SUZUKI has taken a bold step into the high-performance sport touring segment with the GSX-S1000GX, blending aggressive styling, cutting-edge electronics, and serious long-distance capabilities.
But how does it fare in real-world riding? I rode this machine on highways, twisty backroads and highland to find out the verdict.
The first thing that struck me about the GSX-S1000GX was the sharp, aggressive styling.
It carries the GSX-S family DNA, but the front fairing, sleek LED headlights, and aerodynamic side fairings give it a distinct presence.
Suzuki managed to make it look sporty while still being functional for touring.
The windscreen also does its job well deflecting windblasts at highway speeds.
The compact tail section keeps it looking sporty, but don’t let that fool you – this bike is built for the long haul.
Swinging a leg over the GSX-S1000GX, I immediately noticed the comfortable yet sporty riding position.
The saddle is well padded, offering good support for long rides, though it’s on the firmer side compared to more touring-focused machines.
The wide handlebar gave me great leverage and the foot pegs are situated for an engaging yet relaxed riding experience.
On the highway, I found the wind protection decent but at higher speeds, I did experience some turbulence around my helmet but nothing to worry about.
I was impressed by its smooth yet powerful inline-four engine that delivers 150hp and 106Nm of torque, enabling effortless acceleration and overtaking.
What stood out the most was the semi-active Showa suspension which constantly adjusted to road conditions.
The bike felt planted and ultra-stable, even when hitting rough stretches at high speeds.
Cruise control made long highway rides more relaxing, allowing me to focus on the ride without constantly modulating the throttle.
Despite being a sport tourer, the GSX-S1000GX surprised me with its agility around corners.
The wide handlebar make it easy to flick the bike into turns, and the suspension adapts well, keeping everything stable even under aggressive riding.
It leans in smoothly and holds its line without much drama.
I pushed it harder through some tight bends, expecting some wallowing due to its size, but the electronic suspension kept everything composed.
Taking the GSX-S1000GX into hilly roads, I really began to appreciate its GSX-R roots.
The engine pulls strongly through the mid-range and the quick shifter (both up and down) is one of the smoothest I have tried.
Blasting through the twisties, I barely had to think about gear changes — the bike just responded instantly.
While braking hard before a tight corner, I felt how well the Cornering ABS and Motion Track Traction Control work together.
Even when I pushed it aggressively, the bike remained predictable and never unsettled.
The chassis balance and suspension made this bike feel more like a sport bike than a sport tourer, which I absolutely loved.
The GSX-S1000GX is equipped with radial-mounted Brembo monobloc callipers on twin 310mm discs, and they deliver excellent stopping power.
The front brake has a strong initial bite but it’s progressive enough that I could fine-tune my braking as needed.
The rear brake is useful for small adjustments mid-corner but isn’t overly sensitive, which is exactly how I like it.
Whether I was braking from high speeds on the highway or trail braking into a corner, the brakes are well controlled and confidence-inspiring.
Testing emergency braking at high speeds, I was impressed by how composed the GSX-S1000GX remained.
The IMU-based ABS ensures the bike does not lock up or get unsettled.
Even when grabbing the brakes hard, the front end didn’t dive in excessively thanks to the adaptive suspension.
More importantly, the bike didn’t fumble under heavy braking – it just slowed down predictably and efficiently, making it a reassuring ride even in unexpected situations.
The GSX-S1000GX marks Suzuki’s first attempt at electronic suspension, and I have to say, they nailed it.
The Showa SFF-CA fork and BFRC-lite rear shock are always adjusting to conditions, meaning I never had to compromise between comfort and performance.
On the highway, the suspension soaked up bumps effortlessly.
Switching to sportier riding, it firmed up, keeping the bike stable when braking and accelerating hard.
I didn’t need to constantly tweak settings – the system did the work for me, adapting seamlessly to my riding style.
The bike features three ride modes (Active, Basic, Comfort), each offering a distinct riding vibe.
The Active Mode allows maximum throttle response and firm suspension for aggressive riding which is perfect for attacking twisty roads.
The Basic Mode, on the other hand, provides a balanced setting for everyday riding, whether on highways or city streets.
The Comfort Mode softens the suspension and induces a relaxed throttle response for long-distance cruising.
I found myself switching between Active and Basic most often, with Comfort mode coming in handy for longer rides.
After spending serious time with the RM89,900 machine, I can confidently say the GSX-S1000GX is Suzuki’s most advanced sport tourer yet.
It offers thrilling performance, a high level of comfort, and cutting-edge electronics, making it a serious rival to bikes like the BMW S1000XR and Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE.
For riders who want a machine that can take any highway, handle corners like a sport bike, and still be comfortable enough for touring, the GSX-S1000GX is a top pick.
SPECIFICATIONS
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Engine: 999cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC
Maximum power: 152hp at 11,000rpm
Maximum torque: 106Nm at 9,250rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front Showa inverted fork, adaptive damping, 150mm travel; rear Showa, link type, coil spring, adaptive damping, automatic pre-load and oil damped
Brakes: Front Brembo 4-piston monoblock callipers, dual 310mm discs with ABS; rear Nissin single-piston calliper, 240mm disc with ABS
Features: Three riding modes, motion track brake system, Susuki Road Adaptive Stabilisation (SRAB), Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES), LED headlight and position lights, automatic rear suspension modes, cornering ABS
Fuel capacity: 19 litres
Wet weight: 232kg
Price: RM89,900 (without insurance and registration)
