Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ vs Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ - Cycle News

[@peterkoning21]

I love your attitude to phone connectivity !! Virtually everyone rides with their phone attached to their handlebars, distracting them and detracting from the pleasure of the ride. I don't have maps etc on display. When I have a fuel stop I look at a map and know where I'm going to ! I ride a motorcycle to get away from distractions like a phone, msgs, electronic communications. I ride for the pleasure of, unadultering, enjoyment of the RIDE. I don't even have two way comms, a jab in the ribs sends me a msg !!

[@mikehamilton9128]

Hi, good review! I bought a Yamaha Tracer9 GT+ 4 months ago. I am 6’2” and I find the screen is probably the best stock screen I have ever ridden behind in 54 years of riding motorcycles on the road, (yes, I am 70 and I rode my first motorcycle on the dirt when I was 12 years of age), so I guess we are all different.

[@dumptrump3788]

3:55 "The Tracer 9GT....3 cylinder 900cc ...one of the greatest engines ever." OH YES! The flat spot is fixed with an ECU flash, this was done one mine under a recall. As for Suzuki vs Yamaha I preferred the Tracer because I'm tall, 6' 3"/190cm & I found the Suzuki too cramped, especially the knee bend angle. I get a far more relaxed posture on the Tracer. A BIG issue for me is fuel economy & range, my Tracer gets an astonishing 52MPG (US) & that's with a large amount of gnarly commuting. Finally, a better side by side comparison would be the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ rather than the GSX-S1000GT+.

[@GIGABACHI]

"Finally, a better side by side comparison would be the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+ rather than the GSX-S1000GT+." Exactly my thoughts.

[@papamichailang]

If you are an experienced, trained rider take the GT with closed eyes and enjoy having a superbike that can do 500 miles for fun, I know cause i bought it. The GT can trailbreak hard at 120 miles per hour, the chassis is superbike capable, the breaks, I needed 40 minutes to get the feel and I really enjoy the razor like feeling I get when using the A mode. I also enjoy getting 5 - 5.5 l/per 100km when chilling. Two step cruise control is great I love it. If i wanna wage war I can, if wanna cruise with my girlfriend I can. Gearing is superbike short, I love it you can make it longer no worries torque everywhere, air protection at helmet is perfect untill 130km, i love it cause the view on the mountains is so good with so-so screen, legs and hands are totally protected.

[@tg8150]

Agree. The Tracer 9 GT puts the lowly and dinosaur of an engine Suzuki on the trailer all day long.

[@awakeadventurer9198]

​@@tg8150I believe the guy above meant get the Suzuki GT.

[@michaelfuncheon7060]

I bought a 2021 YamahaTracer 9GT when they first came out. Had 4 recall notices. The dealer reflashed the ECU 6 times and it still left me thinking it would crap out sometime. Absolutely hated the screen. Bear in mind I was a Yamaha dealer rep back in the 80's and loved them. Rode 2 different FJR's over the years, but when I got the 4th recall notice on the GT I lost confidence. Traded it in on a 24 GSXS1000 GT+. Watched every KZbin I could and was prepared to change the brake lines and replace the tires. Took delivery last October and now have 1000 miles on the clock. In my opinion, the brakes are absolutely fine, good bite and plenty of feel. The stock tires are just that - stock tires. They're fine but not the best. Neither were the tires on the Yamaha either. Suzy rides better, has a better windscreen and info screen, smoother engine, transmission and quick shifter. To sum it up, I'm much happier on the Suzuki and look forward to the touring season. It's twice the bike compared to the Yamaha.

[@cyclenews]

Thanks for letting us know. We're glad the Suzuki is such a great fit!

[@awakeadventurer9198]

Thanks Michael! How is the Suzy suspension? Plush at all? I'm looking at The GX+ and this GT. I like longer rides but have done a physical repetitive business for 30 years. I need nice suspension etc. The GX has electronic suspension(like my R1250GS). I'm looking for something lighter and sportier looking than my GS. Excellent bike but I'm ready for change n less weight to flick.

[@richardhretczak536]

Maybe you should’ve gotten previous generation of Tracer. I used to owned 2017 after 43000km no recalls and now issues. After that 2019 Tracer 900 and twice 2019 GT and again so far so good.

[@georgenewman5860]

Another feature you could have mentioned with the Tracer is the cornering headlights. I don't ride a lot at night but when I do it is nice to see what is coming around the corner.

[@chrissunde1104]

I'm with you. The Suzuki is the more compelling machine. Great straightforward review. Well done

[@cyclenews]

Thanks, Chris.

[@stole181]

I have 2022. Tracer 9Gt. I’m 6’4”, tried to seat on Suzuki and already didn’t like it. Much more room and adjustability on tracer. Funny that everyone is complaining for wind shield. I don’t have any issues with it. Summer, hot days I keep it all the way down to get some more air. Cold and windy days all the way up. Never got that head wobbles that everyone mentions. Only thing I had to change, I got Corbin seat for it(factory one the worst ever). Corbin was little stiff till it broke down, now is perfect. Also forgot to mention that I had Fz/mt09 in 2014, so knew that sweet engine before I got the tracer.

