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Maybe sport tourers are not Dead?

46 posts Started 23 Sep 2021 Last recovered post 23 Nov 2021 Wayback Machine snapshot 28 Jan 2022

#1

Suzuki enters the fray for those not seeking an ugly ADV Bike.

What do you think?[image: GSX.webp.35a0e39491b81a603c0a7eadeb8931ec.webp]

#2

Only disappointed that there is no center stand..... otherwise it's pretty cool.

[image: Suzuki-GSX-S1000GT-Plus-f-633x388.png.69e910388aee89d99cbbf12274f06722.png]

#3

I think I would prefer the bars a tad lower a la VFR.

Colors are underwhelming, maybe a silver or even white would have been nice.

Interesting machine though.

#4

Lets not forget about Moto Guzzi which just threw its hat in.

#5

How about this candy red version I did up in photoshop. Looks better now.

#6
4 hours ago, VFR80025th

Suzuki enters the fray for those not seeking and ugly ADV Bike.

What do you think?[image: GSX.webp.35a0e39491b81a603c0a7eadeb8931ec.webp]

I have been starting to get the new bike itch....that Suzuki is looking good.

Nothing in the Honda line up covers this....

-> The VFR800 should have evolved into something like that..

#7

Very nice Suzuki!  Love the bright blue and even the mocked up candy red. I would like a metal flake deep yellow myself. Really any color, just so very tired of black, grey, silver, gunmetal, white bikes and cars. 
 

Really like that Guzzi too, just wish it had factory luggage. 

#8
3 hours ago, VFR80025th

I think I would prefer the bars a tad lower a la VFR.

Colors are underwhelming, maybe a silver or even white would have been nice.

Interesting machine though.

Looks like the fairing rules out putting clipon adapters on it

#9

I think the big black hunk of fairing around the radiator is hideous. I think it may be meant to look like a bastardized MotoGP downforce wing.   Otherwise, it's a decent looking bike, though I'm not into the angular Transformers look.  I'd still love to try it and the Ninja 1000SX out.  I looked for a 1000SX for several months, but none were within several hundred miles of me.  I pretty much gave up and decided I'd have my 6th gens forever.  

#10
10 minutes ago, tbzep

I think the big black hunk of fairing around the radiator is hideous. I think it may be meant to look like a bastardized MotoGP downforce wing.   Otherwise, it's a decent looking bike, though I'm not into the angular Transformers look.  I'd still love to try it and the Ninja 1000SX out.  I looked for a 1000SX for several months, but none were within several hundred miles of me.  I pretty much gave up and decided I'd have my 6th gens forever.  

Agree about that black fairing, doesn’t help the looks at all. 
 

For years I had been trying to find a Kawasaki demo near me that I could attend to try the Ninja 1000. Finally did a few weeks ago. Other than the tech and a bit more comfort it didn’t wow me liked I hoped it would. What I did get a big kick from was the 900RS. 

#11

I think its ugly but am glad to see Suzuki throw their hat into the ring, hopefully this inspires Honda to think about coming out with something, maybe a new VFR we can hope. 

#13
31 minutes ago, Calculon

Agree about that black fairing, doesn’t help the looks at all. 
 

For years I had been trying to find a Kawasaki demo near me that I could attend to try the Ninja 1000. Finally did a few weeks ago. Other than the tech and a bit more comfort it didn’t wow me liked I hoped it would. What I did get a big kick from was the 900RS. 

Was it a 2020-2021 1000SX?  I found some new 2019's still in showrooms in far away places, but the bike was redesigned for 2020 .  I think the Kawi spec's at 140 hp and 82 lbf torque where the Zook is showing 150 and 78 with 5 traction control modes (plus off) and 3 throttle modes.  It might be a tad bit more interesting to ride.   

#14

Not terrible looking IMO, but the upper cowl and headlight combination looks like a duckbill.  Very odd looking.  But still better than the new Katana, which looks awful.

My biggest gripe at first glance is the lack of a centerstand.  Sport-touring motorcycles should have centerstands, especially chain-driven bikes.  😕 

#15
1 hour ago, tbzep

Was it a 2020-2021 1000SX?  I found some new 2019's still in showrooms in far away places, but the bike was redesigned for 2020 .  I think the Kawi spec's at 140 hp and 82 lbf torque where the Zook is showing 150 and 78 with 5 traction control modes (plus off) and 3 throttle modes.  It might be a tad bit more interesting to ride.   


