2016 SUZUKI GSX-S1000
LONG-TERM
UPDATE
A REAL SPORT ON THE DAILY GRIND
Don Canet
Arguably the GSX-S1000’s greatest appeal is its degree of everyday comfort and convenience while still possessing trackday-worthy performance. We headed to Chuckwalla Valley Raceway with a fresh set of Metzeler Racetec RR K3 tires—120/70-17 ($248.95) and 190/55-17 ($392.21)mounted and suspension spring preload and damping dialed to suit. Cornering grip and clearance proved superb with a surprising amount of throttle aggression required to engage the bike’s TC—even when set to its middle sensitivity level.
After we piled on 4,400 street miles, the profile of the K3 dual-compound rear has become squared. A set of Pirelli Diablo Rosso II in like sizes ($152.95 and $233.95) has restored steering and stability along with offering improved
cold-tire rider confidence.
The 7,500-mile service has tacked $455 to the bike’s maintenance tally, as scheduled spark-plug replacement was due along with a routine oil change and a variety of inspections.
Swapping the stock bar-end weights for a Kaoko Throttle Stabilizer ($149.95) from twistedthrottle.com has transformed the bike. While the product can function as a poor man’s cruise control, we found it also provided a means for addressing the awful side-to-side slop and rattle felt in the twist grip. Combined with adjusting out excessive throttle cable free play, this simple mod has notably improved throttle control and eliminated the perceived “loose axle” feel through the bars over bumps.
Throughout our bike’s tenure, the
front brake has emitted an annoying squeal at speeds below 20 mph when braking lightly to a stop. We recently installed a set of EBC Double-H Sintered brake pads ($77.90) that have increased initial bite, reduced lever effort, and, thus far, have completely eliminated the braking noise. Stay tuned as we learn if this simple measure has permanently silenced the singing. EUi
SUZUKI
GSX-S1000
$9999
Total miles 0 7850 Next service 0 11,000 miles Maintenance costs 0 $1689.06 (incl. tires) Repair costs 0 $159.92 Average fuel mileage 0 43 mpg Price as tested (2016) 0 $9999