[@hjmoto]

The Suzuki is mostly based on a sportbike platform. Not the same as the Tracer. If you like sportbikes but want some utility out of it, get the Suzuki. I demoed the 24' Tracer and love it. In stock form, no bike is perfect. But you can make it better for you through adding various aftermarket items that can make it more personal for you. This review is a biased review, but I understand. A Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX would have been a similar bike to review with the Suzuki. I had a 20' MT-10 before and tried to make it into a sports touring machine. But it was still not that comfortable for me. I'm 6'1 and the Tracer was a lot more comfortable. Plus, not everyone needs a liter bike. The Tracer has plenty of power for me and what I will be using it for.

[@cyclenews]

Why do you say the review is biased?

[@1MrBryn]

I never use the Bluetooth features that run off my BMW'S dash, but I use the turn by turn directions constantly. Being able to just hit a button to direct you home when you've been out all day exploring is a fantastic feature

[@cyclenews]

Yes. Once you get your device set-up correctly, phone mirroring is excellent.

[@SteveSteeleSoundSymphony]

I don’t know about the Yamaha that much but the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ is a great bike. It seems to reflect where Suzuki is headed with some of their bikes. I really liked it when I rode it, and I think it’s one of their better bikes overall currently.

[@stephc4427]

Yamaha makes a larger touring screen for the T9 GT. I put that on mine and it solved all the buffeting/noise problems such that at 75-80 mph on the interstate is now quiet and smooth. They should have made that version standard on the bike and offered the stock screen as an aftermarket option.

[@chiblydeetz]

I put the puig sport windshield on my tracer and it solved the buffeting issues of the stock screen. It was awful.

[@alphajed7700]

You should remake this content by replacing Suzuki GT with the GX as soon as that bike comes to your country on March.

[@cyclenews]

Already on the schedule!

[@AzraelIgnis]

I've caught myself turning my 2020 mt09 into a sport tourer since I've turned 40. My wrists and arms are killing me, I need more storage space, I want cruise control. The list goes on. I do a lot of commuting to work and the more I think about it, the more I need a sport tourer in my life. I'll probably stick with the Tracer because they have some decent financing deals going on directly through Yamaha and I just love the specs of the Mt-09 engine. It fits my needs. I'm sure a few of you know my struggle and just laughing at my existential crisis because you can relate.

[@ciaranfitzgerald2491]

Can’t understand why Yamaha doubled down on the adventure bike looks for the new model. A more sporty look would appeal to me more

[@veljkovic92]

Exactly what I thought about it. I had previous generation which looked more sporty and this one has less sporty lines.

[@stephc4427]

If they had, with more faring, your insurance premiums would have been double. I went from a Ninja 650 to the T9GT and my insurance HALVED!

[@dumptrump3788]

Motorcycle to motorcycle, the Tracer wins for me, every day. Yes, the screen & seat SUCKS, but it can be put right easily & for not much money. HOWEVER, Yamaha North America hardly have any in stock & there's no accessories, I've been trying to get a heated comfort seat FOR 3 YEARS! Yamama N America bleat "Supply chain issues" but dealers in the rest of the world don't have any trouble getting OEM accessories. Yamaha did make a major mistake with the color, who on earth thinks making a bike the same color as the road & not giving you the option of something else, is a good idea? It screms "Please run into me because you didn't see me." Suzuki's GSX8R comes in bright yellow & that's what you want, you want to be seen.

[@drobeofwar7588]

I don't understand people complaining about wind. I've done 9 hours straight on a bike coping full wind. You're on a motorcycle, you are going to cop wind

[@PaulKind3d]

that is totally different than having all that force spread across your body redirected to the top of your head. A bad windscreen is infinitely worse than NO wind screen. Additionally size is not much of a factor when it comes to buffetting. A big wind screen leaves a HUGE wake of distrubed air you are sitting in 1 millisecond later. But yea, windscreens done right reduce fatigue, windscreens done wrong will give headaches and discomfort the moment you get to speed. A naked bike is just incomming wind and its even fresh air, not disturbed and buffetter and directed at your head. thats why you think the way you do, you havent ridden with a windscreen that is poorly adjusted to your height then traveled any distance.

[@paulconnell1309]

I ride a naked. No problem. My older bike, a CBR500R pushed the wind past my ears, noisey.

