2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT First Look

When Suzuki introduced its new GSX-S1000 earlier this year, we figured it was a matter of time before we saw a faired version to replace the GSX-S1000F. Well, Suzuki didn’t disappoint us, announcing a new 2022 GSX-S1000GT sport-tourer.

The GT will be a welcome option for those looking for a sport-touring motorcycle that looks like a sportbike instead of the recent trend of pseudo-adventure bike styling. The GSX-S1000GT’s closest competitor would probably be the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. U.S. pricing remains to be determined, but in the U.K., Suzuki priced the GSX-S1000GT at £11,599, which is close to the Ninja’s £11,299 price (£11,499 for the premium paint options). That means we should expect something close to the Ninja 1000SX’s $12,599 price tag, or a bit more if you opt for the GSX-S1000GT+ version that comes with color-matched luggage.

(UPDATE: Suzuki has announced an MSRP of $13,149 for the GSX-S1000GT and $13,799 for the GSX-S1000GT+.)

Suzuki used an iterative approach to improve aerodynamics through wind tunnel testing in developing the GT’s fairing, windscreen and mirrors. The layered fairing diverts airflow around the rider while a larger lower fork bracket cover (pictured below) was added to deflect wind that would have otherwise whirled up in front of the TFT display. The windscreen was designed to maximize wind protection while remaining relatively compact. The mirrors were also designed to cut through the air while also reducing the force of air striking the rider’s knuckles.

The GT uses a thin “monobrow” LED that sits above the low beam and high beam headlights. The taillight and the front and rear turn signals are all LEDs.

The GSX-S1000GT received many of the same features of the redesigned GSX-S1000, including its 999cc Inline-Four derived from a previous-generation GSX-R. Suzuki hasn’t released performance figures for the U.S., but in Europe, Suzuki claims an output of 150 hp at 10,000 rpm and 78 lb-ft. at 9,250 rpm, the same as the GSX-S1000. This presents a claimed 2 hp improvement but a 2 lb-ft. decrease compared to the GSX-S1000F.

The GT is equipped with the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), an assist and slipper clutch designed to prevent rear wheel hopping during deceleration and reduce clutch lever effort. The GSX-S1000GT also comes standard with a quick shift for clutch-free shifting up or down through the transmission’s six gears.

Suzuki outfitted the GSX-S1000GT with a selection of electronics including selectable drive modes, a five-mode (plus off) traction control system, and cruise control. The GT also comes with a Low RPM Assist system to prevent stalling at low engine speeds and an easy start system for starting the engine without needing to pull in the clutch lever when in neutral.

To help manage the electronics settings, the GSX-S1000GT is equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT LCD screen (a first for Suzuki) with a scratch-resistant surface and an anti-reflective coating to improve visability. The GSX-S1000GT also offers smartphone connectivity through Suzuki’s mySPIN app.

The twin-spar aluminum frame is similar to that of the GSX-S1000, but the GT has a longer subframe to better support luggage and a passenger. The GT has the same 31.9 inch seat height for the rider as the naked bike, while the pillion seat is both longer and thicker. The seats are designed to maximize comfort while also allowing freedom of movement for the rider. The fuel capacity is the same 5.0-gallons as the GSX-S1000, so we don’t expect a significant difference in range despite the GT moniker. Suzuki claims a curb weight of 498 pounds (without luggage) for the GT, a 26-pound increase over the naked GSX-S1000 and 24 pounds heavier than the GSX-S1000F’s claimed curb weight.

Up front, the GSX-S1000GT is equipped with a fully adjustable 43mm KYB inverted fork. The link-type rear suspension offers adjustable rebound damping and spring preload. Brembo supplies the dual radial-mount monoblock four-piston calipers and 310mm discs on the front wheel, while Nissin provides the single-piston rear brake. Antilock brakes come standard.

The GSX-S1000GT runs on six-spoke cast aluminum wheels that come clad in Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 radial tires custom designed for Suzuki.

The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT will be offered in a choice of Metallic Reflective Blue or Glass Sparkle Black, with the GSX-S1000GT+ adding 37L side cases with color-matched lids. Expect to see the GSX-S1000GT in showrooms in early 2022.