Suzuki GSX-S1000 review | Visordown Road Test

[@thornscoop2]

I have had one for three months and done over 3000miles so far. Its epic!! Having listen to you whinge about throttle response for the 4 minutes or so, you could save time by adjusting the slack out of the cable and the problem is sorted. Having had over 30 bikes in the last 20 years, this is without doubt the best bike i have owned....and that includes riding through town.

[@R3RLEE]

Well said!!

[@EVILSPAWN1003]

I`m abit late, i know. I`m not able to buy NEW bikes, i have to wait a couple of years. Anyhoo: ECU remap. Sorted my 2017 right out. And i LOVE it. When everyone else complains about sore butts i`m ready for another 200 miles

[@rockafella1690]

I have to say I do like these reviews. Much more honest and useful than certain other sites who seem to get carried away and say everything is great about every major bike that gets launched.

[@HerrRottweiler]

I liked the review guys. I test rode both the bikes back to back and felt the same thing. Good to see reviewers being a bit more honest rather than being overly polite to get invited back to help push the sales. Riders and buys should be getting access to what's great and what isnt in these machines

[@carvelli3]

I have a 2016 GSX-S1000F and there is nothing wrong with the throttle. It works perfectly and there is nothing that Suzuki needs to change. I ride on country back roads full of twists with hills and in city traffic every day. All without the slightest throttle issue. You guys that want a less responsive throttle should have your mechanic adjust your's or get a less responsive bike. This bike is a pure joy to ride and I like the way the throttle has been engineered!

[@prndownload]

I'm keen to test one now. It just seems like a great cheap and practical commuter bike for someone who likes super nakeds. I just can't see myself spending tuono money for a bike I'll use everyday and ride in the rain. There must be some merit to the throttle snatch because a few people have mentioned it but I swear my 08 street triple brand new was like operating a light switch. Feathering the clutch to feed in the power smoothly became 2nd nature. I sat on a gsxs at the shop with this in mind and felt maybe the spring or whatever when it engages from slack is a little stiff initially. Something you'd quickly get used to and that would also 'break in'. Anyway I'm really hoping it is one of those bikes for someone with a delicate touch that loves a super sensitive/crisp throttle.

[@RockoandProtea]

Not saying that the reviewer is incorrect but may have misunderstood what Suzuki, or even WHO Suzuki are aiming this bike at. This is after all a naked GSX-R1000 correct? A SUPERNaked? Personally, I have ridden this bike and found no problem around town. We finally can say we have an exciting bike from Suzuki in almost a decade, don't think I want them going back to being Suberbike tamers!! Bring back the fiery Suzuki of the past is what I say, well done Suzuki.

[@seancarson9170]

Rocko Protea From my understanding is that this bike is made for everyday riders that want some exhilarating power, but are able to tame everyday streets.

[@darthvisor9289]

It is one of the most exciting bikes i ever have ridden and yes, the throttle is snatchy but with a sensible throttle hand you can control it pretty good. I don´t think that anyone would ride this bike as a daily commuter to work. At least not me. Beside this snatchy issue (which is not an issue for me) this is probably the best value for money in the 1000cc class, an extremely thrilling bike, especially above 8000 rpm.

[@R3RLEE]

Easy fix, take up the throttle slack, or fit an t.r.e. sorted!!

[@dontfuckncordme]

good and honest reviews. reviews are supposed to be exactly like this. Just becaue you like the bike the manufacturers try to sell you, doesn't mean you gotta be butthurt when bad things are said about it.

[@WhyteBoyy]

Have you rid one? By you saying suppose, I’d take that as a no 😂 until you’ve rid it don’t comment

[@TheMumbleBee]

Come on now, you're riding a 1000cc bike. A rip-off of a k5 GSXR 1000 with more mid-range - what were you really expecting? This sort of bike is for people who commute into London from the depths of Surrey or Kent and ride national speed limits for miles yet need a quick, nimble bike once they get into town. If you wanted a bike strictly for town usage that didn't scare you in every gear then get a 250cc.

[@chr11sf]

Well said. The way it is now is either exciting or annoying...depends on the riders personality...

[@visordown]

chr11sf We rode it on national speed limit roads too. BMW's S1000R manages to be at least as exciting without having an annoying throttle response.

