The GSX-S1000F is one ferocious motorcycle, thanks to the Suzuki’s K5 engine that was seen on the 2005 GSX-R1000. This 999cc inline-four motor is all about insane power and one can feel it as soon as you twist the throttle. But before that, you need to work around the over-sensitive throttle response at low revs, which is made worse by the engine’s gobs of low- and mid-range torque. This is bothersome initially, but the best way to overcome it is by staying in a higher gear when you have the option. Riding this motorcycle in 45kmph in sixth gear is easy.
It is quite controversial to say that the GSX-S1000F belongs to the empty road, but taming this machine on an empty stretch will give you enough adrenaline to keep you wide awake the entire day. It takes just a blink of an eye to reach triple digit speeds. Till 5000rpm, the GSX-S1000F is still sane enough to let you enjoy the surroundings; cross 8000rpm and your vision will start to blur. This motorcycle redlines at 11,500rpm and at that speed, the sound from this Suzuki is to die for. The six-speed gearbox is smooth and very accurate. The non-adjustable clutch is a little too heavy for long commuting duties.
The GSX-S1000F is extremely stable at high speed- credit the new fairing that slices through the wind really well. In fact, the Japanese company redesigned the rear view mirrors to match the fairing’s aerodynamic ability. The non-adjustable windscreen helps too, and there is hardly any wind buffeting. The fairing has added another 7kg to the bike’s overall weight, and the front-end feel has also improved thanks to it. This means more confidence, and the ability to go faster. The GSX-S1000F is not lightning quick to change direction like supersport bikes are, but manages it really well. The Bridgestone Battlax tyres have tremendous grip and that adds a lot of confidence as well. In the city too, this bike isn’t hard to ride, but like we mentioned before, the over sensitive throttle response in the lower revs is unsettling.
The GSX-S1000F’s ride is stiff, but it’s not a back breaker. Even on bad roads and through potholes, this Japanese doesn’t unsettle the rider. Riding it for long hours is easy – credit the comfortable seat and the great ergonomics. Suzuki is known to spend a lot effort into getting the ergonomics right and the results are clear on the GSX-S1000F. The handlebar is easy to reach without needing a crouch. The footpegs are slightly rear-set but not uncomfortably so. The brakes are top-drawer components and the feel and feedback is good. Our test bike lacked a little initial bite, but we’ll offer it the benefit of the doubt: vehicles from media fleets are rarely used with care.