Suzuki’s GSX-S1000GX is a superbike on stilts!

Suzuki are moving into the long legged sports adventure bike segment for 2024 with a new four-cylinder GSX-S1000GX, based on the existing 999cc GSX-S1000GT that arrived for 2022.

As with the GT, the new GX uses Suzuki’s proven DOHC liquid-cooled four cylinder engine, which meets Euro5+ rules while promising identical power and torque figures. With a nudge over 150bhp on tap, it looks set to go up against BMW’s recently revised S1000XR and Kawasaki’s Versys 1000 family, plus Yamaha’s slightly smaller three-cylinder Tracer 9 GT+.

To achieve the GX’s taller stance, which comes complete with an 845mm seat height, Suzuki have done far more than simply stretch out the manually-adjustable springs on the GT – with the GX becoming the first motorcycle from the brand to feature electronic, semi active suspension.

Snazzily titled the Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension system (SAES), the front and rear Showa units automatically adjust on the fly to match the riding conditions beneath the Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2-shod 17in rims.

Working with wheel speed sensors and an onboard six-axis Bosch IMU, the system aims to iron out the creases in the tarmac, as well as provide stability under braking. An Auto mode is also offered for rear preload, which automatically adjusts depending on the weight being carried.

It can also be altered depending on the three riding modes. Mode A (Active) is the most aggressive and, as such, the suspension is at its firmest. Mode B (Basic) is a middle of the road choice, with everything softening off for mode C (Comfort). Riders will also have the ability to customise their settings, should they so wish.

This won’t be the first Suzuki to feature radar assisted cruise control though. Bosses told MCN it was left it off to help keep prices down, however we could well see it arrive as an update down the line.

Conventional cruise control is included though, with the switch disappointingly located on the right hand side – something we’ve previously criticised for being needlessly distracting.

You’ll also find a clear 6.5in TFT display, which can be connected to a smartphone. Devices can also be plugged into a handy USB outlet to the left of the screen.

Also included are traction control and anti-wheelie, which work together alongside a system called ‘Roll Torque Control.’ This receives data from the wheel speed sensors and IMU to subtly calculate how much power to give the rider when called upon in a corner.

Away from the electrical goodies, the GSX-S1000GX also wears a new front fairing with LED lighting, available with a choice of different screen sizes in three screw-in positions. Suzuki engineers told MCN this bike is primarily aimed at the European market and so unsurprisingly say they have gone to great lengths to ensure it protects the rider from the wind and rain.

This helps shroud a set of rubber mounted flat bars complete with handguards that are now 55mm closer and 50mm longer than on the GT. A 15mm thicker padded seat also lengthens the gap between your hip and foot – giving you more space to move and boosting comfort over distance.

We got the chance to see the bike in the flesh before the full reveal and the result is a riding position that should feel focussed and without intimidation for vast array of rider sizes.

The motor feels narrow between your legs, with an easy reach over the 19-litre fuel tank. Expect the first UK machines to reach customers at £14,499 OTR in time for Christmas.