[@visordown]

The Mumble Bee We rode it on national speed limit roads too. BMW's S1000R manages to be at least as exciting without having an annoying throttle response.

[@visordown]

markmywords312 Hi there. The throttle response of the GSX-S1000 has been a consistent source of complaint from other journalists to ride it too. And changing up doesn't fix it. It would be disingenuous of us not to tell people about it in a review.

[@TheUrbanEpicure]

Visordown Motorcycle News You said in the video that changing to fifth does fix it. Make up your mind.

[@MrMentalackack]

I can only assume you had a duff bike as I had to hold 40 in 4th gear for about 2 miles with the police behind me and the bike I had was faultless.

[@tristo2970]

This sook has never ridden a 990 Superduke R. I took the GSX out the other day and it was like butter compared to my daily. Easily bike.

[@xwojtasx100]

I had two days with this bike. First day was difficult with this power. Second day I drove 300 km in city trafic and I can say I love it! I'm 48 years old and I don't have to put ice to my pants to remember what I'm riding. If you are aware of power of this bike you will love it.

[@turbosnorpen]

i have this bike and as a previous comment mentioned this throttle issue has been blown out of proportion. before this bike i had a honda cbf650f and the throttle was way jerkier on that one, and even before that i had a triumph tiger 1050 2007 and the i reckon the triumph had about the same throttle response as the gsxs1000. the only three things that have bothered me with this bike is the gear lever being to low positioned (easily adjusted) and the stock mirrors are very loose and tend to fly around when you accelerate or break quickly (also easily adjusted) also for the first 300 miles the gearbox felt notchy but that could just be me or a break in period. hope you all have a blast riding

[@bradpapuni1412]

Hi guys just bought a 2020 gsxs1000 and the throttle is weird in the lower rpms,however this beast will give you so much power later on it just makes you smile.I had the gsxs750 for a while and it is smoother around town but its big brother is so much more.great bike for the money I am glad I made the purchase.imho.

[@outquick]

GSX-S1000 owner: I agree with most of what you had to say, but did you try to put it in C mode in the city? It kills the snatchy throttle for the most part. I live by the Tail of the Dragon 318 turns in 11.6 miles (yea I got videos on my channel), and I don’t have traffic but I use C mode to warm my tires. Thx for the read and for another great video

[@klausknudsen106]

Suzuki recomends that you use rain mode in the city, i dont know if you tryed that, but it might just soften out that response. Keep it up, cheers :)

[@bocckoka]

you should buy a Golf7 with adaptive cruise control, that would solve your constant speed adjustment problems right away.

[@tristramgordon8252]

+bocckoka Yes, maybe he should PLAY golf!

[@TrendingHeadlinesTV]

From doing my research, the power commander V takes care of the twitchy throttle and makes the GSXS 1000 a dream to ride.

[@riffsontwowheels]

I test rode it and I liked it. I rode it in a group in stop and go and around slower corners and liked it MUCH better than the FZ09. I also liked it better than the CB1000R and the Z1000. The throttle was fine. I was worried but it was fine. The environmental people want to save emissions at low rpms and I have no trouble with that. Great bike. Comfortable. Gobs of power. Looks great.

[@HillbillyonaYZ]

Since I almost never ride in town, it sounds about perfect. Plus, with quite a few years on sport bikes, most with quick throttles on them, instant response is nothing new. A comfortable seat and riding position would be something new, and I would imagine, quite a treat..

[@kingkole02]

Difference between ride by wire and ride by cable. My 1078 agusta is ride by cable with electronic assisted position. It's twitchy but you learn to ride it just fine. But your talking 170hp in town 2nd or 3rd gear only and not 30 mph in 3rd or you stall. 2nd passes into 80 something. Power commanders and O2 optimizers do help some.

[@johnnyViDeO]

Why not just ride in rain mode around town?

[@neilegan2]

u need to adjust tps to stop the snatchyness and also give ur dealer ur reg and u may be able to get a replacement ecu . I've done both and it's perfect now

[@EEEBA1]

Neil Egan I think the 2017 has an updated ECU without being snatchy.

[@elithegreat6463]

How would you compare this to a Ducati 1200S Monster in power and handling??

