like it. The whole bike looks great.

[@chitoloveone7565]

Great review 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@MotoJournoKris]

Thanks!

[@BlockHead805]

Great review as always!

[@MotoJournoKris]

Thanks!

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Great bike for the money. You don't have a lot of colors available, but I think the black one looks nice. Otherwise those 152 hp are more than enough. Keep up bro.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Definitely 152 hp is heaps really!

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@MotoJournoKris Yeah, drop by in the evening for the Busa video if interested. :)

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@RRRRefuelRideRace I think that's a 3am premiere my time, but will definitely check it out!

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@MotoJournoKris Thanks man. :)

[@jimperry4420]

I have the 750 version and it’s a fantastic machine.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Between the old GSX-S1000 and the GSX-S750 I'd have gone the 750 for sure. Now I think I'd stretch for the 1000 of the two, if I could manage it!

[@davidg2116]

I'd have loved a 750 version of this. Do 90% of my time in the city so power isn't needed

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@davidg2116 The GSX-S750 is very cool, and is probably due for an update. I'd have taken the 750 over the previous 1000, but think with these updates the 1000 would probably take the cake. That said the 750 is amazing value.

[@davidg2116]

@@MotoJournoKris I think Suzuki releasing the 950 is going to stop any update to the 750. Might as well buy the 1000 given the price of the 950

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@davidg2116 Yep, was that 950 just launched so they could offer it as A2? Seems to largely be the same bike really.

[@carlosvejar3938]

It's a good bike, great video

[@MotoJournoKris]

Thanks!

[@geokrpan7527]

Love this bike, want one so bad!

[@s4m130]

If suzuki knew how to do marketing this would be a top seller

[@MotoJournoKris]

Probably hard to justify the investment these days, but this would be a great bike to do it on, as I think the appeal is really wide and the price very enticing.

[@michaelmckenna2882]

Thanks for a great review, would you select this GSXS or a 2021 MT10 for mainly twisty roads and occasional track day ?

[@MotoJournoKris]

If money wasn't a consideration I'd go the MT-10, but in realistic terms I think the value of the GSX-S1000 would be a winner for me, as I'm cheap! Both are amazing machines however.

[@michaelmckenna2882]

Thanks for your opinion Kris, Yamaha's cross-plane motor and torque really do it for me, ideally it would be a 2022 MT10, but I'm cheap too ! I'll see what the future brings.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@michaelmckenna2882 Yep always worth looking out for a bargain especially where there isn't huge differences except styling between editions.

[@steventhomson8387]

Nice review Kris. I can't believe it only costs $17,300 which is extraordinary and seems really good value for money. I don't like the front light configuration - trying to be funky unnecessarily perhaps? I was lucky enough to purchase my 2021 BMW S1000R Sports, but it cost me $28,000 so I can see why this bike would be appealing price wise. Having said that even the front light on my BMW is questionable to some (I really like it though) so the Suzuki light might be somewhat of a subjective experience. Look forward to your next review.

[@MotoJournoKris]

It's crazy value really, I was kind of thinking of it as the perfect alternative for those who can't afford an S 1000 R to be honest. That's definitely true with the headlight, it'll always vary between riders! Also seems to be the feature which generally gets the most attention, especially with the modern lights being able to be compact.

[@rileystanek]

Headlight is very functional, more so with high beam. High beam is very very good. I appreciate the effort from Suzuki

[@wristcandy5451]

Fresh looks, I like it

[@trashguy]

After watching Ari spank the ducati on an old K5 how is the bike not more popular for the price point :D

[@MotoJournoKris]

It's crazy! I don't know if people just aren't as aware of them or something...

[@crad5476]

I am gonna pick mine up tomorrow. You think its bad if I use the quickshifter right from the start within the 1000km?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I wouldn't think so! I'd say if there was a possibility of issues they'd disable them till the first service or something like that, however I've never seen that. Can always ask the dealer what they'd recommend though.

[@crad5476]

@@MotoJournoKris Alright thank you :)

[@rm25088]

@@crad5476 Quickshift to your hearts content. I did. I've owned it for about 3 weeks and put on 350 miles. Quickshifted right from the start. Just try to do the break in.