[@randycallow3736]

This is always weird because nobody ever really talks about fit, I have ridden lots of Yamahas in last 4 years. And only a few Suzukis . And in line 4 compared to the 3 for open road or freeway riding, the 4 is better in every way and close in gas mileage. Both bikes come with handlebars which depending on the rider is worth millions. If you ride a bike with clip on bars or a cast alloy system, if you don't like the position you are toast. Both bikes allow you to change position a little bit using different bars,bends and risers. The reach of each bike is different and where your feet fall to the footpegs also different. Out of these 2 Yamaha is a little more comfortable on your back and shoulders. Yamaha has tons of aftermarket windshields available, I had issues with all Suzukis including a SV I used for a few months and a previous Bandit 1250 which was great in every way. I like the service interval for both bikes. Just thinking that touring is out on the road more than canyons, Suzuki is pretty good. Don't know the contact points for Yamaha luggage but the Tenere OEM luggage is absolutely garbage and the tiny screws securing the cam locks should be in a horror movie!! Don't know how to say blue Loctite in Japanese!! Both bikes are really good.. don't know from stats but from just looking Yamaha is taller, riding position higher than Suzuki by 8in plus.

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review. Will be interesting to see how the new GSXS1000GX-GT+ (FFS lol) fairs in a group test against the competitors in this sector & it's sibling here too.

[@cyclenews]

Exactly! So many similar bikes.

[@user-sw8nr8wr6t]

The 1000GT not having a center-stand is a real con.

[@RideSafeNSmart]

Good review! 🙌 I loved my 2021 mt09 and that cp3 engine really is impressive but imho the improvement you mentioned over the ride quality is equally applicable to the engine. It somehow feels tighter in both departments but also more supple. Loved the mt09, dirty air, looks and quality is what swung me away from a T9Gt and towards the GixusGT+. She is thirstier but overall im smitten with mine

[@messageinathrottle4046]

I wish the Tracer was better looking.

[@PaulKind3d]

Tracer, the very best bike no one wants. Not sure if its the look or the awful name.... Not much inspiring about either. I mean, if you are going to spend all that money on marketing, you would think they would do it right.... Maybe they did and all they want is uninspired old geezers to buy it based on practicality. But yea, im with you on the looks too. just so drab and weird looking. no panache at all. Just a very purpose driven analytical and uninspiring look all around. I feel old just looking at one.

[@ScottHedrick-bd6vc]

Looks are subjective. I love the looks,better than the Suzuki.

[@ljondova]

​@@ScottHedrick-bd6vcTracer is ugly

[@paulconnell1309]

@@PaulKind3d Better tech proposition, the triple is fast enough but yuck!

[@edweeks6423]

Having traded a Concours C14 in for the Tracer 9GT I can say that I probably would have been happier with the Suzuki but in 2022 I didn't have a chance to look at one. I traded due to the weight of the Concours because at 70 yo my "cadaver tendon left foot ankle" didn't like to deal with abrupt stops on eneven ground. Both the GSX and Tracer weigh just under 500 lb, which is great. In defense of the Tracer, I have found from owning several bikes over the years: I have replaced every wind screen on every bike within 1000 miles; I replaced the seat on one bike but I found that if I give any new seat a few thousand miles, the seat conforms to my butt (or vice-versa) and is not a problem (for long rides I use a sheep skin on most bikes); the Tracer's speed shifter (and shifting in general) greatly improved after about 2000 miles. The screen I got was from Madstad and I got the little side wings. The turbulence is gone but I'm thinking about having Madstad make me another shorter screen for the warmer seasons (I had two screens for the C14 and it had the electric adjustment - which I do miss). I've never had a speed wobble with the Tracer. I did once with the C14 at about 130 mph but that may have been a cross wind and the Pilot Road tires...

[@Cal_lane_splitter]

Problem is fuel mileage, I commute 48 miles each way every day. I need at least 220 miles out of a tank which means I am filling up every other day (live in NorCal, we all commute that, I can't understand why anyone would sit in a car in a parking lot on I5 or I80. It's a joke, but never the less), So Suzuki has an awesome engine, beautiful bike, but fails on giving it a tank that can get me to work without filling up 25% more often. I have a BMW R1200RT and a Tracer and other bikes, those 2 at least make 2 round trips just fine, but I need Suzuki to add another gallon or so and I will drop the Yamaha (it is a really good engine) and enjoy the extra HP and seat comfort (Tracer seat is crap). Suzuki you make awesome bikes (I own a 750) but you have to think about the customer, you say its a commuter, give it more fuel.

[@LooxJJ]

I personally prefer the style of SX with small 19L fuel tank. Small, huggable, tight is what I prefer - and same goes with Ninja 1000SX, Tracer, KTM Duke...realistic touring range would be about 150 miles (which is a bit short). I heard Suzuki GX model or Triumph Tiger 900 touring versions have about 200~230 miles range - but need to check on that. Do check out other models that may have longer legs.

[@stoggy4839]

5 Gallon tank is pretty big. Is it moto gp gearing?

[@edgarviera8120]

Loved your report because it covered everything what a end user would be dealing with when living with the beast. And also, these are the two models I’ve been contemplating in recent months to replace my aging 13 year old Suzuki GSX 1250 with 97,000 miles. Thanks again 👍🏼

[@cyclenews]

Our pleasure, Edgar. Happy riding!

[@cpuuk]

Ah, a useful test on comparable models. Thx.

[@cyclenews]

You bet!

