In Europe, Suzuki has unveiled new colors for its flagship touring model, the GSX-S1000GT. Not to be confused with the GSX-R1000, the GSX-S1000GT is designed for touring, while retaining the sporty nature of the GSX name. It has a sporty and aggressive style, with a full fairing, but offers more ergonomic handling due to a higher handlebar and more relaxed footrests.

In France in particular, the model has been launched in four new colors for 2024 – Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Reflective Blue, Candy Daring Red and Glass Sparkle Black. The four new colors give the sport-tourer a more exclusive look, setting it apart from its competitors in terms of style. To make the deal even better, Suzuki is offering the bike with a luggage kit for an additional price of just one euro, which is basically free, until October 31, 2023.

Apart from these “bright new colors”, the 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT remains the same as ever. The sport-tourer is powered by a robust 999 cc in-line four-cylinder engine, a direct descendant of the GSX-R1000 sports bike. With an impressive 152.1 hp of power and a healthy 152.1 Nm of torque, it offers similar performance to other sport-tourers in its class. Despite its power, it maintains a weight of 226 kg. The rider enjoys a comfortable seat height of 810 mm, making it accessible to a wide variety of users.

O conteúdo Suzuki launches the 2024 GSX-S1000GT with new colors in Europe aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Suzuki has signed a binding contract with Malaysian company KMSB to create the Afaz brand. The Japanese will supply the necessary parts for production in Malaysia to meet emerging local demand.

Malaysia is in luck, Suzuki and Kuala Lumpur-based KMSB Motors have signed a partnership agreement to launch a new brand called Afaz.

The signing ceremony took place at the Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office. In attendance were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, KMSB chairman Faez Yahaya and Suzuki chairman Toshihiro Suzuki.

KMSB is an AFY Mobility Industries Sdn. Bhd. In fact, Malaysians are the sole shareholders of Suzuki Malaysia. They also produce and sell Suzuki motorcycles in the Southeast Asian country.

The agreement will see Suzuki supply engine and fairing parts for the 110cc to 150cc Afaz models from the first half of 2024. The parts supplied will come from Suzuki’s factories in Asia.

At the ceremony, Suzuki’s President said: “In addition to motorcycle sales, Suzuki would like to contribute to the expansion and prosperity of the Malaysian motorcycle market and industry by supplying spare parts to KMSB.

Afaz is expected to contribute greatly to the local industry and, at the same time, provide numerous job opportunities in a country in need. The motorcycle market in Malaysia continues to grow, especially in the industrial sector. By way of reference, in 2022, the country had a market of 718,000 motorcycles.

The launch of Afaz coincides with Malaysia’s announcement of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), in which the Prime Minister outlined the main objectives for the country’s industrial sector until 2030.

More specifically, NIMP 2030 aims to secure Malaysia’s position as a world leader in industrial development, making it a key player in a number of sectors.

At the grand launch of the new motorcycle brand, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Chairman of the Board of KMSB and the Chairman of the Board of Suzuki were accompanied by important figures such as Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman, Executive Director of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

At this stage, it is not known what kind of motorcycles Afaz will produce. However, it is almost certain that they will target the best-selling mass market segment in Malaysia, i.e. scooters and entry-level motorcycles.

But we also expect them to introduce some mid-range motorcycles. On the other hand, we know that the company is going to launch its own R&D, marketing and innovation initiative. An initiative tailored specifically to the needs of the Malaysian market.

O conteúdo Suzuki launches new motorcycle brand Afaz – scooters and entry-level bikes aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

We are well aware of the commercial logic that manufacturers apply to new models and platforms that allow the same mechanical base to be used in several versions.

Suzuki is not shying away from this type of strategy, and the news that is currently circulating only confirms this. We’ll soon see a new 1000, with characteristics close to classic crossovers, just to be clear we’re thinking of the Yamaha Tracer 9GT and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 as the main competitors.

The publication of the homologation documents reveals that it has been tested to meet the UN-ECE 168/2013 standards required throughout the EU and in several other countries, including the UK.

The mechanical basis will most likely be the same as that of the GSX-S 1000 GT seen in the photographs, so it will have the same four-cylinder engine, producing 150 hp at 11,000 rpm.

The chassis part will also be shared with the GSX-S1000 and GSX-S1000GT, with a suspension that will most likely be higher and have more travel, and possibly a different gear ratio, with the wheelbase apparently increasing by 10 mm to 1,470 mm.

It’s also clear that the dimensions will be slightly larger, both in terms of length, the GSX-S1000X comes in at 2150 mm, 35 mm longer than the GSX-S1000 and 10 mm longer than the GT, and in width, at 925 mm, the X is 100 mm wider than the GT and 115 mm wider than the standard GSX-S1000 (it’s possible that there will be a completely new handlebar, perhaps equipped with hand guards).

