Back in 2021, Suzuki stirred the pot with an interesting trademark filing for a new 1,000cc motorcycle, dubbed the GSX-S1000T. It would sit between the GSX-S1000 and the GSX-S1000GT, serving duty as an inline-four adventure tourer to rival the Kawasaki Versys 1000. Though Suzuki has remained tight-lipped since then, it looks like the Japanese giant is finally ready to launch the new Gixxer soon. We say this because the first-ever spy shots of the ADV tourer have now surfaced on the internet, revealing plenty of juicy details. These also hint at an imminent launch by the end of 2023.
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000T Has An Edgy Design, In Line With The GSX-S1000
While we can't use the images (copyright violations for the win), the most noteworthy element in the spy shots is the design. Unlike the naked, the T flaunts brawny bodywork, complete with a massive top fairing and edgy side panels. No, these don’t come from the GSX-S1000GT and feature an all-new shape to set it out from the rest. Also, there’s no lower cowl here, as seen on the GT.
Other than this, a closer look reveals a new headlight and windscreen. The former has vertically stacked LEDs (reminiscent of the GSX-S1000) while the latter appears to be an all-new unit with manual adjustability. All this time, the latter half of the motorcycle looks exactly like the GT, thanks to the puny exhaust and chunky tail panels. The only addition is the aluminum luggage rack.
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000T Has Different Ergonomics
Like the design, Suzuki has tweaked the riding posture as well. Both the rider and pillion saddles boast thicker padding than the GSX-S1000, while the handlebar now rests a new riser. This, along with the mid-set footrests, should ensure a sporty yet comfy sitting position. That being said, the new tourer will be slightly harder to live with, credit to its 825 mm seat height–15 mm more than its naked sibling. The new seat height is confirmed in Suzuki’s trademark filings.
Once aboard the saddle, you’ll be greeted by a TFT instrument cluster. It looks identical to the 6.5-inch unit found on the GSX-S1000GT and will probably give you access to a similar set of features. These include multiple ride modes, power modes, traction control, a bi-directional quickshifter, and smartphone connectivity. Suzuki’s Easy Start system (one-push starter) and low-RPM assist will make the cut too.
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000T Will Produce 150 Horsepower
Next, let’s talk performance. To no one’s surprise, the GSX-S1000T will carry forward Suzuki’s 999cc, inline-four engine from the GSX-S1000–a derivative of the iconic GSX-R1000 K5’s powerhouse. It produces 150 horsepower at 11,000 RPM and 79.66 pound-feet at 9,250 RPM, both same as the naked and confirmed by Suzuki filings. The six-speed gearbox will remain unchanged too.
The decisive bit, however, will be the weight. You see, all the bodywork makes the new tourer tip the scale at 498 pounds–a full 26 pounds more than the naked. So the T should (in theory) feel slower than the naked in terms of outright acceleration. Both bikes max out at the same 149mph top speed, though.
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000T Has Similar Underpinnings To Its Naked Sibling
Last but not least, the spy shots give us a good look at the GSX-S1000T’s underpinnings. The suspension comprises upside-down forks and a monoshock, while the motorcycle rides on 17-inch cast alloy wheels bit by Brembo calipers up front and a Nissin caliper outback. These are all identical to the GSX-S1000, although we do expect more suspension travel here. You should also know the tourer measures 47.8 inches in height and 84.3 inches in length–5.3 inches and 1 inch up from the naked, respectively.
The 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000T Will Break Cover Soon
With the first spy shots out, there’s a solid chance the GSX-S1000T will break cover by the end of 2023. We expect Suzuki to take off its wraps at the 2023 EICMA, followed by an early U.S. launch in 2024 by its American division. Once out, the T will primarily lock horns with the popular Kawasaki Versys 1000. But from what we know, it already has an edge over its Japanese contemporary, thanks to a near-30-HP advantage, better features, and a more striking design. Plus, Suzuki has nailed its pricing of late, so the GSX might even undercut the Versys. For reference, Kawasaki only sells the Versys 1000 SE LT+ in America, priced at $18,899.