My son has had the GT version for just over a year and put on around 20,000km. He recently added bar end weights to kill that vibration, and just ordered a new seat for it. After a couple of longer rides we have done together this spring, my new Versys 650 LT has proven to be much more comfortable in stock configuration than his. And here in Newfoundland, I'm sure grip warmers are appreciated even more than in the UK.
I have the GT ..Absolutely love it.. Very comfy, not top heavy, very manageable weight , low centre of gravity, hardly any vibe...(it's a four cylinder after all).... Very smooth, lovely torque and versatile throughout the range... Quick shifter is the best I've ever tried... I don't need any more electronics than this already has.. I've been riding for 50 years.. and in my opinion a motorcycle must give me two thing's to make me love it ... "Comfort and Confidence".. The GT does that.. Gripes: Should have as standard ..heated grips, adjustable screen, centre stand, rear rack, and both front light's should be on together.. PS: Your the best reviewer out there..🙂
THX. It is refreshing getting an honest opinion. Too many of these reviewers are to scared to talk about the vibrations and nut crackers etc. They might be in danger not to be invited to EICMA or get long term bikes for reviews. V-Told went through this and he is not part of the "clan" anymore. Your honesty is much appreciated.
I brought this bike recently and love it , had back surgery in January and this bike is much better than my old GSXS750 .... Was surprised you gave a thumbs down 😅
I love these real life honest reviews, consistent week on week, so if someone is looking new or secondhand in a couple of years time they make such a useful reference. If the GT had the same headlight and suspension setup I may well have gone for it over the 1000sx, they have certainly made quite few improvements although the dash layout is a bit messy. Totally agree about seat heights, I love being able to put both feet flat on the floor on my sx.
Susuzki are outstanding motorcycles, some of the best, on par with Honda. But their unusual "Sci-Fi" styling is going to ruin their entire motorcycle business in North America. They need to hire some American and English design engineers, to consult them on how to actually design the motorcycle. First, it needs two large headlights, that are positioned horizontally, to give a wide angle of view. Their strange stacked headlight design is just not practical for a motorcycle that is meant to be actually ridden.
Great review Andy, I can't help thinking Suzuki often miss the mark with a lot of their bikes. Putting the gucci suspension and rider modes on the proven vstrom 1050 would have got my vote and would still have been cheaper than the competition I'm thinking, love that v twin engine.
Very good point , i have the 1050 xt which is a fabulous all rounder but a quick shifter and active suspension would make it a top contender I also have a GSX S 1000 on a 21 plate which is kitted out with sw motech removable panniers and pyramid screen. Again a great sporty all rounder , very comfortable and no discernible vibration Suzuki gets a bad rap but the GX is not £5000 worse than the BMW S1000 XR
A nice succinct review and from the short ride I had here in Oz agree with most of the points you brought up. I went in thinking this was a good chance of being perfect for me returning riding after enjoying GSX's back in the 80's. The bike steers beautifully and I could quite see myself getting into trouble it was so much fun. Suspension rode nicely for me set on the rider with luggage setting . I'm a big boy these days 🤷🏻♂ However at six foot tall the riding position was a little cramped for me, the comfort seat might make a bit of a difference but wasn't available to try. The mirrors were unusable at legal freeway speeds and the wind turbulence at same speeds was a worry so some fiddling with screen height or replacement would be needed for me. I felt like I'd like a slightly higher top gear so that things felt a little more relaxed . On the whole though a lovely bike and I may revisit it in a couple of years to see if Suzuki has tweaked a few things. Thanks again for your great reviews 👍
Same problem as my versys 1000 ,roll forward onto your nads as you say 😆..very similar bikes in many ways ,tourer not adventure tourer…great review again 👍
Nicely done TMF. I appreciate that bikes are made for global markets however I don't understand why seat heights need to be so tall as standard. The average height for a male in the UK is 5'10" and for a female, it's 5'3". I would imagine those in the Asian / Indian market are likely to be shorter than that. I'm a both feet down rider and these taller bikes are simply out of my comfort zone at 5'9". Cheers.
I’m 5ft 10” and can flat foot my bmw gsa , my mate however is the same height and he’s on tip toes with his because he’s got a long torso and short legs 😂
It’s not just seat height but overall weight and centre of gravity. Bikes are getting bigger and heavier because of emissions regs forcing manufacturers to raise cc to deliver the same power. There’s no need for a bike to weigh more than 200Kg and still be everything you need. Bikes like this that are a step down from the top end bikes are still 230Kg plus - too lardy!
the bike targets a certain lean angle and ground clearance. this forces the pegs to be x far off the ground. you then target a certain rider triangle. this forces the seat to be y much above the pegs. you can lower the seat. but that impacts ground clearance, suspension travel and lean angle or it impacts knee angle.
You could of left the preload in “Auto” rather than rider only. When the preload is in auto it also has a bias input into the damping. I’m not sure why Suzuki added the manual preload settings too? Choice I guess but I think most owners would be better of in the Auto setting a la modern GS’s, Tigers and the like.
On their website in Canada they want $640 for heated grips.... a set of oxford grips are like $140 for comparison. For $3000 more you can buy the Triumph Tiger GT PRO. Suzuki used to be a manufacturer that was affordable. i guess now that is not the case, even though they seem to have been about 5 years late to the market with new bikes.
Another great real life review, so thank you Mr. Flyer for that. Sounds as if it's one of those 'upgrades' that doesn't seem worth the extra £2,000. I notice the vibes seem to distort the TFT just over 60mph making it unreadable too......🤣🤣.
Nice looking bike, while you were going over the specs, seemed you could tell the seat was higher in the back and it could be my eyes. Thank you sir for the reviews it is much appreciated.
I really enjoyed that video, must give one of these a test! BUT what really stood out to me was your comment about the smell of weed; you're absolutely right and I was saying this to a friend the other day. It's really disconcerting isn't it??