As for height, this reaches 1,290 mm with the windscreen fully down, or 1,350 mm in the highest position, so it’s much taller than the GT, which reaches 1,280 mm.

The recorded running weight is 232 kg, 6 kg heavier than the 226 kg GSX-S1000GT and 18 kg heavier than the 214 kg GSX-S1000.

The homologated top speed also changes, 240 km/h for the GSX-S 1000 and GT, 215 km/h for the new GSX-1000X.

We hope that the official presentation will be soon… very soon.

O conteúdo Suzuki GSX-S1000 gets third version – X will also arrive in 2024 aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The platform, a first for Suzuki, consisting of the 776 cc twin-cylinder engine and the steel frame could soon receive a new evolution. Born with the V-Strom 800 DE (the maxienduro with a 21-inch front wheel) and the GSX-8S, this platform will certainly not be limited to just two models. We’ve already mentioned the likely arrival of a fairing for the GSX-8R, while we’ve made some assumptions about the V-Strom 800 with a 19-inch front wheel, based on the emissions documents filed with the California Air Resources Board and the Swiss vehicle homologation documents discovered by our colleagues at Motorcycle.com, who published the very low-resolution photographs of the bike taken at the Australian homologation authorities.

As mentioned, the V-Strom 800 loses the DE suffix to receive a 19-inch front wheel with a 110/80-19 tire and other details point to a taller fairing and a weight loss of a good 7 kg (probably due to the absence of the sump guard and handlebar protectors), as well as a change in external dimensions that suggest the same approach and philosophy expected for the two 1050 models. Notice in the photo the suspension with less travel than on the DE, the alloy wheels and a different, more protective fairing.

Will we see it at EICMA 2023? From our point of view, it’s very likely. More uncertain is the fate of the twin-cylinder engine and, consequently, of the V-Strom 650, the Hamamatsu production’s adventure touring bike: an excellent and best-selling motorcycle, but one that could capitulate at the moment, both because of the presence of the V-Strom 800, which overlaps to some extent, and because there may no longer be any reason to upgrade the glorious 650 cc V-engine for the Euro5+ future. We’ll see.

O conteúdo Suzuki – V-Strom 800 with 19″ front wheel caught in homologation documents aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

After the award given to the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE at the Alpen Masters 2023, which was named the best motorcycle in a mega comparison that encompassed the various segments and was subjected to a battery of highly demanding tests, it is now the turn of its sister, the Suzuki GSX-8S, to have its overall quality and performance recognized, having won the Naked Motorcycle of the Year award at the prestigious MCN Awards 2023.

These two awards give even more visibility to the excellence of Suzuki’s new platform, both in terms of its dynamic behavior and performance, as well as its overall quality, which places it very clearly as a benchmark in each of the segments.

In the particular case of the Suzuki GSX-8S, the award highlighted the fact that it is a motorcycle that meets all the requirements, being easy to use for beginners, suitable for everyday use, with excellent value for money and offering performance that also satisfies more experienced users.

Nicknamed by MCN as “the new queen of medium displacement”, the GSX-8S is known for its new parallel twin-cylinder engine and advanced electronic features. A Naked Street Fighter that has been winning over motorcycle enthusiasts all over the world and promises to continue to impress on the roads, elevating riding pleasure and fun without limits.

According to those responsible for the MCN Awards, “the GSX-8S is a motorcycle that doesn’t impress on paper, but motorcycles aren’t ridden on paper!”, a clear revisiting of the classic “The whole is much better than the sum of the parts, much better!”

The model, presented at the 2022 edition of EICMA, was launched in Europe in May 2023 and has been delighting all those who have chosen it as their motorcycle after seeing the features that now make it stand out.

Both models can still be tested at the brand’s network of official dealers throughout the country.

O conteúdo Suzuki GSX-8S – Naked Bike of the Year at the MCN Awards 2023 aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Presented at Intermot Cologne in October 2022, along with the Address 125 and Avenis 125, the Burgman Street 125EX now arrives on the market strengthening the brand’s range of 125cc scooters.

In addition, the model has other arguments to make it a relevant proposition in such a competitive segment, one of which is fuel consumption below 2.0 L / 100 km.

Incorporating the new SEP-α (Suzuki Eco Performance Alpha) technology powertrain, the Burgman Street 125EX is designed to appeal to those looking for comfort, convenience, maneuverability and a good level of performance.

Compared to the SEP system that equips other models of the brand, the new SEP-α stands out for integrating the EASS (Engine Auto Stop-Start) Start & Stop system, which contributes to reducing fuel consumption by restarting the engine silently and smoothly as soon as you accelerate.

The model also features full LED lighting, a digital instrument panel, a 2A USB socket and generous space for the driver and passenger, as well as a central and side rest.