[@ThunderWindz]

On - Off can for the simple ammount of 300£ get fixed, by remapping the ECU. Just for info. Dont let yourself look elsewere for such an easy fix. You should always get a bike tunned in at a specialist. It makes a whole world of diffrence

[@RichDunn]

I rode the bike Saturday, straight after an FJ09 Tracer and Super Tenere. I felt the throttle response and general fueling was perfect, and much better than both Yamaha's on that day. I've ridden at least 200 motorcycles and owned over 30, so I hope I am a reasonable judge. Maybe there was a problem with this one particular bike? I'm usually very critical of motorbikes, but I genuinely couldn't find a single thing I disliked. Look at other KZbin reviews, better still ride one yourself and make your own mind up, before potentially dismissing it based purely on this single review.

[@mimimomo7982]

as a gsxs1000 and avid offroader, the snappy throttle issue is WAY exaggerated. its either pp are too used to pussified controls or simply a novice in riding, or simply plain lazy. back in the 90s when carbs dominated the scene, the snappy throttle was so much sought after. pp pay big bucks for jetting, spending hours calculating precise elevation to achieve this. back then we even own different sets of carbs in the ease for swapping jets for different elevation just to achieve that snappiness and now pp are complaining about it? what. gsxs throttle isnt really that snappy and uncontrollable. a good old well tuned xr400 with 48 rear have a even snappier response. but obviously the gearing is way shorter. now go try a yz450. this video further reinforce why poor riders should simply stay off a litre bike.

[@62blitz]

Is the ABS/traction control optional (have ability to turn off) with the 2015 model?

[@carvelli3]

The traction control can be turned off. But if it is equipped with ABS, the ABS cannot be turned off.

[@ScavengerSexy]

+carvelli3 you can take off the seat and pull out a fuse it takes only 5mins if you want switch off abs!!

[@eviltango]

would a new fuel-computer or software update mitigate the throttle response issue?

[@milesmcdonald7977]

+eviltango yes. along with removing the o2 sensor.

[@mohammadrezakhosravi5952]

what is the yaer of this motor ?

[@philipcheung3261]

anyone can advice me? i am in hong kong, can't test ride the bike in this place..... no main dealer for triumph s3..... which should i go for gsx s1000 or speed triple??❔

[@prndownload]

You have to have a triumph 3 cylinder experience at some stage in your life if you enjoy bikes. They really do earn a special place in a riders heart. Super slick inline 4's can be great too. Get both.

[@philipcheung3261]

I finally find a nice green st3. It was nice. Thanks for the advice. Not that rich to get 2 bikes ☺

[@future62]

Wish u guys added new insights to the videos instead of just reading the article over clips of riding

[@geralddyas599]

Just bought one of these 3weeks ago, never had a problem with the throttle yet, the bike is insanely quick and handles well, I prefer it over the BMW 1000r which to me isn't a bike but a computer on wheels, as for the electronic suspension where do you get parts 10 or 12 years down the line, not something you can repair in your shed. As for this review a thumbs down.

[@johnevans8836]

If it's the only bike you own you don't notice the snappy throttle. I own one and a tuono v4 as well and the gsxs is a great bike i love mine but getting on the gsxs and the tuono back to back you can tell the throttle is jumpy on the gsxs. However that being said turning the tcs on the lowest setting levels it right out.

[@ryangordon3798]

Hopefully Suzuki will get fueling right when they introduce this to the states later this year. This is one bike i'm looking at, either this or a Triumph Speed Triple

[@addicted2detail372]

sounds like it needs a tooth of the front that will assist in the labouring feel...

[@shaunroberts6025]

the bike wants to go. what's wrong with that. besides if you want to go to work at and slow speeds get a slow bike. perhaps a 125?

[@EVILSPAWN1003]

What you do is a ECU remap. I did to my 2017 and it`s a peach now

[@HotSauzZze]

What kind of remap did you make?

[@EVILSPAWN1003]

@@HotSauzZze What do you mean what kind of remap? A remap is a remap, you take your bike to the tuner shop, they have a dyno and the right computer...thing, he hooks up to the bikes ECU and changes the necessary parameters. What kind of numbers? Up from 140 wheel hp to 146 hp and 105 nm to 110 nm

[@207Richy]

Is it RBW?

