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Review of the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S950

POSTED: 08/11/2022

"The GSX-S950 truly takes home the bacon"

When the new Suzuki GSX-950 landed in store here at Laguna Motorcycles, we handed it straight over to Brayden (Content Lead) for a more in-depth look at the model. Check it out and see where Brayden feels it fits into today's motorcycle market.

If you'd like to try this bike, call us to book your demo ride today at 01622 681765.

Scroll down to see his review...

GSX-S950 side view

Thoughts on the bike...

GSXS-950 engine

How were the engine, power and torque?

"I quite liked the 950, it offered playful power which you can really spring around town or enjoy on an urban ride. It boasts a much lower gear grunt, with gears one through to three offering a substantial length and characterful exhaust tone. You get tons of torque to play with which is great for street riding and it's definitely not a stranger to taking off first from every set of traffic lights. As you'd expect from a newer motorcycle, the gear shifts were as smooth as marble and the clutch light on the touch - perfect if you're commuting or using the bike for regular travel. I personally couldn't fault the GSX-S' engine as it does exactly what I'd expect from a high quality Suzuki bike. It's a bike that's available on the A2 market as it can be restricted; however, it gives the rider an instant power upgrade when they derestrict it.

If you hold a restricted licence, the GSX-S950 truly takes home the bacon as it's fun to ride and gives off 'big bike' vibes."

How are the brakes, handling and riding position?

"Perfect for the average street rider, the brakes offer a grippy yet progressive response that will be sure to keep you out of trouble. If you are a boisterous bad-boy rider, perhaps a change of pads is necessary as the brakes are a little insensitive on the first bite - but for the average street rider, you won't run into any problems. 

Handling the 950 can be a bit challenging. It's definitely not a motorcycle ready for you to put your knee down, but it offers good agility for everyday urban riding. The riding position on the other hand cannot be faulted. I was in the saddle for a couple of hours and didn't get uncomfortable for even a moment. There's an easy reach to the handlebars, the controls are accessible without the need to move your hand around and the knee bend angle is more than acceptable."

GSX-S950 handling forks
GSX-S950 cockpit

Technology - Was it useful?

"The bike comes with a keen package of technology including a Selectable Traction Control System, Ride-By-Wire throttle, Easy Start System and informative LCD display. I quite liked how crisp the LCD display was - there were no unnecessary graphics or information I wouldn't use on a day-to-day ride - it was precise and crisp. The bike comes with LED headlights and tail light which give great visibility in both day and night conditions, and they're styled a little like what I'd imagine a spaceship's headlights to be like. Funky! Another point to add is that it comes with a handy average fuel consumption meter and tank range indicator - for any daily commuter like myself this can be really helpful."

What modifications would you make to this bike?

"Like I mentioned before, I would probably want to upgrade the brakes on this motorcycle. The bike has substantial power but limited braking capability at higher stopping speeds. This is mainly dependent on what style of riding you do though. You may find there is more than enough power behind the lever pull.

This bike sounds great straight out of the factory so an upgrade to the exhaust system wouldn't be necessary, however I would be intrigued to hear the beast roar at full potential - perhaps with a RaceFit end can! 

I think if you were using this bike for long commutes on the motorway, a screen may be a wise investment too. There's not much in the way of wind resistance on this stock motorcycle and although it offers a comfortable riding position, it could become tiring after an hour with high winds."

GSX-S950 decals

The verdict...

"I'd say that overall this bike is a good bet for the restricted rider - it offers everything you could want from a larger motorcycle with accessibility on an A2 licence. The bike sounds absolutely great straight from the factory and offers a beast-like roar in gears one through to six, with a street-like grunt to give you joy at every traffic light.

The bike offers substantial handling, braking and comfort whilst boasting a premium feel, and features like the informative display, gun metal forks and styling are taken directly from its larger capacity brother, the GSX-S1000. It's an exciting bike to ride and you'll definitely have some fun on it wherever you are!" 

Side profile of GSX-S950

Test ride this bike...

Suzuki GSX-S950

-4-stroke, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC 999cc engine-
-Max power of 70kW @ 7,800rpm (95PS)-
-Max torque of 92kW @ 6,500rpm (67.86lb. ft)-
-Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil-damped forks-
-Rear link type, coil spring, oil-damped suspension-
-Packed with Nissin premium brakes-
-Kerb mass of 214kg-
-Fuel capacity of 19L-

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