With the city and urban commuting as its habitat of choice, the Burgman Street 125EX also comes with a topcase holder as standard, in addition to ample storage space under the seat (21.5 L) and two front storage compartments.

Designed to stand out in everyday traffic, even with two people, its maximum torque of 10 Nm is delivered as early as 5,500 rpm, ensuring a prompt and adequate response. Its flat platform is ideal for city traffic, giving quick and easy access to the ground and ensuring comfort thanks to the plenty of legroom available.

The Burgman Street 125EX combines its CBS braking system with DUNLOP D307 N tires and a wheelbase of 1290 mm to ensure safety and stability.

Main features:

O conteúdo Suzuki – new Burgman Street 125EX aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The Suzuki Hayabusa is one of the most iconic motorbikes in the two-wheeler industry. Launched in 1999, it was the fastest motorbike in the world for many years, and remains one of the most respected and desired models by motorbike enthusiasts around the world.

In 1999, the Hayabusa was launched, aiming to become the fastest motorbike in the world. Its name in Japanese means “Peregrine Falcon”, one of the world’s fastest birds of prey. With a 1,299 cc engine, the Hayabusa was capable of reaching speeds of over 300 km/h.

In 2008, Suzuki released an update of the Hayabusa, with a new, more efficient engine and improved aerodynamics. The bike continued to be a sales success around the world, especially in countries where motorways allow higher speeds. 

In 2013, Suzuki faced the problems of exhaust emissions regulations, which led to a pause in the production of the Japanese model. The company worked on a more efficient engine in compliance with emissions regulations, and the bike was produced again in 2015.

Finally, in 2021 the new Suzuki Hayabusa was launched and it did not go unnoticed. Its 1,340cc four-cylinder engine, has 190 hp and 150 Nm of torque. The new design of the bike has been updated, with a more aggressive line, but without losing its iconic features, such as the aerodynamic shape reminiscent of a hawk. The new Hayabusa also features a number of high-end technologies to make riding more comfortable and safer, for example, traction control system that automatically adjusts engine power in different conditions. 

The instrument panel has also been updated, with a digital display that includes information on speed, gear engaged, fuel consumption and other essential driver information. The seat has been updated in order to improve comfort on longer journeys.

The history of the Suzuki Hayabusa is marked by innovation and the pursuit of speed limits. Despite the challenges faced by the Japanese brand, the bike continues to be a sales success worldwide and a reference in the world of motorbikes.

O conteúdo Suzuki Hayabusa – definition of speed aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Suzuki recently applied to register a new acronym to name one of its models for next year.

The new Suzuki GSX-8R will be ready for 2024, or at least that’s the Japanese brand’s intention after registering the acronym with the Swiss homologation office. In any case, it’s something we’ve been expecting for a long time, given that today most of the leading brands have developed a sports model derived directly from their naked chassis.

Yamaha has the YZF-R7 in its ranks, while Aprilia is doing the same with the RS660. There are also rumors of a sports version of the current Hornet 750, and in the Far East there is no end to the development of such models to compete with the leading bikes in the category.

As we heard from Bennetts’ group, Suzuki has reportedly submitted UN-ECE homologation documents for the model to be homologated in continental Europe and the UK. These documents refer to a new commercial designation, GSX800 (8R), as well as a second designation for a limited variant of the current A2, GSX800U (8R).

In these documents to which we have had access, it is confirmed that both versions would be equipped with the power unit currently used by the GSX-8S. The 776 cc, water-cooled engine with 6 speeds and 6 ratios is the engine used in the GSX-8S. Final dimensions are 84.0 mm x 70.0 mm, while the compression ratio is 12.8:1. In total, it can deliver 83 hp at 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 78 Nm at 6,800 rpm.

However, and confirming the theory of a completely new bike, the future GSX-8R approves some of its figures with different data from the naked version. For example, the top speed is 215 km/h, compared to 210 km/h for the GSX-8S. The same goes for the A2 variant; while the sports model has a top speed of 174 km/h, its naked sister has a top speed of 170 km/h.

This variation is mainly due to the inclusion of a fairing, with the GSX-8S’s overall wheelbase and wheelbase dimensions remaining unchanged. What does change is the width, now 770 mm, and the height, 30 mm higher than the naked version. Likewise, the final weight rises to 205 kg, three kg more than the GSX-8S.

Otherwise, no major changes are expected to the future Suzuki GSX-8R. Brakes, suspension or main chassis elements would be shared with the roadster variant. It remains to be seen whether the lighting equipment that currently characterizes Suzuki’s naked bikes will be retained, with twin headlights. It is also not known whether it will come with a full fairing or just a front fairing.

All these doubts will be clarified in the coming weeks and it is very likely that, as we get closer to the next EICMA 2023, we will have access to new information on this subject.