[@crad5476]

@@rm25088 Yeah nothing is going to happen in the break in phase, but maybe 5000-10000km in, or later. I have been driving mine since 550km/220 miles and I have also been using it non stop. For some reason the quickshifter isnt all that smooth, and manual shifting is clunky, idk...

[@rm25088]

@@crad5476 Yeah i noticed that. I think the quick shifter is better in the high rpms. Sometimes it will bog down. I never use the auto blip because it seems hard. I am thinking it will get smoother as things wear. I hope.

[@ggbb9306]

Good looking bike

[@ashdivakaran9664]

Do you know if it handles as well as the other Super Nakeds like the Tuono SDR?

[@MotoJournoKris]

It feels more like an MT-10. The Tuono from last time I rode one feels a little more aggressive/light, but not as stable/solid, if that makes any sense.

[@ashdivakaran9664]

@@MotoJournoKris thanks. It makes sense. The Tuono is a but flighty because of that engine. I’m not fussed about the power but I wish this was a bit lighter.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@ashdivakaran9664 Yea, there's not a huge difference in actual weight, only 6 kg between the GSX-S and Tuono V4, but CoG, balance, geometry etc all play a big part, past just the actual weight itself.

[@ashdivakaran9664]

@@MotoJournoKris I believe the wheels & exhaust system on the GSXs is pretty heavy. Exhaust system might be an easy fix but I doubt you can swap the wheels that easily

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@ashdivakaran9664 Yea wheels are big money if you really want to save weight.

[@8marky8mark8]

I have a Yamaha XSR900 but I would definitely go for this one as my next bike. It looks awesome in black by the way. Do I need 2 bikes for the summer? 🤔🤣

[@MotoJournoKris]

Answer to if you need another bike is definitely always YES!

[@bblueangel2]

Ill start with mt09 then this. Even the mt09 have assisted self drive. This one doesn't which is weird. Dose it have front wheel lift controll or whatever it's called?

[@MotoJournoKris]

The new MT-09 has a pretty extensive electronics package, especially for the price-point. No lift control though, I think we'd need an IMU to see that.

[@timhabich3113]

The Gsxs needs a modern TFT!!

[@gosoku2771]

How did you like the Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I really liked them, good grip, good feel, and I normally prefer a rounder less aggressive profile, so they ticked that box too. No issues on the wet sections of road either, which is what I always look out for, as I like good wet weather performance in my tyres.

[@bradstrachan]

How did you get that colour?

[@MotoJournoKris]

That's the colour MotoHUB had as a demo at the time. I think the options for 2022 in Australia were Grey, Blue or Black.

[@Itowle9]

I've had this bike for a couple weeks and the headlight has grown on me a little. I love the side profile as I think it resembles KTM styling but from the front the light definitely leaves a little to be desired. Also, I think they could have done a little better on the taillight to tie the whole package together. Overall, as soon as you get a tail tidy and bar end mirrors this is a pretty sexy looking bike. I am also curious why they provided black levers, black rearsets BUT they decided to leave the passenger pegs silver... Come on Suzuki.

[@MotoJournoKris]

That's what got me. Looking at the bike as a whole I thought it worked really well. Just close up on the headlight I was on the fence. I did wonder about how it would look with the plastic headlight surround painted, or maybe with some bigger side panels to beef it out a little. That's a good point regarding the pillion pegs too!

[@florme6494]

If it helps, I really like the front head light stack. I think it really suits the naked bike style. Much better than KTM and Yamaha MT line. It is very unique so I agree that expectations of how it should look to how it does look will take time for some. Like most bold design changes. I had the gsxs1000s f. This is much better looking. The only reason I ended up selling it was the fuelling, otherwise loved it. Normally I would go out and purchase one when perfection in my eyes is available (no competition out there in opinion), but I’m reluctant with the current times and what is still to come.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@florme6494 That's a great point, a lot of people don't like the MT or KTM headlights. I'd say the fueling is significantly better here, with the GT probably the ideal replacement for your F if you wanted the fairings still. Lots of good options these days though, which does make it hard to choose!