I had a Gt for 18000kms - had the Suspension tuned for my weight and riding style and a Nitron rear Shock - a great bike except for the well documented Wind Blast which could not be solved after trying 3 different screens and visors, plus Aussie roads are probably worse than UK roads so the short suspension on the GT made me feel beat up after a 400km day. Except for the looks (The GT is Better) I agree with everything else you said about the ride on the GX - very disappointing - After the test ride I couldn't wait to get back on my Vstrom 1050 - now I know why the dealer had the GX hidden away up the back of the showroom!
Agree with you Andy, I kept sliding down seat into the tank. yes it is tingly. I Thought the suspension felt weird to . Brought a V Strom instead well pleased.
I like the look of this, prefer the upright position. Currently ride an old GS I've had for over 10 years but bought it for touring as opposed to adventure riding. The new GS is nice but to pricey and i dont like the lack of central rear light. Always thought my old Gsxr1100 engine in my GS would be nice, seems Suzuki thought along the same lines! Need to visit my local Suzuki dealer and try one out, you've inspired me lol
Same here. Also looking for a replacement for my good old GS. Would like to testride this Suzuki also. Regarding the GS and lack of rearlight. I have seen a few people who have added a Denali B6 rearlight together with a Hex EZcan (brake and rearlight combined)
Great show as always, thank you very much. When Suzuki introduced this model some months ago I was very happy as there are not many models in this "crossover sports tourer" category available, but I was sobered like you after I rode it. I miss my 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport 1050 which to me was the best model in this category. Wish Triumph would revive it.
@@RealHooksy The Tiger 850 Sport is a complete different type of bike. It doesn't have 17" front wheel, it has the off-road look and lacks at least 40 horses. And it's not available in many European countries. It's just a slimmed down version of the Tiger 900
Hi Andy, I quite like the looks of the bike except the headlights section; i prefer two headlights next to each other. The tail end isn’t that bad. It’s a Suzuki so it’s very easy to use, ride etc. Lots of bike for the money. The saddle is probably variable in height. Try the lowest one. Hooray, today was the first dry day in a long time with 21°C and was also ages ago. Yesterday we had 22mm of rain.
Looks decent, but the screen looks a tad on the small side for comfort on a long touring ride ? Like the swing arm though, that looks very industrial and ugly on my Versys 1K
Enjoyed this review Andy. A good looking bike and a decent package for the money compared to the competition. Pity about the comfort, which for me is essential.
great looking bike from suzuki, the 800re is meant to be amazing too although it looks a bit dull, the 8r too gets great reviews shame we dont get the yellow version here, nice to see suzuki out of hibernation finally
Good review. I will stick to my Diavel V4. The ride height can be an issue when fully loaded up, like you indicated somewhat in this review. I think I would prefer a V4 Multistrada or GS1250 or 1300, if I was going for this style of bike.
I've lowered the footpegs and fitted helibars to a 2016 GSXR1000. Turned it into a super comfortable sports tourer and I'm 1.93 m tall (6ft 3in). Engine in my bike is a newer design than the GX and the stock handling is utterly brilliant. It looks way better than the GX too. Newer is not always better imo.
Agreed. Make it the same tech spec as the GT+ but with the upright fairing/riding position. I don't care about electronic suspension. Just give me cruise control, fully adjustable suspension, adjustable windscreen (on the fly would be nice!).
Looks interesting, would like a test ride, why couldn't Suzuki have put this cruise control on the 800re though? would have cost them very little and made the bike so much more attractive?
I was quite impressed by this as a rival for the Tracer 9 GT+ but without an OE top box it’s just not really the same is it? Any idea why Suzuki have decided not to offer it?
Thanks Andy, I bought the Ninja 1000sx (saw your review on that too - thanks), done 3k on it and really happy. I didn’t buy the Suzuki GT or GX because of the comfort angle. Qq if you can overtake slow moving vehicles on double whites can you filter on them (I don’t bit some do)? Thanks again Dave
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ , the BMW S1000 XR, are bikes that integrate this new segment of called crossover sport touring bikes. I wonder if Suzuki with the design of the forward inclined seat and with all the vibrations, wanted to add an extra feature: - a prostate massage device 😅 I personally dismiss it. I think that said gland should be kept in peace 🤣 Nice review though. Thanks Andy👌🏻
Is it me, or does that off center black thing on the clutch just ruin the looks? I mean its not a deal breaker, and i cannot see in when you are riding, but i am going to see it every time... This is right up my street as well.
Hi, Any chance of you starting a "Report a pot hole campaign" Sir? Did you know if you destroy your front wheel in a pot hole the council are not to blame if the pothole has not been reported to them previously...ask me how I know. I got away lucky with a £1200.00 bill, wheel and tyre, and a sore neck. To get my own back I am spending a month reporting every pothole I see in my small part of Hampshire.
I like the look of it Andy, it has a influences from Ducati, Yamaha & Triumph in the overall design. Its going to appeal to a wide range of riders. Re the seat height. Why havent bike manufacturers used a device like car seat lumbar so you can adjust the seat height. Thats too tall for me at 5'8" Great, thorough review as always.
I love the look of this bike and think it would be perfect for me but as I am only just learning to ride do you think it's too powerful as a first big bike?
@@TheMissendenFlyer don't be sorry! Thank you for your honesty I will go back to looking at a second hand tiger 660 or a tracer 7, love the channel keep up the great content
I liked the look of it when I saw it in a shop . The price in Australia is way too high for a Japanese tourer. I note the lack of heated grips, Even my way cheaper and more comfortable Kymco AK550 Premium scooter came with standard heated grips and cruise control.
Interesting review & bike. It seems Suzuki have tried to fuse old & new tech & it hasn't quite worked. Sounds like a few tweaks & a bit more refinement is needed.