O conteúdo Confirmed – Suzuki GSX-8R confirmed for 2024 aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

To say that the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE was a surprise is perhaps an understatement. The general expectation at the EICMA show about what Suzuki might unveil was low and renewals of some existing models and general improvements were expected. But contrary to the general feeling in the hall, Suzuki actually managed to surprise with two new models, built almost entirely from scratch. The V-Strom 800 DE was one of them.

At the heart of the new V-Strom 800 DE is Suzuki’s new parallel twin-cylinder engine. The 776 cc DOHC engine produces 84.2 hp at 8,500 rpm, with 78 Nm of maximum torque at 6,800 rpm. Designed to be a consistent bike, according to the brand, the four-valve per cylinder engine produces smooth but strong torque at low revs. High levels of torque and traction – extra beneficial off-road – and a pleasant noise through its exhaust system, ensure that it retains a character more akin to Suzuki’s famous V-twin. Its construction reduces unwanted vibrations and helps achieve a more compact and lightweight overall package, which improves, according to the brand, the V-Strom 800DE’s agile handling. These are all strong compliments and characteristics that Suzuki claims to have succeeded in instilling in this engine. It’s important to note that this EURO5 twin-cylinder is a completely new block, built from scratch for this V-Strom 800DE and the GSX-8S, and may even serve as the basis for a number of other models.

CYCLING

With a fully adjustable inverted fork with 220 mm of travel, a 21-inch front wheel, 220 mm of ground clearance, and an electronic kit with additional features around performance and off-road, the V-Strom 800DE promises to stand up to the biggest names in the ADV range. Even so, Suzuki has opted to stray a little from the norm and equip this bike with a 17-inch wheel at the rear, rather than the traditional 18-inch rim we see on most adventure bikes. This bike has a 20-liter fuel tank and a curb weight of 230 kg. Not exactly an encouraging weight on paper, we’ll have to wait to test the V-Strom 800DE and see how it distributes itself and influences the way we ride this bike on the road, and essentially on more complicated paths.

TECHNOLOGY

There’s no denying that Suzuki has let itself be outdone in recent years in the technology department and in the equipment it offers its customers, when compared to brands that are at the forefront of technology. But the EICMA 2022 show seems to have been the turning point. This new V-Strom 800 DE comes equipped with lots of good technology as standard. A new 5″ TFT color dashboard is the command center of this bike, which also features a low-speed assistance system, traction control – including a fully switchable mode, essential for off-road riding – bidirectional quickshifter, switchable ABS on the rear wheel and the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) system, which allows you to select different riding modes for the most diverse situations. All of this allows the new V-Strom to be fully in line with the current standards of technology expected of a motorcycle in this segment, and even to come equipped as standard with some features that are superior to those of the competition.

O conteúdo Review – Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE – a nice surprise aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Few riders have left racing with such great prestige and such widespread, across-the-board, almost universal public affection for Kevin Schwantz. The legendary Suzuki rider, for whom he raced his entire career in the 500cc class, only won one title during his time in the world championship (1993), but his entertaining riding style, his daring – never beyond the limits of correctness – on the track, his creativity in overtaking attempts and his ability to tame the two-stroke RGV500 when there was still no traction control and all the electronics we see on MotoGP bikes today.

Kevin is and remains a motorcycling icon and Suzuki had already dedicated a limited edition bike to him, the GSX-R1000 Legend Edition, when in 2021 it intended to celebrate the Japanese manufacturer’s seven world titles with seven special versions of its sports bike, each with a livery dedicated to each title/rider (two different graphics were released for Barry Sheene’s two titles). But the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Texan’s 500cc title and his participation in Autolook Week in Turin was the perfect opportunity to present another Schwantz-dedicated version of a Suzuki motorcycle, the GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition.

Let’s start by saying that, technically, the limited edition version of the Suzuki streetfighter is no different from the GSX-8S, the differences are all in the equipment and the color, inspired by that of the Suzuki RGV500 ridden by the Houston champion in the season that culminated in the world title. Hence the “tobacco” paintwork with a white base combined with red and green, very recognizable and – for those who lived through that era or for those who are fascinated by it today – capable of thrilling, with the number 34 appearing proudly on the sides.

Only five GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Editions will be available, and each unit is numbered and autographed by the Texan rider, as well as accompanied by a certificate of exclusivity: to get them, you don’t have to go to the dealership, but wait until 9:34 a.m. on September 4, when the bike can be reserved on the e-commerce platform at www.suzuki.it.

The price of the GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition is €11,490 including VAT (the standard model costs €8,900), but when you reserve it on the website you’ll need to pay a deposit of €500, you’ll then receive a confirmation email and, within two working days, you’ll be contacted by the seller to make an appointment at the dealership to finalize the purchase and agree on the delivery time or method.

O conteúdo Suzuki GSX-8S Kevin Schwantz Edition – the legend of No. 34 in a limited edition aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.