In a bid to expand its offerings and cater to the ever-evolving tastes of motorcycle enthusiasts, Suzuki is gearing up to launch the GSX-S1000X in 2024, marking its entry into the world of crossover motorcycles.
- The GSX-S1000X is described as a “crossover” motorcycle, known for blending the best of both adventure and sport-tourer capable machine.
- The 2024 GSX-S1000X is set to feature the tried and tested 999c four-cylinder engine.
The GSX-S1000X, while not an adventure bike like Suzuki’s V-Strom 1050DE, aims to offer a taste of adventure without the complexities of dual-purpose suspension or specialized tires. What sets this motorcycle apart is its taller suspension, a feature borrowed from the GSX-S1000GT, giving it a distinctive style and height.
This exciting development has been officially confirmed through type approval under UNECE regulations, a requirement for motorcycles in the EU and most of Europe. The “X” designation in the bike’s name, often associated with crossover vehicles, perfectly encapsulates its spirit.
Under the hood, the GSX-S1000X shares the same 999cc four-cylinder engine as its siblings, the naked GSX-S1000 and the full-faired GSX-S1000GT. This powertrain churns out a formidable 150 hp @ 11,000 rpm and 105.6Nm @ 9,250 rpm.
It retains the aluminum-beam frame found in its counterparts, with a slightly longer wheelbase of 1470mm, likely attributed to its longer-travel fork. The overall length increases from 2138mm to 2148mm, primarily due to the taller suspension and borrowed rear bodywork and license-plate bracket from the GT.
However, the GSX-S1000X stays true to its roots with 17-inch cast alloy wheels, eschewing the larger, wire-spoked design typically seen on adventure bikes. This positions it as a competitor to Yamaha’s Tracer 9 GT+.
One of the standout features of the GSX-S1000X is its elevated stance. With the screen in its lowest position, it reaches 1290mm, extending to 1351mm when fully raised. In comparison, the GT measures 1214mm and 1280mm, respectively. It’s important to note that part of this increased height comes from a taller screen, with the fork needing only a slight extension to accommodate the growth in wheelbase and length.
The GSX-S1000X boasts a broader profile, measuring 924mm compared to the GT’s 825mm, thanks to its wider handlebars and hand guards. The mirrors are bar-mounted, in contrast to the fairing-mounted mirrors on the GT. Spy photos of a prototype spotted earlier this year reveal stacked headlights, similar to the GSX-S1000, giving it a distinct appearance.
However, these additions contribute to a higher curb weight of 231kg, compared to the GSX-S1000GT’s 225kg. The most significant change, perhaps, is the top speed, which drops from 240km/h for both the S and GT models to 215km/h on the GSX-S1000X. This reduction is likely due to electronic speed limitations, aimed at ensuring the bike’s stability at higher speeds, given its increased height.
With type approval in hand, the official unveiling of the GSX-S1000X is expected to be just a matter of weeks away. Suzuki enthusiasts and adventure-seeking riders alike can anticipate an exciting addition to the crossover motorcycle landscape.