[@markmiller2851]

Learn to ride I'm sick hearing about the throttle I'm 52 been riding since I was 19 nothing wrong with it.

[@shaneverrall8277]

Anyone who talks about the throttle being an issue needs there head read!! I own one and it's not and issue and once you run it in, it gets smoother and smoother... Honestly it's one of the best bikes I've ever owned... And that's bs about Suzuki only test riding flat out - I ride it every day and it's gun.. You w...kers. Need to learn how ride it.. .... What does Suzuki need to fix your skills as rider?? Ha ha

[@TheTriumfAnt]

So if you add ABS it's only £500 cheaper than the S1000R? I can't think of any reason why you'd chose the Suzuki over the BMW.

[@MrMentalackack]

Triumf Ant for me it's future repair costs BMW are not the greatest example of fault free engineering anymore. It's good they are trying new things but it's a long way off from being reliable.

[@krisrudecki9477]

You can get full hard panniers and top box for gsxs, can't for s1000r. As for repairs, bmw will cover all reliability fixes for FREE even if you're out of warranty. Got all switchgear replaced on a k1300r from 2010 last month, all free. BMW has the best service I've seen

[@seancarson9170]

Triumf Ant It would very much be up to rider preference. Styling is the most outspoken factor, but we really won't know the knit picky differing factors until a side by side road/performance test is seen. Overall I think they are strong contenders especially against each other, and I would bet we would see them close to equals and up to rider preference.

[@blipco5]

Repair and maintenance costs.

[@krisrudecki9477]

Not sure how things are where you live but my bmw dealer is 20% cheaper on labour than Suki and they offer better service, courtesy bike, free warranty repairs and all that ... and still they manage to be cheaper. I think this is an urban myth that Beemer bikes (and most cars) are so expensive to run. (M cars excluded, they are expensive ;P)

[@motobrasilusa7278]

That's exactly the problem with the throttle I'm having.. 4 months with the bike and still bother me.. I'm thinking to Sell my bike bcs that.. Any suggestions to fix that?

[@EEEBA1]

Moto Brasil USA Suzuki can update the ECU for free and throttle response is perfect.

[@blipco5]

Good review. This is the info I'm looking for. We all know it's fast enough but a choppy throttle response, for me anyway, is enough for me to not even consider a purchase. Sounds like they are going down the same road as the fuel injected Yami FZ1's.

[@ronleon62]

+blipco5 It's not choppy. It takes a little get used to you;ll have it mastered in no time.

[@chachim3014]

You can slag him if you like but he's bang on with this review. I thought he was being harsh prior to riding it, but he's 100% spot on in his verdict. I was a bit disappointed, I really wanted to buy one, but the throttle response isn't real world and put me off. The MT09 is smoother on the throttle. BUT if you didn't find that it's a great value fast machine.

[@rockafella1690]

Exactly the same experience \opinion as you mate. Was ready to buy one then test rode it....so didn't buy it.

[@chachim3014]

+rockafella1690 Yep a shame really. The MT 09 is coming out with Traction Control soon so may wait for that or buy the Tracer. Rode the Tracer and it's pretty awesome except the seat. Not a naked but still pretty sporty and good looking imo.

[@rockafella1690]

+Charlie M Yeah I heard that also about the MT09. Seems to be a few ride by wire bikes that suffer from the same issue. I ended up just buying a CB1000R instead.

[@chachim3014]

+rockafella1690 Congratulations mate. Unfortunately it isn't sold in Australian but a really nice bike. Stay upright. Cheers Charlie.

[@R3RLEE]

You didnt buy one coz of the throttle? Lol Easy fix!!

[@Jambome]

After watching several reviews all agree the throttle needs some attention. Any update on this since? Keen to know this flaw is rectified on an otherwise fantastic bike!

[@BodyRocker9]

The newer ones now have ride by wire throttle which is smoother

[@daveflood1555]

Just bought one. This review is somewhat down on because of the throttle response which I found relatively OK (try an FZ09). You wont find that Suzuki can necessary fix it because emissions regulations. Bikes these days run a lean as possible and the injection is designed to cut fuel off as soon as the throttle is cut back. This includes the BMWRR which I have rested and also has throttle jerk. One can change this with an EFI that meters the gas correctly for optium gas mix. I bought one and it was 1/2 the price of the BMW. Highly recommend this bike .