[@christophereaves7108]

for me the tracer is an ultimate Tourer, i purchased the MRA Vario Screen its a game changer.. The Suzuki is a blatant copy of the Kawasaki z1000sx for me. Yamaha all the way especially with that CP3

[@robertf3397]

Good objective comparison of these bikes. Thanks for talking about the wind noise and leg/seating position. I wonder where the FJR 1300 (2016 +) or Tiger 900 GT Pro would fit into comparison.

[@cyclenews]

The FJR is a bit of an old school tourer that's a lot heavier, and the Triumph runs on 19/17in. wheels, so that's more comparable to a GS. Both are excellent bikes, however. The Yamaha has made a huge mark in that space, especially against bike like the ST Honda range. I haven't had much time on a GT Pro. Might be time for a revisit...

[@paulconnell1309]

Excellent review, agreed with every word and great footage. Loved it. Thinking about the naked GSX S1000, but the GT+ is a better value proposition.

[@cyclenews]

Thanks, Paul. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@shivamarya5225]

Gsx s1000 GX version comes with a center stand and adaptive dampers, it's more comparable with the tracer since it's also a adventure bike

[@cyclenews]

It's not an adventure bike. It runs on 17-inch wheels with sport touring Dunlop tires. But don't worry we'll test it against the Yamaha when the bike is available.

[@shivamarya5225]

@@cyclenews adventure touring sort of bike just like the tracer 9, which according to yamaha is sport adventure, gt is more focused on touring which is a good thing cause most people use these bikes for touring. Gx is the same, its taller, more ground clearance, more suspension and more upright than the gt. S1000 gt is of the last proper sport touring bike left rather than a just sport bike with saddle bags or a bike with sport in name only

[@04yzfr6]

Yamaha is slipping not having a tourer based around the R1/MT-10

[@lelouchabrilvelda1794]

The Tmax, Xmax, Nmax the the best selling for touring here in ASIA. I know this is not available in the US but who cares.

[@stephc4427]

It's called the FJR1300

[@asturiancetorix2552]

@@stephc4427 Yeah, but that thing has gone forever. Maybe a newer, lighter, FJR 1000 with the CP4 will fill the big void that left the FJR 1300.

[@stephc4427]

@@asturiancetorix2552 good point

[@FatherOBlivion]

It's really unfortunate the Tracer is so ugly. I went to the dealer a couple weeks back half expecting to buy one, but just couldn't get over the looks. I'm generally willing to trade appearance for performance, but it can't be so hideous I want to throw a tarp over it to avoid seeing it every time enter the garage 🤮

[@cyclenews]

Ha! Brutal assessment, but not far off the mark.

[@michaelhart5886]

That can be said for plenty of the ugly transformer styled bikes of the last decade. I think I'll stick with my 2008 vfr800 even if it does need a few more horsepowers

[@StreakSRM]

The looks were also the reason I couldn't pull the trigger on the tracer. I ended up getting a ninja 1000sx

[@anthonypellegrino1633]

I rarely look at the front of my “21” Tracer while riding it 😂

[@dcxplant]

100% on CarPlay and Android Auto.

[@tomkeyes6285]

I own both, 2016 GSXS1000f and 2022 Tracer. It's not even close, would take the Suzuki hands down any day. Also, the Tracer has a known speed wobble at 62 and ~86 mph.

[@olliemh79]

Surely the new Suzuki Gx is the direct comparison to the tracer,🤷🏻

[@cyclenews]

It wasn't available at the time of testing.

[@olliemh79]

Shame that's the video I wanna see👍🏻

[@awakeadventurer9198]

​@@olliemh79I'm interested in all 3, so it works for me.

[@Michael-Masi-911]

​@@cyclenewswhat about now?

[@splodge57]

Between these I'd go with the Suzuki. I couldn't put up with the Yamaha looks and the wind noise. But the Kawasaki Z1000SX beats both hands down.

[@SteveSteeleSoundSymphony]

The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ is a really good bike. I got a chance to test one a few weeks back and I was really impressed. It seems this is one of the bikes that Suzuki actually cares about. I’d like to test the Z1000X. For Japanese bikes I tend to like Suzuki and Kawasaki most of the time. I’d like to see Suzuki do something like the H2.

[@Michael-Masi-911]

​@@SteveSteeleSoundSymphonydon't hold your breath. Suzuki are afraid of technology and the H2 is. A tech beast.

[@krazokid19]

Suzuki Gsxs1000gt > Yamaha Tracer 9! Get more for your money!

[@G-Man01]

Heart: S1000GT. Head: Tracer. It's a shame that Suzuki does what it always does. Miss out on critical features. Whether it's a cost cutting tactic or marketing stupidity, it really is a shame that they don't just make fully featured bikes.

[@nicholasleistra9920]

Can we see the Tracer vs the 2024 GSX-S1000GX (GX not the GT)

[@cyclenews]

As soon as it becomes available in the U.S, yes.