How odd the seat tips you into the tank. It looks flat or even slightly lower at the rear from the side - is it an issue with the padding, width or maybe adjustment? I must admit I’m not loving the look. To me the GT, pointy front end included, looks much nicer. This looks like a design mess with several different ideas mashed into one. Also no need at all to be off-road bike seat height. The elephant in the room is the Tracer 9 GT/+ - similar money with a lot more as standard. The power difference won’t mean anything to most buyers as the CP3 engine is a peach.
My Hornet is a twin and the quick shifter works really well on that🤔 just read in MCN that Suzuki sells figures are really poor despite all the new models out like this and the GSX8R. I wonder why people don't seem to be buying their bikes in the UK?
Its because those two bikes you mentioned is basilly all they have been arsed to do...no gsxr's, GT looked promising and they butcherd it to this, and no proper middle weight range. Yamaha, kawasaki and Honda doing much better with their bike range.
Somone from America needs to have a sit down discussion with Suzuki, to give them a proper lecture about properly using their 1340cc inline 4 cylinder Hayabusa engine with all it's immense torque, oil sprayed pistons, strengthened internals, and counterbalancer, in an ADV--sport touring bike with a tall adjustable windscreen, large dual headlights, and none of the "Sci-Fi" plastic pieces from a bad 1980's movie. OH, and an OVERDRIVE, a real overdrive, one that actually reduces the engine RPM's to near idle at 79mph.
Something like a Suzuki made Super Tenere without the off-road capability. The GX seems like a modernized FZ1 and those were excellent bikes. Personally, I'd pass on the Busa engine. 150hp and 45mpg is plenty for me. I'd prefer 125hp and 55mpg but I can see why others wouldn't.
The GT was very comfy on the front for me, for a sports router though the pillion seat was very small and didn't look very comfy, the GX looks much better for that.
I hated the screen may be my height 6-3 and I thought a mode was snappy as hell and b mode was to tame other than that I’m pretty much in agreement with everything else you can get grips for around 400 and a centre stand for around 450-500 so it lumps in the already tasty price straight away the grips worked well but the controls were annoying though they had to start on the highest setting I believe then you hold it then they flash twice for middle then hold again and flash once for lowest not the end of the world but not as seamless as others
I agree. I had an exhaust and tune done on my GT, 138hp at the wheel, so about 162 engine, and an increase of 6 ft lbs, better pads, still a little wooden but ultimately, I've never had an issue in over 22k miles.
@triv7252 From riding my friends GT, it was night n day different from standard and then having the exhaust a tune. Don't forget, every new bike is heavily restricted in power, torque, and throttle restrictions due to Euro 5.
Being tall I really thought this bike could tempt me away from my brilliant MT10. Unfortunately, just sitting on this bike, I didn’t like the feel and comfort of the seat. It also has more tech and electronics than I need. No chance of this becoming a part of the TMF garage then👍
Hmm bit of a mixed bag that one. Suzukis recent tongue twisting naming nomenclature is almost enough to put me off this already but the needlessly extravagant electronics package and cheesy TFT is a deal breaker for me - just all getting WAY to complicated nowadays. When you listed the electronics I started to lose interest and my life force started to leave me...... Edit: Huge electronics package and no heated grips? What were you thinking Suzuki?
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT and Plus seat did it to me. It was a nut cracker. Main reason I didn't buy it. Seems to me if you are less than 100kg's, that happens, slide forward.
It looks like a sports tourer that wants to be an adventure bike but doesn’t quite get there. I guess it’s what Suzuki wanted. It looks like the vibes affect the TFT at higher revs as well (😂😂😂😂). BTW you forgot “the small print” in this video.
"Do you want a heavy, buzzy nad-crusher and freezing cold hands? Buy the GSX100GX. Only fourteen thousand pounds"😂 In fairness, by Multistrada 1200s's seat does the same thing, but I got used to it after a week and it's all-day comfortable. No buzzes however, HOT grips and I find it easy to move around. I paid less than half the price of the Suzuki (with 15k miles, FDSH) and got twice the bike. Buy used, people!
It is indeed a nice looking bike but...I think the pricing is wrong. I don't say that it doesn't worth it or is not build to a high standard but i think they overpriced it by £3K give or take. Yes it does look better than the GT model but it is essentially the same bike. On this price range i would go for a Tracer 9 GT+ which has more technology and it looks more premium,i know is a slower bike but that's what i think. If Yamaha wake up one day and produce a CP4 engine tourer most likely would be £ 17K but that's another topic. Nice video Andy,if you are a living human and not AI reply with a smile hahaha
@DaleMt09sp Oh damn ! Thanks for the info. Well,3 Cyl 117hp vs 148 inline 4. In theory the Suzuki should be faster in terms of acceleration, similar.weight etc
@@zidisrider132mph they got to I think it’s limited I did have a go of the Suzuki and when it’s singing it isn’t slow needs winding up the range though
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and to be honest TMF in my eye it’s horrible. Still better than the hideous R1300GS though. Great video 👍
That green is the same colour as cigarette packets and was chosen because research showed it to be the most deterrant colour to a potential smoker , so why would you choose the same colour I’m assuming to make a motorcycle more attractive to potential buyers
From the '70s on, Japanese manufacturers made excellent shaft-drive bikes but for some reason - just as they're trying to get back into the touring market - they're only offering chains. They can all see how well BMW does in this area so why not just copy the formula? Not putting heated grips on a touring bike suggests they're not taking the brief seriously. As for the seat/tank arrangement, are you sure you don't have abnormally large balls? If the answer's no, then this could be another deal-breaker (and ball-breaker). I see the gnomes are out in force in the comments complaining about seat height. For the sake of balance I'd like to request taller seats to give tall people more comfort over longer distances.Cheers!
Agree absolutely. Could Suzuki please remake the GS850G on which I toured Europe 2-up 40 years ago? Smooth inline 4, shaft drive, comfy low, flat seat which put the pillion BEHIND, not ABOVE, and of course totally reliable.
