2021 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Launched: Looks As Sharp As A Katana

The motorcycle has been launched in the UK at an equivalent of Rs 11.42 lakh 

• The 2021 iteration of the Suzuki GSX-S1000 gets a completely new, sharper design.
• Makes 2PS more than its predecessor.
• Features a whole new suite of rider aids including a multi-level traction control system, selectable engine maps, quick-shifter, and an auto-blipper.

Suzuki has launched the 2021 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in the UK at GBP 10,999 (around Rs 11.43 lakh), making it just around Rs 31,100 dearer than its predecessor in the country. Expect the Japanese brand to launch the bike in India in the second half of this year, somewhere around October, at around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Despite commanding just a small premium over the older model in the UK, the 2021 iteration comes with several tricks up its sleeve. Firstly, it gets all-new bodywork -- a departure from the older generation bike -- which makes it look a lot sharper. The boxy all-LED headlamp accentuates the beefy tank extensions, and overall, the motorcycle looks rather unique and modern. You even get a pair of small MotoGP-inspired winglets to keep the front end down at high speeds.

More importantly, the 999cc inline four-cylinder motor has been tweaked with new intake and exhaust camshaft, new valve springs, clutch, and an exhaust system to comply with Euro 5/ BS6 emission norms. With 152PS on tap arriving at 11,000rpm, the motorcycle is 2PS more powerful than the older-generation model and has a wider spread in the low and mid-range. While the peak torque remains the same as the previous bike (108Nm at 9,500rpm), Suzuki says the torque curve is a bit flatter, which should ensure better usability. The engine comes with the same 6-speed transmission with an assist-and-slipper clutch as before, but this time around, it also gets a standard bi-directional quickshifter with an auto-blipper.

While the previous model featured just a traction control system, low-rpm assist, and a Suzuki Easy Start System, this one is updated with a new five-level switchable traction control system. It also gets a new ride-by-wire-enhanced Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) system with three engine maps: A, B and C, with A being the sportiest and C being the most forgiving. Of course, the low-rpm assist and the easy start system is offered on this motorcycle as well.

The updated engine nestles inside a twin-spar aluminium frame, linked to a revised, fully-adjustable KYB front fork and a preload and rebound-damping-adjustable rear monoshock. Braking is via the same twin 310mm discs with Brembo monobloc calipers and a rear disc with dual-channel ABS as before. The motorcycle rolls on Dunlop Roadsport 2 tyres at both ends. 

Along with new bodywork, the fuel tank is also 2 litres larger, at 19 litres. This, along with the claimed mileage of 19.68kmpl, should ensure a theoretical range of about 370km. It is also 5kg heavier than before, tipping the scales at 214kg kerb. To ensure superior ergonomics, the new handlebar is 23mm wider and 20mm closer to the rider. Though the seat is new, it is still as tall as before, at 810mm The 140mm ground clearance hasn’t changed either. While we had hoped the bike would come with a TFT console, it gets an LCD instrument cluster.

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The motorcycle will start reaching dealerships in the UK by June end. In India, it is likely to be sold via the CBU route, just like its predecessor. It will compete with the Triumph Speed Triple 1200, Kawasaki ZH2, and the upcoming Ducati Streetfighter V4.