[@maximk2537]

Great review! Good stuff

[@cyclenews]

Much appreciated!

[@RaulTecar]

This is a pointless comparison, why not compare the Tracer with the S1000GX, as that is the direct competitor? Yamaha has nothing in the S1000GT class, only Kawasaki, with the SX.

[@cyclenews]

The GX is not yet available in the USA.

[@ryan-jaybalisi5257]

I would agree on you.

[@awakeadventurer9198]

Im actually considering the Suz GT, the GX, and the Tracer 9 GT. So this comparison is perfect for me.

[@SteveBrigden]

@@awakeadventurer9198same for me. Directly relevant for me too.

[@nolifeoffline8118]

Comparing apples and oranges.

[@eagledrummer23]

not really, they're both sport tourers. They may have different geometry and different styles but they're trying to accomplish the same thing. Both sporty lightweight 17" bikes

[@nolifeoffline8118]

@@eagledrummer23 I would not describe tracer as sport. And lightweight litre bike sounds kinda not right.

[@eagledrummer23]

It's all relative though... for touring bikes these are lightweight. They are far sportier than most of the competition they would be pitched against. No one is saying these are sporty like a track bike because that's not the intent of these bikes. The tracer can't be considered an adv bike with a 17" front; it's an upright sport tourer. @@nolifeoffline8118

[@jaythomasni]

Yamahas has good design before. Now they have the Agricultual or Contruction machine look..

[@CraigSmith568]

I don't track ride, so all the tech is just useless for me. I have never found a situation where I thought I needed adaptive cruise control. I would take the Suzuki all day over the Yamaha.

[@Sporttourer]

All the tech is for the road and radar cruise is very useful for maintaining speed on the highway when following someone

[@CraigSmith568]

I have never once thought I needed any of the tech. If I'm following someone I'm not using cruise control. I just turn it off. I only use it on the freeway anyway.

[@stoggy4839]

@@Sporttourer Yea, i don't like cruise at all. Its just scetchy as shit to give up control on a motorcycle. I don't care i don't want it. Just a cheap throttle lock for a few minutes is good enough.

[@eagledrummer23]

A really interesting conclusion on what is the better touring bike! This is why reviews are important; you'd never look at these two bikes and think the suzuki was better for long trips. Though I'm sure someone has solved the buffeting issue with the aftermarket?

[@rob.fisher]

Good video - I totally get that Suzuki now do a tall rounder but I think this is a comparison most people will consider if cross shopping for a touring type bike 👍✌️

[@cyclenews]

Wow someone gets it! Thanks Rob.

[@johnshropshire3399]

I appreciate your perspective . Great video !

[@cyclenews]

Thanks for watching!

[@UncleWally3]

By virtue of ergonomics alone, isn’t the better apples-to-apples comparison between a GT and a GX?

[@cyclenews]

The GX wasn't available for this test, so we got the GT instead.

[@cj548]

No. This video is intended to help Riders choose which motorcycle they want. Could be a scooter versus a chopper

[@sagarthapa3765]

SAME! I was about to say the same thing, but no let's comapre the Diavel to the Rocket! Let's compare the sports tourer to an adventure tourer!

[@cyclenews]

"The new 2024 TRACER 9 GT+ is Yamaha’s ultimate Sport Tourer with a best-in-class specification that delivers unprecedented levels of versatility, functionality, comfort and control." That is a direct quote from Yamaha's website. There is nothing ADV tour-er about the Tracer. @@sagarthapa3765

[@sagarthapa3765]

​@@cyclenews You're right, there is nothing ADV tourer about the Tracer, except, it's got flat handlebars unlike the Suzuki (sorry I can't keep up with the names) and when Yamaha doesn't have a clipped on 'road' touring machines like the FJR used to, then comparing two bikes whose ergonomics aren't similar doesn't make sense. In my opinion. Because the Tracer is going to be more upright. Like the new Suzuki flat handlebar version based on the same engine. The title seems to be a bike vs. bike comparison.

[@stevesmith756]

Prob just stick with my FJR1300. The perfect ST bike

[@cyclenews]

Still an awesome machine.

[@brianglendenning1632]

@@cyclenewsstill being used by NSW HWP!

[@andrewcherouvis6703]

The suzuki 1000GT is very expensive to insure in the states compared to the Tracer. That was the decisive factor for me.

[@cyclenews]

Good to know.

[@USAMAXI42069]

shoukld have compared the GSX s1000GX not the gt

[@desertedcake]

It doesn't come out until March

[@cyclenews]

Yes, we know. We'll do it when the bike becomes available from Suzuki USA in a couple of months.

[@ninji5226]

I don't think Yamaha has a proper sport tourer because the tracer is definitely not it, that's a scooby doo level adventure bike with a sport touring mask on (and not even a very convincing one). We need a comfy R1 styled bike with bags, then this would be a accurate comparison.

[@stoggy4839]

an R1 is no comparison to a gsx-s. maybe mt10 but they made the wheel base on it too narrow it would be bouncy as shit. The tracer loses because it has weak crappy suspension and less breaking power.

