Suzuki GSX-S 950 test: malleable roadster, available in A2

A 1000 cc 4-cylinder engine available in A2 version? Yes, it does exist. Declined from the GSX-S 1000 roadster, the tasty and versatile 950 demonstrates it.

From a single motorcycle, Suzuki offers three power levels. The most efficient version is called GSX-S 1000 and develops 150 hp.

More accessible (- € 2,800) but aesthetically identical (apart from a few details, of course…), the GSX-S 950 here uses the same engine, deflated to 95 hp for the occasion. But it can still come down to 47.5 hp, to meet the requirements of the A2 license.

On paper, this allows a young driver to enjoy a rewarding motorcycle during his two years of limitation and then, after a stint at Suzuki, to climb to 95 hp. The maneuver, reversible, costs 100 € and does not require any part change.

Once unleashed, by doubling the power available to the right wrist, the GSX-S 950 changes register.

To the remarkable availability – the maximum torque is delivered from 3,250 rpm in A2 – which serves urban driving and responds perfectly to the usual (and legal) gaits, then a real thrust and a nice extension are added.

The range of use revised upwards benefits the performance of the 95 hp version, jovial and pleasant. We can always regret a certain linearity during accelerations, as well as the appearance of tingling at certain diets.

Most the cavernous sound of the 4-legged gives a smile, its flexibility facilitates daily life and its frank reminders meet all requirements. Too bad the gearbox control, without history, does not take advantage of the GSX-S 1000’s shifter.

The inverted fork (not adjustable), taken from the 1000 but whose anodized sheaths have exchanged their golden appearance for a gray color, erases imperfections well.

Stable and equipped with well-calibrated suspensions, the “Suz” hardly dives under braking and transcribes everything there is to know in the handlebars. Driving is natural and easy, even when the rhythm is changing.

As required by the category to which it belongs, this Japanese has adopted a sharp physique, exacerbated by the dual frontal optics … which does not provide any protection. It’s a pure roadster, compact and racy, which relegates the practical aspects to the second rank: storage is limited to not much.

But the driving position a bit engaged remains pleasant, despite the legs well folded, and the hollow saddle allows put both feet on the ground.

The tank volume (19 liters) allows you to drive for a long time between two refills and the LCD display, with simple ergonomics, precise (too many?) Numerous parameters.

As a replacement for the GSX-S 750 no longer meeting antipollution standards, the 950 is displayed from 10 399 €.

A price a bit high compared to that of a BMW F900R (8,870 €) or a Kawasaki Z900 (9,549 €), which can also be restricted, but from which the Suzuki is however distinguished by its more extensive equipment.

Suzuki GSX-S 950 test: our opinion

Advantageous plastic and flattering approval for this Japanese frame, which promises A2 license holders all other sensations after unlocking. Its demonstrative engine and its dynamic qualities make it a very good machine.