Tourer-oriented Suzuki GSX-S1000T set for debut amid range reshuffle
The Suzuki GSX-S1000F looks set to be rebranded the Suzuki GSX-S1000T in the latest reshuffle of the Japanese firm's 1000cc range
It’s all go at Suzuki right now as the Japanese manufacturer sets about re-shuffling the upper portion of its motorcycle range to offer greater definition for buyers.
Kick-started earlier this year by the high-profile arrival of the Hayabusa - the first major update for the iconic sportsbike-cum-tourer since the original held the presses back in 1999 - it has since been followed by the facelifted GSX-S1000, plus the surprise unveiling of an A2-friendly GSX-S950 only this week.
Moreover, with murmurings of an imminent brand-new GSX-R1000 doing the rounds, it seems Suzuki is also keeping itself busy by re-organising its big bike range to offer a more dedicated touring-focused model using its venerable - and now Euro5 compliant - 1000cc four-pot engine.
Type-approval documents have surfaced revealing a fresh GSX-S1000T trim and it doesn’t take a genius to figure out exactly what we can expect when the model does break cover.
It is understood the GSX-S1000T will be steered towards offering a more dedicated ‘touring’ option in the Suzuki range. As it stands, Suzuki’s sub-Hayabusa GT offering is the GSX-S1000F, but it appears the ‘T’ will replace the ‘F’ to help identify it as a direct rival for the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
In fact, it is likely Suzuki has adopted a similar approach to that of its Japanese rivals which rebranded the erstwhile Z1000 to better define its place in the touring class and put some space between both the naked Z900 and GT-cum-adventure Versys 1000.
As for what to expect from the GSX-S1000T, the fresh face that debuted on the sister GSX-S1000 - and followed up by the interesting Team Classic Suzuki Katana Lockdown Project special edition - is likely to be adopted. This could in turn give a few hints as to what its faired sibling, the more powerful GSX-R1000, could look like when it drops later this year.
Under the skin, the 150PS four-cylinder engine’s statistics will likely mirror that of the GSX-S1000 with power delivery at 11,000rpm and around 80Ib.ft of torque peaking at 9,250rpm.
If the GSX-S1000T is a more focused option for the touring segment then Suzuki could take the opportunity to tweak the specification to offer greater long-range practicality than the GSX-S1000F, but regardless expect it to provide more comfortable upright riding position and versatility than the new GSX-S1000.
Either way, its likely the Japanese firm won’t tinker too much with a formula that steers it away from its big attraction of offering hard-wearing mechanicals and a keen ride at good value prices.