Yes, it’s the latest model. Don’t misunderstand me, it was a fun and engaging bike and I needed to do two demo loops just to adjust to it and had far more fun the second try when I knew the route and bike better. The 900RS felt more torquey and responsive (more like a VFR) while the 1000SX was super smooth, maybe even a bit detached from road feel.  My thoughts after the demo rides were wishing Kawasaki would make the 900RS into a retro or neo-retro sport tourer, similar to the Guzzi posted above with the nice touring features of the 1000SX. 

#16

Got my modern sport-tourer sorted already...could do with a taller screen and a bigger tank, but it is light, comfy and fun...

#17
17 hours ago, Terry

Got my modern sport-tourer sorted already...could do with a taller screen and a bigger tank, but it is light, comfy and fun...

[image: IMG_1982.jpg]


I gave one of these a go a few years ago at a demo event in Laconia. Loved it!  Such a great ride in every way. I’m not a fan of the design but you could say that about all Yamahas these days from my point of view but the bike was great. Talking with one of the Yamaha reps that owned one and his only negative comment was the range as you mentioned. It’s shockingly small to use as a tourer. 

#18

At first I thought the new Suzuki in the original post above was a sneak preview or concept bike.  There's a particular website that claims to show new or future models, but sometimes it's just a mockup and not actually real.  But today I happened to be on Suzuki's website and the new bike is listed among the company's streetbikes.

That's not a knock on @VFR80025th or @slo1 of course!  I just didn't know the source of those photos.  I'm glad they posted them here.  😉

I think this new bike is looks pretty good, except for the headlights.  I can overlook the duckbill upper cowl design, but why are motorcycle companies so keen on putting weird looking headlights on so many new bikes?!

#19

I like it, but I don't think they will sell well.  Maybe I'll buy one on clearance in a few years when my vfr is ready to retire.

The real question is how happy can you be with an inline 4 after years of riding a Honda v4?

#20
Sparkie, 9/24/2021 at 6:32 PM

The real question is how happy can you be with an inline 4 after years of riding a Honda v4?

I couldn't do it.   I bought a BMW boxer twin to replace my VFR.  And to be honest, I don't think I even considered any bikes with inline 4s when I was bike shopping last year.  I wanted a motorcycle with an engine that has some character.  I'm not saying I couldn't be happy with an inline 4, but I just prefer a more interesting engine.  😉 

#21
Terry, 9/23/2021 at 6:01 PM

Got my modern sport-tourer sorted already...could do with a taller screen and a bigger tank, but it is light, comfy and fun...

[image: IMG_1982.jpg]

My buddy has an MT-10. I absolutely love the bike. He added the comfort seat and I convinced him to throw on a Madstad windscreen. It’s the most compelling, modern bike I’ve ridden. If Yamaha would just come out with a Tracer GT-10, I’d be all over one. 

TimC, 9/24/2021 at 6:14 PM

I think this new bike is looks pretty good, except for the headlights.  I can overlook the duckbill upper cowl design, but why are motorcycle companies so keen on putting weird looking headlights on so many new bikes?!


Agreed. These tiny headlights are a safety issue, IMO. What I noticed about the MT-10 is the spread of light is non-existent. Without a sizable reflector, headlight performance suffers. Second, oncoming traffic only sees a slight sparkle, at a distance, meaning the motorcyclist is mostly invisible. I told my buddy he needs to figure out an auxiliary light setup, so he has a triangle of lighting for oncoming traffic to see. If it wasn’t for me knowing he was a motorcyclist, I wouldn’t know what he is either, the times I’ve met him on the road. Large reflectors create a sizable light source oncoming traffic will notice. 
 

As for the new Suzuki, I love the concept. That platform is a solid foundation and I believe it’s going to be a worthy bike to own and ride. Like some of the others, I’m not crazy about the leading edge of the nose. I think, the stylists could’ve done a better job with that area. 
 

The Guzzi looks as dated as the company, itself. The legacy and history thing is played out, as proven by their abysmal sales numbers. 

#22

My version of Sport Touring was heavy on Sport and not much on sight seeing...

#23
BusyLittleShop, 9/27/2021 at 1:38 PM

My version of Sport Touring was heavy on Sport and not much on sight seeing...