[@ninji5226]

@@stoggy4839 I wasn't comparing the R1 to the GSX-S directly but the GSX-S is essentially a comfortable GSX-R so thats the comparison to the R1. I want a full faired bike with R1 styling. The MT-10 does have a few touring accessories like panniers and a taller screen but its a naked, thats not the same. Kawasaki has the Ninja 1000SX, and Suzuki has the GSX-S GT, Yamaha just passed off an adventure bike for a sport tourer and no one is fooled, at least I'm not. ADV bikes, despite their positives, will always be hideous.

[@stoggy4839]

@@ninji5226 The tracer is a "sport TOURING" bike The 100GT is a "SPORT touring" bike. Touring bikes need to be rideable for long range. So they need higher bars, they need more leg room. They need better seats. They need mpg and tank range. All that plastic is just crap to remove to change the oil. it does very little for the bike or the rider. I hate panniers, i just strap a backpack to the rear seat. The GT is hot and buzzy. It will burn your right leg on a hot day. The screen is actually useful. the suspension is 43mm and very good. All abs sucks but once that is out the brakes should be good. It is fast. the tracer loses to the 1000gt because it has worse suspension, the tracer has 41mm fork and compression in one leg and rebound in the other. It only has dual piston brakes. But it has WAY MORE leg room and less reach to the bars. The ninja 1000sx is way closer to the gt but it has 41mm forks and compression in only one leg. Same leg room and reach to the bars as the GT. Brakes are about the same as the GT.

[@stephc4427]

The T9 GT is NOT an ADV, it is a long distance sport tourer. There is also the FJR1300, so IMO you're are highly mistaken in saying Yamaha has no "proper sport tourer."

[@stephc4427]

@@stoggy4839 The suspension is in no way weak and crappy. I'll bet you don't even own one let alone ever ridden one.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Go with the Suzuki, spend part of the difference, first thing get rid of the OEM rubbish tyres and a set of S22/23’s and heated grips. All good. 👍😎

[@cyclenews]

The S23's are a heck of a good tire.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@cyclenews They are my pick within this category as I find them more confidence inspiring compared to the others and my lap times around Phillip Island when I compared them to the others to also translate into just over a second a lap quicker. In both dry and wet conditions. Depending on where you live in Melbourne it’s between 1 and 3 hours away.

[@jamesonpace726]

Wish someone could explain to me why radar cruise is a good idea on a bike, 'cuz I can't find any reason....

[@cyclenews]

It's very handy once you get used to it, but the system isn't perfect. It can take a while for the system to re-engage drive once the car in front has moved out of the way. A better option would be to have cruise control that is both regular cruise control and radar assisted so the rider can choose.

[@JimGoryeb]

It really depends on the implementation. I’ve got radar cruise on my Honda Ridgeline and my Audi Q7. The Audi reacts immediately and smoothly when passing/changing lanes. The Honda is slow to react and clunky and , therefore, less useful. Sounds like the Yamaha system isn’t perfect. So it might prove less useful.

[@erwinagnes7358]

My 2003 Honda ST came with linked braking system. It's an old system already

[@f42un84u]

He was talking about radar cruise control + linked braking

[@tomkristiannerb7435]

Great T-shirt 😁

[@cyclenews]

It goes well... ;)

[@Fernando90054]

The tracer 9 GT +, has two “faulty” features , or do I should say, not so well thought as they could be: - The wind shield, and - the pirate eye lights (when on running daylight regulated) These are killer buying negatives that I can’t overcome.

[@nemerkha]

Both personal preference 🤣🤣

[@Fernando90054]

O didn’t understood fully your reply, if it is concerned to the bikes itself or two the “faulty” situations That I’ve pointed out on the Tracer. The latter is objective matter, not just a question of preference. ✌🏻✌🏻

[@nemerkha]

@@Fernando90054 screen and looks. The 2 are subjective not objective. The screen depends on how tall you are and what helmet you used. It’s simple. The looks? Well some like it, others don’t. Matter of taste and not a fault of the bike.

[@Fernando90054]

@@nemerkhayes you are right, in my subjective opinion those are points that from my point of view could be bettered but I accept the correction, maybe is just me, I agree!✌🏻

[@xpllmmff]

you are comparing apple to orange as these two bikes have totally different riding position ergonomics. Tracer 9 is a typical road adv touring bike, and its counterpart from suzuki should be S1000GX. This S1000GT, on the other hand, is categorized as sports touring, and if you are looking for similar model from yammie, a FJR1300 has more comparability than tracer.

[@cyclenews]

"The new 2024 TRACER 9 GT+ is Yamaha’s ultimate Sport Tourer with a best-in-class specification that delivers unprecedented levels of versatility, functionality, comfort and control." This is a direct quote from Yamaha's website. The Tracer 9 GT + is not an ADV tourer. It runs 17-inch wheels just like the Suzuki. They both have single piece high rise handlebars. They are more similar than not. When we get the GX in the USA, we'll compare the two.