[@tristramgordon8252]

I think your review is unfair. I had a test ride on this bike, and for the whole 40 minutes, my bottom was eating my underwear. It's an a absolute hooligan. The engine is a like a puppy dog, when you say "walkies, park". It's NOT for commuting, it's for having a ball on country A roads, and goes like stink. You will ALWAYS get off the bike with a great big grin on your face. For £9,000 and absolute bargain. I have one on order.

[@John2710]

I must say I agree with review at least my experience was the same.But as I read not everybody has same expirience. Maybe bikes have different fueling regarding on market on which they sell.

[@Bass.Player]

I had a bike that was like this and I changed the throttle cam to something with more of a tapered ramp, fixed it...

[@davidmiatke6758]

I'm getting really over hearing about the BMW S1000R every time somebody reviews a bike its blah blah blah S1R. I test rode the S1R, I was so impressed with it I got a 2014 Tuono !!! and I didn't buy it putt around town and whinge about how hard it is to ride slowly otherwise I would have bought a fucking scooter! and I think Suzuki has done a good job I would have one.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Yeah I'm sure nothing any good exists between a 30 hp scooter and your 160+ hp Tuono. And everyone else is just an idiot for not liking what you like. That savory attitude of yours is why I don't like Harley riders, Ducati riders, BMW riders. The attitude soils the brand. Enjoy your unreliable bike now. I hope is scores a little higher than BMW. www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2015/04/who-makes-the-most-reliable-motorcycle/index.htm

[@GMak81]

That comment made me chuckle, nice one.

[@Tomasthe1st]

I just test rode this ride yesterday. It's way too much power for the street!

[@sahilsrivastava450]

So the throttle is a little, shall we say 'Wild'? Its a hooligan bike, much like the fz 09...shouldnt expect it to behave like a learner approved commuter bike. I'm curious if it has rider modes like the fz 09, a tame 'B' mode for when you want to relax, and not worry about holding on for dear life, and an 'A' mode for when you want to shit your pants?

[@srlewis76]

A snatchy throttle is what I want. Power at the GRIP!

[@dieholdendie]

I don't understand why you talk about this bike as a commuter to me its a fun weekend type of bike without breaking your back Talking about throttle response took up 1/2 the video what about performance/handling?

[@visordown]

dieholdendie Hi there. We covered the performance and handling in our launch report. Check it out at the link given in the description. This time we wanted to find out what the bike was like to live with for a week in the UK.

[@ldnrider342]

Such a lovely looking bike. Shame it's not the best round town.

[@ThunderWindz]

ECU map can fix that

[@federico02072]

The Suzuki is awesome! I just bought the gray non-ABS one, I paid 8,999 U.S. money for the thing. I then put on a Yoshimura Alpha slip on, on then a fender tidy kit carbon take pad and carbon side tank protector, and still out the door for 9,700. Now when people talk about the BMW or Tuono if you want to spend DUBBLE the money then go right ahead, and in the real world on real street, your not going to be walking from me in any way shape or form. I don't know of too many people that are going to spend 17,000 or 20,000 on a bike! Also the Suzuki will be more reliable and cost way less to repair. The MT09 is one ugly bike! As far as the Z1000 the Suzuki is a lot lighter out of the box then if you add the slip on, on you just dropped another 10lbs.. not to mention with out the abs version that another 6lbs lighter. OH did I mention the Z1000 is almost 12,000 U.S. Dollars? Good Job Suzuki!

[@tannerparrish3807]

I got the 2015 gsx-s750 American version, very first year and I bought it...I got the akrapovic exhaust...the thing is a beast!

[@federico02072]

I'm telling you its a torque machine

[@triv7252]

"Dubble", Jesus

[@Clint_the_Audio-Photo_Guy]

I'm always in 5th at 30mph and 6th for city cruising at 35mph. Why? Because my FZ-1 wants to go like a raped ape in 4th, lol. It's not a problem at all though, these unfaired superbikes with their torque focused cams are made for lower rpm cruising, just shift up one.