[@rileystanek]

Headlight is very functional, more so with high beam. This is what Suzuki was going for :))

[@Itowle9]

I had a 2015 fz09 prior to this and all I did was add an aftermarket led light. It was way better than the stock led setup that comes with the Suzuki but maybe I just got lucky and bought/installed the fz light correctly?

[@dry509]

Hello I like that bike also. You mentioned you generally like smaller or less powerful bikes? What are some examples of the smaller less powerful bikes that you like to ride around on?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I've got a Ninja 400 and a WR250R at the moment, but that extends to bikes like the MT-07, Royal Enfield 650s and similar. Not that there isn't more thrills on some of the bigger machines, but particularly with the Ninja 400 I think there's enough power for some good fun.

[@dry509]

@@MotoJournoKris Cool…good to know. And in my price range also. I have been hesitating because of price. I am 6 foot 215 lbs with 30 inch inseam. Am I too big?

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@dry509 I wouldn't have thought so, I've got longer legs but found it a really good fit, and normally there's a bit more room between seat and bars, especially on a nakedbike.

[@dry509]

@@MotoJournoKris Thanks.

[@dry509]

@@MotoJournoKris So maybe I will try a Ninja 400. That is what you are talking about in terms of fit right?

[@AmenCornerRider]

Do you know if this bike is more upright than the new BMW S1000R?

[@MotoJournoKris]

Seat heights are similar but quite differently shaped, and pegs are fairly similar too. But the GSX-S1000 has taller and flatter bars. The S 1000 R are lower, more forward and more aggressively angled. So I'd definitely say the GSX-S1000 is the more upright of the two there.

[@AmenCornerRider]

@@MotoJournoKris Thank you!

[@s4m130]

How did you find the dash? Too hard to read? Did you experiment with the brightness?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I found it good, I didn't have to mess around with the settings for that and swapping between modes was easy on the run. The main thing I was really looking at was the speed, which is prominent.

[@milisamay4628]

great bike

[@eduardoolivares9653]

Suzuki today is the best motorcycle … the others are just fancy ..

[@MotoJournoKris]

I think it really proves we don't need all the new fangled stuff to get a really amazing bike.

[@HS99876]

good review, Suzuki should use this engine on a Sport Adventure bike!! just like Kawasaki Versys 1000!!

[@MotoJournoKris]

That would be interesting!

[@HS99876]

@@MotoJournoKris This is nice bike but not comfortable for longer ride, no wind protection, I am sure the GT is not that comfortable too. V Storm with inline four engine would be the best for touring!

[@leviefrauim1425]

This bike offers a face that not even its mother could love.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Haha, but as long as you're riding it you don't have to see it!

[@martyn_g]

Looks like a Gundam shagged a motorbike.. and it’s frigging great 😜

[@Victic005]

The headlight look terrible. I'd put the previous headlights on.

[@ohkey2999]

Doesn't have imu, why suzuki?

[@MotoJournoKris]

Can only assume to keep the price down, although the MT-09 does have one in a similar price range.

[@ohkey2999]

@@MotoJournoKris also ninja 1000

[@jesus2400]

Yes I would buy one it’s more of a cult bike and the 2005 GSXR motor is a bargain.

[@TheYakkis]

This or maybe a z900.

[@MotoJournoKris]

I found the Z900 a bit compact for me, but between this and a Z900 RS it'd be a hard choice!

[@roaminromero8473]

"weird camo plastic effect" smh , jesus do a little research if you are a motor journalist. forged carbon buddy.

[@s4m130]

Yeah cool you can just explain that one to everyone who sees your bike

[@MotoJournoKris]

Feel free to sub to my patreon if you'd like to support correctly identifying plastic panels faked up to look like something else and I'll push it up the priority list just for you.

[@JesusIsLord7773]

Not everyone knows bruh It does look camo too tho!

[@prndownload]

Suzuki always seem to style motorbikes to have a kids toy look and feel and I think it's actually a good thing.

[@MotoJournoKris]

I have to say this bike really stands out, and I've never minded the transformers look. I also think the bike as a whole is really on point in the styling department. It all just comes together really well.