 

[image: Mr.RC45RapidTransit.jpg]

[image: MrRC45NevadaRoad11.JPG]

I ABSOLUTELY love that front cowl and the round headlights. :wub:

#24

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 MSRP: $11,299

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT MSRP: $13,149

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ MSRP: $13,799

#25
ducnut, 9/27/2021 at 7:46 AM

Agreed. These tiny headlights are a safety issue, IMO. What I noticed about the MT-10 is the spread of light is non-existent. Without a sizable reflector, headlight performance suffers. Second, oncoming traffic only sees a slight sparkle, at a distance, meaning the motorcyclist is mostly invisible. I told my buddy he needs to figure out an auxiliary light setup, so he has a triangle of lighting for oncoming traffic to see. If it wasn’t for me knowing he was a motorcyclist, I wouldn’t know what he is either, the times I’ve met him on the road. Large reflectors create a sizable light source oncoming traffic will notice. 

and if they do see the tiny lights, such small size would give impression that bike is further away than actual. Increases risk of them pulling out in front of you.

#26

Love the new Suzuki 1000 GT, lighter than a non abs 07 vfr 800, more power/ torque, adjustable suspension, ride modes, cruise control, traction control, ABS, nice dash that you can synch your phone to, led lighting, comfortably upright seating.    
 

I love my vfr but time and continued development of modern motorcycles means Honda’s once proud flagship has seen better days.   
 

My current Suzuki Bking has been a better sport tourer than my vfr FOR ME if I’m honest.  Better Suspension, brakes and these days sit up comfort are what I’m into.    My current Suzuki has been less fussy than my vfr over the years so I would expect this GT variant to be a winner.   
 

[image: CE1EF1BC-C6CA-4743-A4FF-40982EC46F07.jpeg.6371a9a5a674c05b9a11072359a8b4f8.jpeg]

#27

IMO, this is a very compelling video in favor of the bike. I REALLY want to ride one. 
 

#28

Looks good... no range... 

Glad to see something that isn't ADV or parallel twin entering in the sport tourer category,  but not nifty enuf to make me leave my 8th gen 

#29

Nice enough looking bike, definitely better than its naked counterpart (is that like saying one sister in a sweater is better looking than her naked sister??  hmmm . . .) and luggage is a plus.  I don't care much for nanny features, or anything electronic beyond ABS.  Anyway, if I had one I'd probably enjoy riding it.  It would though likely be something I'd just ride the piss out of, not care too much if it were clean or otherwise scuffed up a bit and would never love on it.  It would be just another bike.  But, with 150 ponies, it would leave just about any Honda V4 in the rear view.  Good on Zuk for taking a shot at keeping an entry in the ST segment.  👍

#30

Pretty interested in the bike, ....I'm due for a bike that I ride the piss out of.....150hp? I'll take it...the NT1100 with 100hp and red line at 7400 rpm is sounding boring.

#31

I was thinking of attending the motorcycle show up in Cleveland to see this and some other new models, but it looks like there are no indoor shows scheduled for this winter.  I guess I'll have to wait until they show up at the local Big 4 dealer shop, which is anyone's guess if and when they'll get those models.  Not only due to the pandemic, chip shortage, and supply chain situations, but because since I know these new ST bikes won't sell in big numbers, I bet most dealers will stock very few of them, if they can even get any in the first place.  😕 

#32
7 hours ago, mello dude

Pretty interested in the bike, ....I'm due for a bike that I ride the piss out of.....150hp? I'll take it...the NT1100 with 100hp and red line at 7400 rpm is sounding boring.

Watching the review video (from someone who has actually ridden the Suzuki) the tank range is not even as good as the VFR1200 and that bike was slated by the press for poor tank range. That and no centre stand or heated grips or top box really don't add up to me. I shall take a look at the Motorcycle Live show in December but I'm not expecting it to deliver what it should.

If only they'd put a VFR or derivative VFR engine in the NT 1100 spot.....

#33

Suzuki specs show a 5gal fuel tank. Ridden reasonably, it should be plenty of duration for my rickety body to endure. 

#34
2 hours ago, ducnut

Suzuki specs show a 5gal fuel tank. Ridden reasonably, it should be plenty of duration for my rickety body to endure. 

Why would you ride 150hp reasonably? 😜

#35
1 hour ago, Skids

Why would you ride 150hp reasonably? 😜

Good point!  We do have long straight roads between our areas of curvy roads.  I guess we could ride reasonably there.  Nah.  😉

#36

Range is definitely a concern - 5 gallons? If I can go 175 miles, I'm good... ... wanting to see a CycleWorld testing and also a S1000GT vs NT1100 vs Tracer 9 test by the same. 