@@josephlarmor550 Yep, that was one of the bikes I was thinking of. Japanese manufacturers used to have a very sure touch but they seem to have lost it.
@@trailingarm63 Funny thing is, my GS850 had just 78bhp but it never felt under-powered even touring 2-up with a Rickman fairing & panniers full of stuff, and a tent on the rear carrier! I’m always amused when motorcycling journalists criticise my Versys 1000 because it has “only” 120bhp. They miss the point that Kawasaki bravely put ease of use, comfort and torque for touring above outright power. Yet this fantastic bike is viewed as an also-ran. The relentless pursuit of horsepower has resulted in a loss of focus on what people really want. Even BMW are guilty, I remember years ago thinking the R90RS had taken their pre-WW2 flat twin as far as it could go, but now we have the GS1300, and god help us the R18!
@@josephlarmor550 In the 1980s my CX500 only had about 50 bhp, but it felt plenty powerful having come up from a 250. Great for touring two-up across France, etc. But all traffic has got much faster over the decades and you have to accept change gracefully. I think anywhere from 100 to 150 bhp with good torque is now the right place to be. My RT1250 has 136 bhp and variable valve timing which has cured the boxer's tendency to run out of puff and power near the redline. It's great. There is a gap in the market for a "cheap RT" but it needs shaft-drive, heated grips, cruise control, weather protection and a large, comfy seat for rider and pillion. It doesn't need "modes", TFT screen, quick-shifter or electronic suspension.
@@trailingarm63 How interesting, my first touring trips to Europe were also on a CX500. A water-cooled shaft-drive V-twin, from a manufacturer previously known for air-cooled inline fours, it was perfect for touring. Funny how the motorcycling press turned against it, probably it was too popular and therefore not perceived to be sufficiently exotic. I fitted Rickman panniers and fairing, and took it across Europe two-up, never had an issue. Subsequently fitted the same kit to my GS850. Happy memories!
I personally just don't get Suzuki's marketing strategy (If they have one)as they seem to replace models in this category every year, it's as if they can't make their mind up and have no medium to long term plan for this segment which must be frustrating (and costly) for owners who've bought the previous latest incarnation. Compare that with say Kawasaki who have been producing the Z1000SX for over 10 years now? New owners know what they're getting and those who have one know their existing SX hasn't become obsolete overnight so is still worth something on trade in.
I agree, always been a Suzuki fan, but at the moment they seem all over the place with what bikes they are selling and no gsxr range is just so wrong..
My son has had the GT version for just over a year and put on around 20,000km. He recently added bar end weights to kill that vibration, and just ordered a new seat for it. After a couple of longer rides we have done together this spring, my new Versys 650 LT has proven to be much more comfortable in stock configuration than his. And here in Newfoundland, I'm sure grip warmers are appreciated even more than in the UK.
Well the versys 650 is extremely comfortable, the GX has a more nakedish seating position.
I have the GT ..Absolutely love it.. Very comfy, not top heavy, very manageable weight , low centre of gravity, hardly any vibe...(it's a four cylinder after all).... Very smooth, lovely torque and versatile throughout the range... Quick shifter is the best I've ever tried... I don't need any more electronics than this already has..
I've been riding for 50 years.. and in my opinion a motorcycle must give me two thing's to make me love it ... "Comfort and Confidence".. The GT does that..
Gripes:
Should have as standard ..heated grips, adjustable screen, centre stand, rear rack, and both front light's should be on together..
PS: Your the best reviewer out there..🙂
Aww shucks [blush] - Glad you're loving the bike!
THX. It is refreshing getting an honest opinion. Too many of these reviewers are to scared to talk about the vibrations and nut crackers etc. They might be in danger not to be invited to EICMA or get long term bikes for reviews. V-Told went through this and he is not part of the "clan" anymore. Your honesty is much appreciated.
Thank you
😂 ball squasher and tingler 🎉 i cant wait to give one a ride now
I brought this bike recently and love it , had back surgery in January and this bike is much better than my old GSXS750 .... Was surprised you gave a thumbs down 😅
TMF is just spoiled...complains like an old hag atm. "tickes ma finga..>" his reviews are pathetic.
I love these real life honest reviews, consistent week on week, so if someone is looking new or secondhand in a couple of years time they make such a useful reference. If the GT had the same headlight and suspension setup I may well have gone for it over the 1000sx, they have certainly made quite few improvements although the dash layout is a bit messy. Totally agree about seat heights, I love being able to put both feet flat on the floor on my sx.
Yes makes all the difference to your confidence doesn’t it - and thanks for the kind comments, much appreciated!
Very nice looking bike. Love the uprightness. Best of both worlds I think.
Susuzki are outstanding motorcycles, some of the best, on par with Honda. But their unusual "Sci-Fi" styling is going to ruin their entire motorcycle business in North America. They need to hire some American and English design engineers, to consult them on how to actually design the motorcycle. First, it needs two large headlights, that are positioned horizontally, to give a wide angle of view. Their strange stacked headlight design is just not practical for a motorcycle that is meant to be actually ridden.
Sat on one , very ergonomically correct for a 174cm rider with a 29inch inseam , also build quality appeared very good
Great review Andy, I can't help thinking Suzuki often miss the mark with a lot of their bikes. Putting the gucci suspension and rider modes on the proven vstrom 1050 would have got my vote and would still have been cheaper than the competition I'm thinking, love that v twin engine.
Very good point , i have the 1050 xt which is a fabulous all rounder but a quick shifter and active suspension would make it a top contender
I also have a GSX S 1000 on a 21 plate which is kitted out with sw motech removable panniers and pyramid screen. Again a great sporty all rounder , very comfortable and no discernible vibration
Suzuki gets a bad rap but the GX is not £5000 worse than the BMW S1000 XR
A nice succinct review and from the short ride I had here in Oz agree with most of the points you brought up.
I went in thinking this was a good chance of being perfect for me returning riding after enjoying GSX's back in the 80's.