[@1990-t1j]

The ECU has been improved. The main criticism is irrelevant now. The best inline four there is.

[@UncleWally3]

"Pouring milk into a cup of tea from a bucket." Brilliant, but isn't most of what we do in life just that?

[@JackSwatman]

I thought it was based on a k5 engine?

[@visordown]

JackSwatman It's based on the 2008 GSX-R1000 engine according to Suzuki. Of course the 2008 engine may be based on the K5 one.

[@carvelli3]

Yes...it is based on the K5. Suzuki used the K5 from 2005 through 2009.

[@carvelli3]

I love the bike!

[@jdbone5299]

Why did I just listen to you complain about snatchy throttle for three minutes of a five minute review?

[@3crguy]

Its thanks to people like this that all of the bikes now are so restricted to make them "easier" or "more rider friendly".. its a damn 1000 god forbid someone get on a 1000 and think its fast.. jeez damn shame, just spent about 30 min on one in texas where we dont cry about fast throttle response i think the bike is insanely fun, maybe not as fun as you guys think a tu250 is but for me was a great bike! For those about the real 1000 bike feel i salute you!!

[@dremyofit6719]

🤣like the way you breakdown all your videos🏁, I admit you could fit all the problems, but you want it done straight out the box. Fixed my 09 2014 and love it, wish Yamaha would have done it 1st. So glad your whining for all the companies to save us the X.

[@tarmankuswana3023]

beli besok ah..

[@Chad5ter]

If you want something smoother go with the GSX-S750... The 1000 is for people who looks for fun!

[@billbright1755]

To my eye the styling is getting to far out there, I like the looks of my 91 GSX 1100 G, but I would like the extra 40 H.P. They should make a standard bike for guys like me that want that killer power but more classic lines. I don't like rear fenders on poles at all! I'd have to modify a ten grand bike out of the box just to stand the looks. No way! By the way my GSX looks and runs as new, (burgundy red) can reach 160 mph at 10,000 r.p.m.

[@TheExploited789]

How can you ride a bike for a week in London of all places and not even mention the ABS or Traction Control? Twitchy throttles are nothing new, try riding a sporty V twin.

[@theparadigmthief]

I bought a 2018 year model. The throttle is still terrible.

[@Ttnorth11]

I had one for almost a year and that was long enough. The throttle is a pain in the arse.

[@Rockybalboa541]

the review should of included more than just commuting.

[@visordown]

volcomrive Hi. You can read our full launch report at the link in the description. Thanks

[@Rockybalboa541]

Visordown Motorcycle News ok thanks

[@almas1stchild]

you are asking a flashlight to act like a laser beam. if you want a laser beam just buy a full on sport bike like a GSX-R. Any high performance engine will lug/labor at 2500 rpm. it wants to stretch its legs, not lug around town. this made no sense at all, fix it please.

[@cwinstanley5382]

Power commander always sorts this out

[@brianpreval5602]

power commander will sort it out for anyone not happy!

[@R3RLEE]

Yep take the slack out of the throttle cable!!! Sorted. Journalist my arse!

[@tarmacmenace9478]

This is the only dude that I’ve seen moan about it everybody else has loved this bike.

[@WhyteBoyy]

He has no idea that’s why! 😂 I’ve heard no one cry about it

[@petercapsanis5839]

Maybe this bloke should get a car to commute on

[@entitykeeper8869]

Can you say, Throttle Snatch"?

[@darylcadman2863]

Throttle..... East fix with a power commander

[@tomthomas2477]

guys you have learn lesson from powerdrift channel.

[@daystate123]

Never trust a ginger....they know not what they do...😂

[@RogueBrit]

K5 engine dude.....

[@TheUrbanEpicure]

Who's that unkempt hobo who wouldn't even take off his jacket in a studio? Oh, it's the Editor...

[@JackSwatman]

It just looks so boring though

[@seancarson9170]

JackSwatman I disagree. I think as far as steetfighter bikes go, its a mix between the Honda CB1000R and the Ducati 848. It has the comfortable ergo of the Honda, yet a slightly more aggressive styling of the Ducati. I think the styling is a perfect match for the streetfighter type and also for many riders out there.