2015 Suzuki GSX-S750 & 2016 GSX-S1000 | FIRST LOOK

A New Naked from Hamamatsu, Plus One from Europe

As anticipated, Suzuki has debuted an all-new, GSX-R1000-based naked bike. What we did not expect was the release of a faired sibling, the GSX-S1000F, largely the same under the skin, but with full bodywork (considering how much we like Kawasaki’s faired Ninja 1000, a ride on the GSX-SF is on our short list). MSRP has yet to¬¬ be announced, but we know that both bikes will arrive in 2015 as 2016 models.

We did learn that the new GSX-S1000 is powered by the 2005-’08-generation GSX-R1000 engine, which is good news for the many fans of the “K5” Gixxer 1000. The powerplant is retuned for more low- and mid-range power, like all the other heavy hitters in the open-class naked category, but we think it’s still fair to expect around 140 horsepower at the rear wheel.

The GSX-S1000 will also have three-mode and switchable traction control, Brembo brakes, a fully adjustable KYB upside-down fork, and available Bosch ABS. While the engine is sourced from the GSX-R line, the frame is new for this bike. A seat height of 32 inches means it should be pretty approachable, and although Suzuki has not yet released a claimed curb weight we’re told the GSX-S1000 weighs less than the current GSX-R literbike, which tips the scales just under 450 pounds.

Along with the all-new 1000, Suzuki’s European 750cc naked bike will cross the pond in 2015, coming to America badged as the GSX-S750. Powered by the previous-generation GSX-R750 engine, the GSX-S750 also rides in a unique chassis with a brawny, but futuristic, street-fighter look. The 750 is similar in size to it’s GSX-S1000 big brother, although a claimed mass of 463 pounds suggests fewer weight-saving measures taken during production. Seat height is also comparable, although a shade higher at 32.1 inches.

Arguably the best news regarding the 750 is the price; $7,999 will put the Metallic Matte Black base model in your driveway, only $9 more than Yamaha's blockbuster FZ-09 triple ( see 2014 Yamaha FZ-09| FIRST RIDE ). An up-spec GSX-S750Z will also be available, with a brighter blue/white paint scheme and a few other do-dads (gold fork tubes, red shock spring, and a blue chain, among others), for $8,149.