The bike steers beautifully and I could quite see myself getting into trouble it was so much fun.
Suspension rode nicely for me set on the rider with luggage setting . I'm a big boy these days 🤷🏻♂
However at six foot tall the riding position was a little cramped for me, the comfort seat might make a bit of a difference but wasn't available to try.
The mirrors were unusable at legal freeway speeds and the wind turbulence at same speeds was a worry so some fiddling with screen height or replacement would be needed for me.
I felt like I'd like a slightly higher top gear so that things felt a little more relaxed .
On the whole though a lovely bike and I may revisit it in a couple of years to see if Suzuki has tweaked a few things.
Thanks again for your great reviews 👍
Same problem as my versys 1000 ,roll forward onto your nads as you say 😆..very similar bikes in many ways ,tourer not adventure tourer…great review again 👍
Nicely done TMF. I appreciate that bikes are made for global markets however I don't understand why seat heights need to be so tall as standard. The average height for a male in the UK is 5'10" and for a female, it's 5'3". I would imagine those in the Asian / Indian market are likely to be shorter than that. I'm a both feet down rider and these taller bikes are simply out of my comfort zone at 5'9". Cheers.
My thoughts exactly!
I’m 5ft 10” and can flat foot my bmw gsa , my mate however is the same height and he’s on tip toes with his because he’s got a long torso and short legs 😂
@@julianmorris9951ducks disease 😂
It’s not just seat height but overall weight and centre of gravity. Bikes are getting bigger and heavier because of emissions regs forcing manufacturers to raise cc to deliver the same power. There’s no need for a bike to weigh more than 200Kg and still be everything you need. Bikes like this that are a step down from the top end bikes are still 230Kg plus - too lardy!
the bike targets a certain lean angle and ground clearance. this forces the pegs to be x far off the ground.
you then target a certain rider triangle. this forces the seat to be y much above the pegs.
you can lower the seat. but that impacts ground clearance, suspension travel and lean angle or it impacts knee angle.
You could of left the preload in “Auto” rather than rider only. When the preload is in auto it also has a bias input into the damping. I’m not sure why Suzuki added the manual preload settings too? Choice I guess but I think most owners would be better of in the Auto setting a la modern GS’s, Tigers and the like.
As I 6ft2 rider I love the GX seat tbh.
Way back in the miss of time Yamaha tried this with the Tdm and TX models, didn't think they sold well, now is a different time, looks interesting.
Hmm interesting Andy ive not noticed much in the way of vibes.. Think ive been riding too many four cylinder BMW'S! haha
The mirrors don’t work chops it’s obviously vibing somewhere 😂
On their website in Canada they want $640 for heated grips.... a set of oxford grips are like $140 for comparison. For $3000 more you can buy the Triumph Tiger GT PRO. Suzuki used to be a manufacturer that was affordable. i guess now that is not the case, even though they seem to have been about 5 years late to the market with new bikes.
Another great real life review, so thank you Mr. Flyer for that. Sounds as if it's one of those 'upgrades' that doesn't seem worth the extra £2,000. I notice the vibes seem to distort the TFT just over 60mph making it unreadable too......🤣🤣.
Nice looking bike, while you were going over the specs, seemed you could tell the seat was higher in the back and it could be my eyes. Thank you sir for the reviews it is much appreciated.
My pleasure!
Great review andy what bike in that category is than the suzuki gx then thanks ❤
I really enjoyed that video, must give one of these a test! BUT what really stood out to me was your comment about the smell of weed; you're absolutely right and I was saying this to a friend the other day. It's really disconcerting isn't it??
Sure is!
I had a Gt for 18000kms - had the Suspension tuned for my weight and riding style and a Nitron rear Shock - a great bike except for the well documented Wind Blast which could not be solved after trying 3 different screens and visors, plus Aussie roads are probably worse than UK roads so the short suspension on the GT made me feel beat up after a 400km day. Except for the looks (The GT is Better) I agree with everything else you said about the ride on the GX - very disappointing - After the test ride I couldn't wait to get back on my Vstrom 1050 - now I know why the dealer had the GX hidden away up the back of the showroom!
Agree with you Andy, I kept sliding down seat into the tank. yes it is tingly. I Thought the suspension felt weird to . Brought a V Strom instead well pleased.
Glad it’s not just me!
I like the look of this, prefer the upright position. Currently ride an old GS I've had for over 10 years but bought it for touring as opposed to adventure riding. The new GS is nice but to pricey and i dont like the lack of central rear light. Always thought my old Gsxr1100 engine in my GS would be nice, seems Suzuki thought along the same lines! Need to visit my local Suzuki dealer and try one out, you've inspired me lol
Same here. Also looking for a replacement for my good old GS. Would like to testride this Suzuki also. Regarding the GS and lack of rearlight. I have seen a few people who have added a Denali B6 rearlight together with a Hex EZcan (brake and rearlight combined)
Looks like a Versys and has the same nads into the tank seat. I had my seat redone and fixed that problem plus moved the hump back 2"...
Great show as always, thank you very much.
When Suzuki introduced this model some months ago I was very happy as there are not many models in this "crossover sports tourer" category available, but I was sobered like you after I rode it. I miss my 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport 1050 which to me was the best model in this category. Wish Triumph would revive it.
Yes I loved the 1050 too…
They make a Tiger 850 sport for that purpose now.
Road biased version of the adventure bike.
@@RealHooksy The Tiger 850 Sport is a complete different type of bike. It doesn't have 17" front wheel, it has the off-road look and lacks at least 40 horses. And it's not available in many European countries. It's just a slimmed down version of the Tiger 900
Hi Andy,
I quite like the looks of the bike except the headlights section; i prefer two headlights next to each other. The tail end isn’t that bad.
It’s a Suzuki so it’s very easy to use, ride etc. Lots of bike for the money.
The saddle is probably variable in height. Try the lowest one.
