2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX Review: Sport Touring Perfected or Identity Crisis?

The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX marks a bold new step for the Japanese manufacturer. Built to straddle the line between high-performance sportbike and long-distance touring machine, it arrives with a mission: to redefine what a sport-touring crossover can be. With its powerful engine, semi-active suspension, upright ergonomics, and a full suite of electronics, it aims to offer the best of both worlds.

But does it succeed? Or has Suzuki attempted to do too much with one machine? In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the GSX-S1000GX—performance, comfort, technology, ride feel, and more—to determine whether this is a game-changer or a confusing experiment. We’ll also recommend premium upgrades from the 2WheelsHero GSX-S1000GX 2024 collection to enhance your ride.

Overview of the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX

The GSX-S1000GX is Suzuki’s first “GX” model—a new category designed to blend high-performance DNA with upright comfort and advanced rider assistance systems. It builds on the GSX-S1000GT platform but takes things further with:

• A fully adjustable semi-active Showa suspension system
  

• Six-axis IMU for real-time dynamic control
  

• Bosch Cornering ABS and multi-level traction control
  

• A full-color TFT dash with smartphone connectivity
  

• Touring-ready ergonomics and luggage options
  

With its angular fairing, tall stance, and aggressive lines, the GX visually communicates performance. But look closer, and you’ll find thoughtful touches for long-range comfort, like plush seating, upright bars, and generous wind protection.

Engine and Performance

At its core, the GX is powered by a 999cc inline-four derived from the K5 GSX-R1000. This engine has earned a legendary status for its combination of durability, midrange power, and top-end rush. In the GX, it's tuned for road-focused usability rather than racetrack madness.

It produces approximately 152 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 9,250 rpm, providing an exhilarating punch across the rev range. There’s usable power everywhere, whether you’re overtaking on the highway or powering out of a hairpin turn.

Throttle response can be customized via three selectable modes:

• Mode A: Immediate and aggressive response for spirited riding.
  

• Mode B: Balanced and linear, ideal for daily use.
  

• Mode C: Smooth and gentle, perfect for rain or rough conditions.
  

The ride-by-wire throttle system is refined, and the bi-directional quickshifter works flawlessly—offering seamless, clutchless shifts up and down the gearbox.

Suspension and Ride Quality

One of the standout features of the GSX-S1000GX is its Showa EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) suspension. Unlike traditional setups, this system continuously adjusts damping based on real-time inputs from the Bosch IMU and other sensors.

The rider can select from:

• Soft: More compliant for rough roads or comfort-focused touring.
  

• Medium: Balanced for all-around riding.
  

• Hard: Firm for aggressive sport riding or smooth tarmac.
  

There’s also automatic preload adjustment based on load, meaning the bike adapts whether you're solo, with a passenger, or fully loaded with luggage. Suspension travel is generous (150 mm front and rear), making the GX capable of soaking up bumps while still delivering precise handling.

At speed, the GX feels stable, planted, and surprisingly nimble for a bike in this category. In tight corners, the weight is well managed, and the upright position gives excellent control and leverage.

Electronics and Technology

The GSX-S1000GX is among the most advanced motorcycles Suzuki has ever produced. It includes:

• Cornering ABS

• Traction control with multiple levels
  

• Wheelie control
  

• Cruise control
  

• Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS)
  

• 6.5-inch TFT display with smartphone mirroring via the mySPIN app
  

The display is bright, responsive, and provides turn-by-turn navigation, music control, call management, and more. You can stay connected without having to dig into your phone—ideal for touring.

Overall, the electronics work seamlessly and don’t interfere unless needed. They add safety and convenience without creating complexity.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The GSX-S1000GX is surprisingly comfortable. The riding position is upright with a relaxed knee angle, and the seat is generously padded for both rider and passenger. At 845 mm, the seat height is manageable for average-height riders, and the bike narrows near the tank, making it easier to reach the ground.

Wind protection is excellent thanks to the wide fairing and adjustable windscreen, though taller riders may still want a touring screen. Heated grips come standard in many markets, and cruise control works beautifully for highway slogs.

However, for those planning serious long-distance rides, upgrading to accessories like a gel seat or ergonomic grips from the accessories section can make a big difference.

Brakes and Control

Braking is handled by dual 310 mm Brembo front discs with radial-mounted calipers, and a single disc at the rear. The feel is strong and predictable, though some may find the initial bite slightly soft—easily remedied with upgraded pads or braided lines from th brakes collection.

Cornering ABS works quietly in the background, and the bike stays composed under hard braking. Combined with the IMU and advanced suspension, the GX feels stable and trustworthy in emergency stops and during downhill cornering.

Practicality and Touring Features

The GX+ version includes hard panniers as standard, and the subframe is designed to support touring luggage. There's also ample space for two-up riding, and the pillion seat is far from an afterthought.

For long-haul riders, there’s a range of add-ons to consider:

• Chain protectors to reduce grime and wear: chain protectors collection
  

• Clutch upgrades for smoother engagement in stop-go traffic: clutch parts
  

• Custom caps to personalize the look: cap collection

Whether commuting, touring across Europe, or carving weekend backroads, the GX is more than capable.

Specifications Table

Final Word

The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is one of the most versatile, well-balanced motorcycles in the sport-touring category. It combines high-performance DNA with real-world comfort, tech, and safety features—without the overwhelming complexity of some European rivals.

Is it perfect? Not quite. Some may want a bit more initial brake bite or better wind protection. But for the price point, it’s an exceptional machine—especially when enhanced with premium parts from 2WheelsHero’s GSX-S1000GX 2024 collection.

If you’re a rider who wants one bike to commute, tour, and carve corners, the GX doesn’t feel like a compromise—it feels like a solution. A smart, capable, and stylish one.