“This will be interesting,” I thought to myself as I walked up to the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX at the Suzuki SA head office. It had been a few years since I last rode a 1000cc, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But after riding around in Johannesburg for two days, later taking it for a spin around Red Star Raceway, before heading back down to Durban along the freeway and scenic routes — I can confidently say this: “The 1000GX is one hell of a bike!”.
Where Touring Comfort meets SuperSport DNA
It all starts with the engine. The GSX-S1000GX carries a powerful 999cc inline-four derived from Suzuki’s GSX-R lineage. It’s responsive, refined, and pushes like a rocket at the twist of the throttle.
But don’t let the sporty heritage fool you — this isn’t just a race-bred rocket with boxes. The 1000GX is smooth, balanced, and incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for both daily commutes and long-distance escapes.
One of my absolute favourites is the Bi-directional Quick Shifter, which lets you shift up or down without using the clutch lever. This reduces fatigue while delivering confident shifts that will make you feel more in control of the power of the GX.
“It’s the kind of bike that makes you want to take the long way home — every time.”
Electronic Intelligence working with You
One of the standout features for me is the Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES). Riding around Joburg’s mix of congested city freeway traffic and residential roads, I felt how the suspension adapted on the fly — soaking up bumps, then firming up for spirited cornering. It offers four electronically controlled damping modes: “H” (Hard), “M” (Medium), “S” (Soft) and the customizable “U” (User) setting.
On the track at Red Star Raceway, it performed with confidence, even under aggressive braking and throttle.
Pair that with cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, and ride modes (SDMS-α), and you have a package that’s not just about power — it’s about control, confidence, and customisation.
Slope-dependent Control prevents rear wheel lift when braking while riding downhill. A winner in my book!
The GX follows Suzuki’s flagship Hayabusa model in adopting the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector Alpha (SDMS-α), which features advanced electronic control systems: Power Mode, Smart TLR (Traction, Lift and Roll Torque) Control, and Active Damping Control. Each mode was tried and tested during my time in Johannesburg and down to Durban:
C (Comfort) mode prioritises comfort and controllability, particularly when riding long distances or carrying a passenger and gear.
A (Active) mode is designed for the more aggressive riding style of a sporty run on good roads.
B (Basic) mode is set up to deliver a satisfying balance of settings that are good for a broad range of riding situations.
Comfort, even for the Tall Riders
As someone who stands 6 feet tall, I often find bikes in this class a bit cramped. Not the GX! The more engaged riding position, wider handlebars, and sports-like footpeg placement create a natural riding posture that kept me comfortable for hours. The manually-adjustable windscreen helped reduce fatigue, and the comfy seat — even after an empty-tank stretch in the saddle — was still supportive.
“For a big guy like me, now just over 50, this bike fits like a glove. It’s agile, planted, and surprisingly easy to handle.”
Style Meets Function
From every angle, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX looks the part. Sharp, aggressive lines. Full-colour TFT display. LED lighting. Luggage-ready frame. It’s built to travel with ease, sporty, and in style — but without sacrificing rider engagement. Smartphone connectivity in conjunction with the free SUZUKI mySPIN app for Android and iOS provides easy access to contacts, maps, music, phone, and calendar functions.
Backed by First-Class Service in SA
Owning a premium machine like this is only as good as the support behind it — and Suzuki South Africa absolutely delivers. With a nationwide network of knowledgeable dealers, readily available parts, and excellent customer care, you’re never far from the help or advice you need. From my own experience, every interaction with Suzuki SA has been smooth, supportive, and refreshingly personal.
“You don’t just buy a Suzuki — you become part of the family!”
The 1000GX is Calling
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX isn’t just another sports tourer. It’s a machine that blurs the line between exhilarating performance and plush comfort — engineered for riders who want it all.
Whether you’re navigating open freeways, urban roads, leaning into a few twisties, or heading out on a cross-country trip, this bike delivers every time. And if you’re lucky enough to ride one, you’ll know: this is how sports touring should feel!
Visit the Suzuki Motorcycles SA website for more information on the GSX-S1000GX and experience the thrill of an amazing Sports Tourer!