Hooray, today was the first dry day in a long time with 21°C and was also ages ago. Yesterday we had 22mm of rain.
Great honest review
Good to see you in wales at the ponderosa on the weekend, thanks for the photo 👍
My pleasure Dave - lovely to meet you!
Looks decent, but the screen looks a tad on the small side for comfort on a long touring ride ? Like the swing arm though, that looks very industrial and ugly on my Versys 1K
I felt like I was pitched forward on my Deauville when I first got it in 2015, and dialing back the rear preload sorted it out.
Thanks for the review! Cheers from Texas.
Enjoyed this review Andy. A good looking bike and a decent package for the money compared to the competition. Pity about the comfort, which for me is essential.
Totally agree
Good review compared to others on it more honest. I liked the look but as 5ft 6 too tall too heavy l will keep my BMW 1250rs😊
Thank you for watching!
great looking bike from suzuki, the 800re is meant to be amazing too although it looks a bit dull, the 8r too gets great reviews shame we dont get the yellow version here, nice to see suzuki out of hibernation finally
Good review. I will stick to my Diavel V4. The ride height can be an issue when fully loaded up, like you indicated somewhat in this review. I think I would prefer a V4 Multistrada or GS1250 or 1300, if I was going for this style of bike.
I've lowered the footpegs and fitted helibars to a 2016 GSXR1000. Turned it into a super comfortable sports tourer and I'm 1.93 m tall (6ft 3in). Engine in my bike is a newer design than the GX and the stock handling is utterly brilliant. It looks way better than the GX too. Newer is not always better imo.
I agree...
GT was also definitely vibey through the seat when I test rode it.
I think Suzuki should offer a lower spec version without the electronic suspension and drop the price to suit. Kawasaki do it with the Versys1000.
Agreed. Make it the same tech spec as the GT+ but with the upright fairing/riding position. I don't care about electronic suspension. Just give me cruise control, fully adjustable suspension, adjustable windscreen (on the fly would be nice!).
Hmmm it's very Kawasaki Versys looking don't you think Andy ?
Not really no….
Great vid as usual,very informative 👍
Thanks 👍
Looks interesting, would like a test ride, why couldn't Suzuki have put this cruise control on the 800re though? would have cost them very little and made the bike so much more attractive?
I was quite impressed by this as a rival for the Tracer 9 GT+ but without an OE top box it’s just not really the same is it? Any idea why Suzuki have decided not to offer it?
The seat/tank position sounds similar to Kawasaki Versys 650. Do they not have folks test ride the bikes before mass production?
Thanks Andy, I bought the Ninja 1000sx (saw your review on that too - thanks), done 3k on it and really happy. I didn’t buy the Suzuki GT or GX because of the comfort angle.
Qq if you can overtake slow moving vehicles on double whites can you filter on them (I don’t bit some do)?
Thanks again
Dave
No - unless you can get past without any part of your bike going over the solid white line…
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ , the BMW S1000 XR, are bikes that integrate this new segment of called crossover sport touring bikes.
I wonder if Suzuki with the design of the forward inclined seat and with all the vibrations, wanted to add an extra feature:
- a prostate massage device 😅
I personally dismiss it. I think that said gland should be kept in peace 🤣
Nice review though. Thanks Andy👌🏻
Is it me, or does that off center black thing on the clutch just ruin the looks? I mean its not a deal breaker, and i cannot see in when you are riding, but i am going to see it every time...
This is right up my street as well.
Been hoping you’d review this bike. I’m thinking of buying one, so interested in your options.
Hi, Any chance of you starting a "Report a pot hole campaign" Sir? Did you know if you destroy your front wheel in a pot hole the council are not to blame if the pothole has not been reported to them previously...ask me how I know. I got away lucky with a £1200.00 bill, wheel and tyre, and a sore neck. To get my own back I am spending a month reporting every pothole I see in my small part of Hampshire.
Yikes!!
If you spray willies around them the holes get filled in quicker than pornhub. That would be illegal though so I wouldn't recommend it.
@@TheMissendenFlyer How about a "Report a pot head" campaign for those drivers!
Your preference in comparing the Suzuki GT and GS to the Zawasaki 1000sx ?
Kawasaki wins!
Hmm, strange for a Suzuki four to 'shake' across the range . . . is the drive chain a tad too tight? : )
Ahh, also love a relaxing TMF with the morning brew ❤
Delighted to hear that! Thank you…
With the seat canting you forward, did it put any pressure on the shoulders, neck and wrists per chance?
On the wrists - really noticeable - oddly more than the GT - also you slide up and down the seat
I didn’t notice much personally
I was tempted between this and the tiger 900, I went tiger and sounds like that was the way to go
I like the look of it Andy, it has a influences from Ducati, Yamaha & Triumph in the overall design. Its going to appeal to a wide range of riders. Re the seat height. Why havent bike manufacturers used a device like car seat lumbar so you can adjust the seat height. Thats too tall for me at 5'8" Great, thorough review as always.
Totally agree - there must be a non tech solution!
What are your thoughts on the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX?
Check my recent review for details! I love it!
How would you compare this to the Yamaha Tracer
I prefer the Yamaha - lighter and to my eyes better looking…
Looks like it needs that hugger from the GT fitted. Why the hell is it not on there, it's the same frame and swingarm??
I don’t k ow I’m afraid - sorry!
I love the look of this bike and think it would be perfect for me but as I am only just learning to ride do you think it's too powerful as a first big bike?
Yes I do (sorry!) - make it your second….
@@TheMissendenFlyer don't be sorry! Thank you for your honesty I will go back to looking at a second hand tiger 660 or a tracer 7, love the channel keep up the great content
Why are the doing that to the seats? The Versys 650 is the worst testicular distress I've experienced. The nuts are okay on the Versys 1000...
Dunno - strange isn’t it….