[@bicivanaswegen2077]

Good choice , Suzuki

[@KrypteiaXi]

ABS saves lives. Only clowns riding some retired grandpa's 5th hand 20+ years old bike will tell you otherwise. I never heard anyone riding a good bike complaining about being given the tech. Also, if your bike is over 10 years old, its about time for an upgrade fellas, let this dinosaur rest...

[@unknownmonkey8661]

I am genuinely surprised none of "real men" on "real bikes" came here to explain how wrong you are yet. Internet must be healing

[@mathewkendell9056]

I could care less what anyone else rides. I’ve ridden long enough that I have ridden a lot of different bikes over the years. What I like doesn’t correlate to what someone else likes. Ride what you prefer and enjoy it.

[@fjrboy]

A few more own goals on the Suzuki is......no centre stand or provision to fit one and no way to fit a top box? Supposed to be a sports tourer, my missus like a lot of pillions will not ride without one. So I bought the Yamaha

[@cyclenews]

Yeah the lack of a center stand is a bummer.

[@shivamarya5225]

You can get it on the Gx version

[@splodge57]

Since 1987 and my GSXR1100 I've owned so many bikes without a centre stand and never found it a problem.

[@fjrboy]

So much easier with one to do basic maintenance...oiling chain on a tour is pain In.arse, etc

[@rikpward]

This is not a like for like comparrison - the comparrison should be the Tracer9 GT v GSX-S1000GX (not GT)

[@stevesmith756]

Wish the Yamaha had more wind protection and a shaft drive and hydro clutch

[@kresimirmilisa5560]

Both these touring bikes are amazing to drive good video😊

[@cyclenews]

Thanks!!

[@articcircleado]

I love the suzuki

[@PankajkcPANKAJKC-xp1st]

Nice 👍👍 video 🙏

[@cyclenews]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@FrankBonessa]

Thanks for the news, I'm picking up one in red on tues. Can't wait.

[@cyclenews]

Enjoy!

[@FrankBonessa]

@@cyclenews Most definitely. thnx.

[@chrisssinstockholm]

The Tracer 9 is crazy expensive. In sweden it cost almost twice the price of a Tracer 7. That does not make sense.

[@gogglespizzano6540]

Love the shirt.

[@cyclenews]

;)

[@VoLuTheR]

Interesting, I thought the GX would be perfect againts T9 GT

[@cyclenews]

Suzuki America didn't have a GX ready in time for this test. Should have them in the next few weeks.

[@japprivera3129]

Only reason I WILL NOT buy the Suzuki is the center stand. Call it how you wanted, but if it says "tourer" somewhere, it has to have a center stand.

[@cyclenews]

Fair call.

[@shivamarya5225]

The Gx version has center stand

[@ogdog123]

After maker centre stand is available

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Suzuki have never called it their small block Chevy engine as this could only come from America. Manufacturers, in general, attempt to cut down the R&D budgets by simply utilising an engine in multiple platforms. Nothing new here considering it’s been done for decades and centuries when it isn’t motor specific.

[@cyclenews]

Look, Marcus, it was an off the cuff remark from a few people within Suzuki USA's management. It wasn't an official line said by Suzuki Japan. Don't read too much into it.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@cyclenews It’s OK. I get it as it would only come from Americans as each car manufacturing country that’s produced a specific engine generally has a similar type of comment. Even Australia, at one stage produced the world’s fastest production sedan in the Ford Falcon Phase 3 GTHO. Check that one out if interested. All good.

[@cyclenews]

@@marcusgeorge1825 I'm well versed on the GTHO. Now that's a real car...

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@cyclenews and now super expensive in original mint condition.

[@JS-nf1sn]

I'm a Yamaha fan, big time, but the Tracers are ugly. I had an FZ6 fifteen years ago, reminds me of that, but not in a good way. I'm sure it's a brilliant bike....

[@cyclenews]

The FZ6 was a great bike

[@Paora42]

Brilliant review...thank you!

[@cyclenews]

Glad you liked it!

[@oscar_sheen]

Ahhh I’ll just buy a tmax 🎉

[@cyclenews]

Nice

[@ChrisSauer-oe5ve]

🤣🤣 🛵 💨

[@olivierrassemusse2145]

Nice video. They are not exactly in the same category, no ? GSX-S1000GX vs Tracer 9 GT are crossover :)

[@motormichael5831]

Suzuki has no top case option. None. Makes me question if the Suzuki sub frame could even handle an aftermarket solution. That alone gives the nod to the Yamaha, given they are supposed to be tourers.

[@marksimpson5218]

Yes, the sub frame on my tracer 900 gt was not designed to take a top box, but the new tracer 9 can. Not sure about the Suzuki.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

The subframe is incredibly strong and suzuki does very very tough testing. That trellis rear end can definitely handle it. Aftermarket probably already has it solved as well.