It will all shake out come spring... 

:beer:  

Or... just screw it, grab one of these, the dash is gorgeous. I sat on it, didn't find the ego's for me all that bad... 

As a design, I think its beautiful. A purpose designed fighter jet. 

 [image: 20210925_121111-M.jpg]

#37
17 minutes ago, mello dude

Range is definitely a concern - 5 gallons? If I can go 175 miles, I'm good... ... wanting to see a CycleWorld testing and also a S1000GT vs NT1100 vs Tracer 9 test by the same. 

It will all shake out come spring... 

:beer:  

Or... just screw it, grab one of these, the dash is gorgeous. I sat on it, didn't find the ego's for me all that bad... 

As a design, I think its beautiful. A purpose designed fighter jet. 

 [image: 20210925_121111-M.jpg]


I think, they’ve done a great job on this bike. It’s enough progress forward, without losing where it came from. I like the other colorway, though. 

#39
mello dude, 11/4/2021 at 3:50 PM

As a design, I think its beautiful. A purpose designed fighter jet. 

 [image: 20210925_121111-M.jpg]

Origins of the Hayabusa goes back to WW2... it was a WarBird that was deadly and feared but

the bike version is big engine big power big deal... a real butt plug in the bendy bits...

[image: hayabusa1-jpg.38783]

#40
mello dude, 11/4/2021 at 6:50 PM

Range is definitely a concern - 5 gallons? If I can go 175 miles, I'm good... ... wanting to see a CycleWorld testing and also a S1000GT vs NT1100 vs Tracer 9 test by the same. 

It will all shake out come spring... 

:beer:  

Or... just screw it, grab one of these, the dash is gorgeous. I sat on it, didn't find the ego's for me all that bad... 

As a design, I think its beautiful. A purpose designed fighter jet.

I mostly agree with the mileage thing, but I think any bike sold as a sport-tourer should have at least a 200-mile range, especially if it takes premium fuel (though I have no idea whether those new bikes do).  I've run into a situation once or twice where the small town I stopped in for fuel had one gas station, and it was 87 octane only.

As for the 'Busa, if I wanted a hyper-tourer, I'd go for a Concours 14, with its OEM hard bags and more agreeable ergonomics.  😉

#41
33 minutes ago, TimC

I've run into a situation once or twice where the small town I stopped in for fuel had one gas station, and it was 87 octane only. 

When I pull into a small town, the kind that have one station, I purposely buy 87.  I'm not rolling the dice on the "premium" tank that likely has heen sitting quite a bit longer.

#42
5 hours ago, Captain 80s

When I pull into a small town, the kind that have one station, I purposely buy 87.  I'm not rolling the dice on the "premium" tank that likely has heen sitting quite a bit longer.

Good point.  I don't figure half a tank or so of lower octane once in a while is going to do much harm, but I at least like having the choice.  My current bike takes premium, as does my car.  😞

#43
mello dude, 11/4/2021 at 10:50 PM

.....A purpose designed fighter jet. 

 [image: 20210925_121111-M.jpg]

Hmmm. Fighter jets are manoeuvrable, extremely manoeuvrable if you want to fly the best. Not sure that accolade could be said about the 'busa.

Intercontinental Ballistic Missile might be more appropriate. 😁  :beer:

#44
10 hours ago, Skids

Hmmm. Fighter jets are manoeuvrable, extremely manoeuvrable if you want to fly the best. Not sure that accolade could be said about the 'busa.

Intercontinental Ballistic Missile might be more appropriate. 😁  :beer:


Years ago, I did a trackday where a few of the AMA pros showed up to horse around. One of them rolled out his streetbike, a Hayabusa. That guy blew by me on the front straight like I was standing still. Watching him trying to get it stopped for turn one was the entertaining part, as the rear was wagging and his body motions indicating panic, he finally got it reigned in right at the edge of the asphalt. He told a pretty animated story in the pits, as well, and left the bike in the pits where it belonged. Good times. 

#45

We get very few Busas at track days...which is okay with me. I can remember one guy at CMP a few years back on one. He left very early stating, and I'm not kidding, that "the track was broken." I love telling that story. 

#46
1 hour ago, bmart

We get very few Busas at track days...which is okay with me. I can remember one guy at CMP a few years back on one. He left very early stating, and I'm not kidding, that "the track was broken." I love telling that story. 

I think, now you have to tell the story!

End of thread · 46 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 28 Jan 2022