I liked the look of it when I saw it in a shop . The price in Australia is way too high for a Japanese tourer. I note the lack of heated grips, Even my way cheaper and more comfortable Kymco AK550 Premium scooter came with standard heated grips and cruise control.
Interesting review & bike. It seems Suzuki have tried to fuse old & new tech & it hasn't quite worked. Sounds like a few tweaks & a bit more refinement is needed.
Is the seat height adjustable? Maybe it’s set on the low height in the front and the high in back?
That may well be the case….
From the thumbnail I thought it was a BMW, this one looks great!!
Yes its definitely an improvement over the gt
I have been curious about your opinion on this one.
How odd the seat tips you into the tank. It looks flat or even slightly lower at the rear from the side - is it an issue with the padding, width or maybe adjustment? I must admit I’m not loving the look. To me the GT, pointy front end included, looks much nicer. This looks like a design mess with several different ideas mashed into one. Also no need at all to be off-road bike seat height. The elephant in the room is the Tracer 9 GT/+ - similar money with a lot more as standard. The power difference won’t mean anything to most buyers as the CP3 engine is a peach.
Yes - love that engine….
I'm sure those 'projector' headlights work much better than old school big lights but I don't think I'll ever get used to the look of them.
I’m with you on that!
As an American, I resemble that remark about the TFT design.
Sorry!!
It's OK, you were right on.
Id have preferd if they kept with the gt with updated looks to nail it. I just cant get into the adventure bike looks
My Hornet is a twin and the quick shifter works really well on that🤔 just read in MCN that Suzuki sells figures are really poor despite all the new models out like this and the GSX8R. I wonder why people don't seem to be buying their bikes in the UK?
Strange that (and a shame)….
Its because those two bikes you mentioned is basilly all they have been arsed to do...no gsxr's, GT looked promising and they butcherd it to this, and no proper middle weight range. Yamaha, kawasaki and Honda doing much better with their bike range.
I think it looks great, especially in blue but I suspected it wouldn't be as good as the Tracer 9. I think your review has pretty much confirmed that.
So weird about the seat comment, I'm 6 foot and I'm fairly comfortable on mine, never pushed into the front, rather the back bolster 😅
I guess we’re all different shapes!
I like the appearance and the seating position of the GT better. But I suffer from a general SUV-allergy, I'm afraid...😂
Somone from America needs to have a sit down discussion with Suzuki, to give them a proper lecture about properly using their 1340cc inline 4 cylinder Hayabusa engine with all it's immense torque, oil sprayed pistons, strengthened internals, and counterbalancer, in an ADV--sport touring bike with a tall adjustable windscreen, large dual headlights, and none of the "Sci-Fi" plastic pieces from a bad 1980's movie. OH, and an OVERDRIVE, a real overdrive, one that actually reduces the engine RPM's to near idle at 79mph.
I like the sound of that!
Something like a Suzuki made Super Tenere without the off-road capability. The GX seems like a modernized FZ1 and those were excellent bikes. Personally, I'd pass on the Busa engine. 150hp and 45mpg is plenty for me. I'd prefer 125hp and 55mpg but I can see why others wouldn't.
The GT was very comfy on the front for me, for a sports router though the pillion seat was very small and didn't look very comfy, the GX looks much better for that.
I hated the screen may be my height 6-3 and I thought a mode was snappy as hell and b mode was to tame other than that I’m pretty much in agreement with everything else you can get grips for around 400 and a centre stand for around 450-500 so it lumps in the already tasty price straight away the grips worked well but the controls were annoying though they had to start on the highest setting I believe then you hold it then they flash twice for middle then hold again and flash once for lowest not the end of the world but not as seamless as others
Yes I have similar sounding grips on my Kawasaki - not obvious how to use!
Flying weather
I think a remap, exhaust, and better tyres would really transform this bike.
It did with my friends GT!
128bhp on the dyno...over 150 doing what you wrote
@@williamrae9954 It's very restricted with Euro 5. Just watch any GT tune video...
I agree. I had an exhaust and tune done on my GT, 138hp at the wheel, so about 162 engine, and an increase of 6 ft lbs, better pads, still a little wooden but ultimately, I've never had an issue in over 22k miles.
so a completely different bike then?
@triv7252 From riding my friends GT, it was night n day different from standard and then having the exhaust a tune. Don't forget, every new bike is heavily restricted in power, torque, and throttle restrictions due to Euro 5.
Centre stand available?
Err -dunno
Apparently there was a break in at the local Suzuki dealer when a new owner put it back!! 😀
😜
Being tall I really thought this bike could tempt me away from my brilliant MT10. Unfortunately, just sitting on this bike, I didn’t like the feel and comfort of the seat.
It also has more tech and electronics than I need.
No chance of this becoming a part of the TMF garage then👍
M’fraid not….
Hmm bit of a mixed bag that one. Suzukis recent tongue twisting naming nomenclature is almost enough to put me off this already but the needlessly extravagant electronics package and cheesy TFT is a deal breaker for me - just all getting WAY to complicated nowadays. When you listed the electronics I started to lose interest and my life force started to leave me......
Edit: Huge electronics package and no heated grips? What were you thinking Suzuki?
Good point!
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT and Plus seat did it to me. It was a nut cracker. Main reason I didn't buy it. Seems to me if you are less than 100kg's, that happens, slide forward.
Its nice to have choices but at that price point wouldn't the S1000XR be a better prospect? Just my humble opinion.
Yes I think so too….
I think so too. I still love my modified MTS1200 though thank goodness 🥰
Are they really bought for touring or are they the motorised equivalent of “mountain bikes”, a response to deteriorating roads?
It looks like a sports tourer that wants to be an adventure bike but doesn’t quite get there. I guess it’s what Suzuki wanted. It looks like the vibes affect the TFT at higher revs as well (😂😂😂😂). BTW you forgot “the small print” in this video.
Whoops!
