The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Should Be a Sharper Streetfighter
As exciting as the updated Hayabusa is, that’s not the only Suzuki motorcycle getting a refresh. For 2022, Suzuki is giving the naked GSX-S1000 a new look inspired by its MotoGP bikes. And the new design is just the beginning.
The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 isn’t a naked Gixxer, but it uses some of the same parts
If you’re a Suzuki fan, the GSX-S1000’s name might sound familiar. That’s because the ‘GSX’ appellation also appears in the Japanese brand’s sportbikes. Most notably, on the Suzuki GSX-R1000, aka the ‘Gixxer.’
However, unlike the Ducati Streetfighter and Panigale, the GSX-S1000 doesn’t have the same chassis as the GSX-R1000. Indeed, the first-gen 2016 GSX-S1000’s frame is lighter than the contemporary GSX-R’s frame, Cycle World reports. But while the naked bike isn’t a carbon copy of the sportbike, the two share some common DNA.
When Suzuki released the first-gen GSX-S1000 in 2016, the streetfighter featured an updated version of the 2005 Gixxer’s engine, Cycle World reports. Specifically, a liquid-cooled 999cc inline-four linked to a six-speed manual. This is the “almost mythical long-stroke” K5 engine, MCN reports, and it makes 148 hp and 80 lb-ft. And, in another GSX-R connection, the 2016-2020 GSX-S1000 uses the contemporary Gixxer’s swingarm.
These traditions carry over to the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000. The naked bike’s engine is essentially a heavily-revised Euro5-compliant version of the outgoing powerplant, RideApart reports. These revisions mean it now makes 150 hp and 78 lb-ft. However, while the engine makes slightly less torque, the peak comes lower in the rev range. As a result, Suzuki claims the streetfighter’s 0-124 mph time is slightly lower.
Also, as before, the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 uses the current GSX-R1000’s aluminum swingarm, Ultimate Motorcycling reports. Together with the aluminum frame that gives the GSX-S1000 a 472-lb curb weight.
What else is new on the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000?
Suzuki didn’t just tweak the engine and styling on the GSX-S1000 for 2022, though. The naked bike has wider and higher handlebars to give a more upright riding position, RideApart reports. Suzuki also fitted a new seat and narrowed the fuel tank to make it easier to grip. But despite being narrower, the 2022 GSX-S1000’s fuel tank is actually larger, MCN reports.
As before, the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 has a six-speed manual. Only now it has a slipper-assist clutch and an electronic quickshifter, Rider reports. The naked bike also comes with standard ABS, Brembo brakes, low-RPM assist, traction control, and multiple riding modes. Plus, Suzuki’s ‘Easy Start’ feature means you don’t have to pull in the clutch to start the GSX-S1000, as long as you’re in Neutral.
As before, the 2022 GSX-S1000 has fully adjustable KYB suspension, Cycle World and RideApart report. However, while the outgoing GSX-S1000 had partial LED lighting, the 2022 model has full LED lighting. And it has an updated LCD instrument panel along with new wheels and tires.
How much does it cost?
As of this writing, Suzuki hasn’t announced pricing details for the 2022 GSX-S1000. However, for comparison, the outgoing model started at just under $11.1k, Cycle World reports. And the current GSX-R1000 starts at $15,799.
However, we do have a rough availability: Suzuki claims the 2022 GSX-S1000 should hit dealers in fall 2021. At which point, the Yamaha MT-09 might have another significant rival on its hands.
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