[@motormichael5831]

@@jordanjoestar8839 How do you know? During the press release, the chief engineer explicitly said the bike was not engineered to carry a top case, only for light, soft luggage.

[@rodneyhull9764]

screens are ok if they are the size of a barn door,otherwise do without

[@cyclenews]

Correct

[@PaulKind3d]

i want a gsx1000gt about as much as I want a m109r. I guess ill need to get both. My DR desperately needs some stall mates and that would round my riding quite nicely. 1 for spirited long distance riding.... 1 for bar hopping and local disturbances..... the DR for litterally everything else. The DR will certainly have a stall mate this year, the question is which one.... m109r or gsxgt? I know neither compete with each other excepting in my heart.

[@FrankBonessa]

Gt, 09 is cool, but not very useful. GT is a fast stepping mule.

[@ApexMotow]

A better apples-to-apples matchup comparison would have been the upright Tracer 9 vs Suzuki's upright GSX-S1000GX.

[@cyclenews]

Absolutely. But Suzuki didn't have the GX ready in time so this is what we got.

[@orlandogabriel9399]

Nice review. From Philippines

[@888jackflash]

SINGLE HEADLIGHT: NO ONE WANTS THIS. What is Suzuki thinking? "Sporty"-look??

[@Jeffrey_t_e]

They both have one light for low beams. The solution is to leave the high beams on during the day.

[@888jackflash]

Not the best of solutions. Why should we have to "settle" for that? @@Jeffrey_t_e

[@DC-BG]

트레이서의 스크린은 정말 최악이야....근데 디자인은 이쁘지 않음????

[@RobertBurwood]

No its horrible looking!

[@DC-BG]

@@RobertBurwood 아니야!!! 트레이서는 엄청 아름다워!!!! ㅜㅜ

[@22RoadKing647]

I agree that the Tracer is ugly.

[@DC-BG]

@@22RoadKing647 NO!!!!!!!!!!!! ㅜㅜㅜㅜㅜ

[@valebliz]

@@DC-BGtracer looks like shit.

[@johngodden4363]

This guys been paid off by Suzuki. His bias is through the roof.

[@cyclenews]

Nice try

[@nogerboher5266]

Yamaha vs Suzuki! Which one will break first?! 🤣No but in all seriousness how come Yamaha in collab with car companies such as Toyota, Ford, Lexus and Volvo - and then Suzuki with their own cars, both make some of the most reliable and best performing car engines in the entire market but somehow can't make reliable bike engines even if you held a gun to their head?! 😂😂

[@messageinathrottle4046]

My Yamaha and Suzuki experiences seem to be quite opposite of yours. I ride both (current stable includes a 2019 MT-07 and a 2008 Bandit 1250s), have been riding for years, ride daily in all weather (including at least one annual snowstorm I didn’t expect 😂), tour and commute, and have never had a single repair. I just do rudimentary maintenance and replace wear items.

[@PaulKind3d]

im riding a 2007 suzuki dr with unknown miles on it. Bought it used from a guy who did TAT riding on it said he crossed america a few times with it. On the new odometer its at 17k miles but he had only swapped to a vapor a year before i bought it from him. Has some upgrades to it, but the engine is original, the clutch has been replaced 2x (once by me), and its sparkplug blew out of the engine once and i had to timesert it. Bought for 3k, and guess what that motor runs like it was built yesterday.... The GSX1000 motor is equally proven and reliable. People typically claim any bike of the japanese 4 are effectively bomb proof and have odometers to prove it. If you think these machines are unreliable im going to have to say the problem is likely you. not the bike. They are unbelievably reliable (both suzi and yami). If i didnt knw better id think you were trolling.

[@bikersquest]

Since when were Yam and Suzuki engines not reliable? They literally came 1st and 2nd on an motorcycle reliability index....

[@mm-hq4qh]

lol

[@stoggy4839]

we don't need apple car play for our bikes we need the ability to tune our EFI. Get rid of ABS too. keep your eyes on the road... WTF. Use a cardo or sena or just head phones.

[@paulocometti4317]

Stop put ABS and every bikes...

[@extrajava9175]

why

[@stoggy4839]

@@extrajava9175 ABS is dangerous. It doesn't work and it causes brake failure. Noone breaks by pumping the brakes for reason. They run the brake hoses on top of the engine to get from the master cylinder to the ABS pump. Heat kills brake fluid.

[@cyclenews]

They can't. It's the law.

[@stoggy4839]

@@cyclenews so that is only in england, maybe EU too. and if the law is endangering people then the law is criminal. Whats the fine? Id bet the ABS crap costs around $1000 US. I'd pay the fine and not pay for ABS. As in I will pay the fine and you will not charge me for ABS crap. I live in the US though, i don't have to have ABS.

[@cyclenews]

@@stoggy4839 The manufacturers don't make U.S.-only bikes. They make bikes for Europe and that's what everyone gets worldwide, including America. Hence the reason why all engines have to conform to Euro 5+ (whatever it is now) regulations.