"Do you want a heavy, buzzy nad-crusher and freezing cold hands? Buy the GSX100GX. Only fourteen thousand pounds"😂
In fairness, by Multistrada 1200s's seat does the same thing, but I got used to it after a week and it's all-day comfortable. No buzzes however, HOT grips and I find it easy to move around. I paid less than half the price of the Suzuki (with 15k miles, FDSH) and got twice the bike. Buy used, people!
Engine refinement of Suzuki engines are phenomenal. The more you ride the more you get addicted..
It is indeed a nice looking bike but...I think the pricing is wrong. I don't say that it doesn't worth it or is not build to a high standard but i think they overpriced it by £3K give or take. Yes it does look better than the GT model but it is essentially the same bike. On this price range i would go for a Tracer 9 GT+ which has more technology and it looks more premium,i know is a slower bike but that's what i think. If Yamaha wake up one day and produce a CP4 engine tourer most likely would be £ 17K but that's another topic. Nice video Andy,if you are a living human and not AI reply with a smile hahaha
🙂
@@TheMissendenFlyer 🤣🤣🤣
It’s not slower on on the mcn test this topped out about 135mph and the tracer 140+
@DaleMt09sp Oh damn ! Thanks for the info. Well,3 Cyl 117hp vs 148 inline 4. In theory the Suzuki should be faster in terms of acceleration, similar.weight etc
@@zidisrider132mph they got to I think it’s limited I did have a go of the Suzuki and when it’s singing it isn’t slow needs winding up the range though
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and to be honest TMF in my eye it’s horrible. Still better than the hideous R1300GS though. Great video 👍
Fair enough!
Sports Tourers with regular wide bars are the future. Just not these overly tall ones. They dont really make any sense for 100% road use.
I think they do from a comfort point of view (normally!)
Nice looking bike but still like my tiger RP900 as an all rounder 👍
Sounds like a seat adjustment issue
It needs a little more refinement and another 30 HP, other than that great machine.
If it is called a Crosstourer...then I've already got one of those....made by Honda. They came up with that concept more than a decade ago.
Indeed they did!
I was thinking who did come up with the concept? Triumph 1050 Tiger? Or possibly TDM 850.
That green is the same colour as cigarette packets and was chosen because research showed it to be the most deterrant colour to a potential smoker , so why would you choose the same colour I’m assuming to make a motorcycle more attractive to potential buyers
How interesting!
Gt has zero vibes (owned it for 8 months) it does up high if your properly opening it up.. which i've never done
….so how do you know? 😉
@@TheMissendenFlyer just a hunch.. or a straight bit of road early in the morning 😅
From the '70s on, Japanese manufacturers made excellent shaft-drive bikes but for some reason - just as they're trying to get back into the touring market - they're only offering chains. They can all see how well BMW does in this area so why not just copy the formula? Not putting heated grips on a touring bike suggests they're not taking the brief seriously. As for the seat/tank arrangement, are you sure you don't have abnormally large balls? If the answer's no, then this could be another deal-breaker (and ball-breaker). I see the gnomes are out in force in the comments complaining about seat height. For the sake of balance I'd like to request taller seats to give tall people more comfort over longer distances.Cheers!
Agree absolutely. Could Suzuki please remake the GS850G on which I toured Europe 2-up 40 years ago? Smooth inline 4, shaft drive, comfy low, flat seat which put the pillion BEHIND, not ABOVE, and of course totally reliable.
@@josephlarmor550 Yep, that was one of the bikes I was thinking of. Japanese manufacturers used to have a very sure touch but they seem to have lost it.
@@trailingarm63 Funny thing is, my GS850 had just 78bhp but it never felt under-powered even touring 2-up with a Rickman fairing & panniers full of stuff, and a tent on the rear carrier! I’m always amused when motorcycling journalists criticise my Versys 1000 because it has “only” 120bhp. They miss the point that Kawasaki bravely put ease of use, comfort and torque for touring above outright power. Yet this fantastic bike is viewed as an also-ran.
The relentless pursuit of horsepower has resulted in a loss of focus on what people really want. Even BMW are guilty, I remember years ago thinking the R90RS had taken their pre-WW2 flat twin as far as it could go, but now we have the GS1300, and god help us the R18!
@@josephlarmor550 In the 1980s my CX500 only had about 50 bhp, but it felt plenty powerful having come up from a 250. Great for touring two-up across France, etc. But all traffic has got much faster over the decades and you have to accept change gracefully. I think anywhere from 100 to 150 bhp with good torque is now the right place to be. My RT1250 has 136 bhp and variable valve timing which has cured the boxer's tendency to run out of puff and power near the redline. It's great. There is a gap in the market for a "cheap RT" but it needs shaft-drive, heated grips, cruise control, weather protection and a large, comfy seat for rider and pillion. It doesn't need "modes", TFT screen, quick-shifter or electronic suspension.
@@trailingarm63 How interesting, my first touring trips to Europe were also on a CX500. A water-cooled shaft-drive V-twin, from a manufacturer previously known for air-cooled inline fours, it was perfect for touring. Funny how the motorcycling press turned against it, probably it was too popular and therefore not perceived to be sufficiently exotic.
I fitted Rickman panniers and fairing, and took it across Europe two-up, never had an issue. Subsequently fitted the same kit to my GS850. Happy memories!
the GT looked better. The side profile of the GX is similar to the BMW GS which might be why you PREFER IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! :P
I personally just don't get Suzuki's marketing strategy (If they have one)as they seem to replace models in this category every year, it's as if they can't make their mind up and have no medium to long term plan for this segment which must be frustrating (and costly) for owners who've bought the previous latest incarnation. Compare that with say Kawasaki who have been producing the Z1000SX for over 10 years now? New owners know what they're getting and those who have one know their existing SX hasn't become obsolete overnight so is still worth something on trade in.
I agree, always been a Suzuki fan, but at the moment they seem all over the place with what bikes they are selling and no gsxr range is just so wrong..