2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ | Suzuki Isn't Dead & Neither is Sport-Touring!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a machine that blends touring comfort with genuine sportbike aggression – and the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ delivers this balance with a throttle-wide grin. Once considered a fading spark in the motorcycling world, Suzuki has returned with bold intent. While many thought Suzuki had gone quiet, the GT+ proves that not only is Suzuki alive and well – but sport-touring is far from dead.

The new GSX-S1000GT+ is more than just a facelift or a repurposed platform. It’s a redefinition of what a modern sport-touring motorcycle can be. Loaded with sophisticated electronics, aerodynamic design, and long-haul comfort, this machine is turning heads across the UK – especially amongst riders who want a bike that can attack B-roads on a Sunday and cruise effortlessly through Scotland on Monday.

Design and Styling – Aggressive With a Purpose

The first thing that grabs your attention is the GT+’s assertive styling. Sharp angles, aerodynamic fairings, and bold colours offer a refreshingly modern aesthetic for a touring bike. The dual LED headlights not only look aggressive but throw an impressive beam for night-time riders and roadtrippers alike.

Its design is aimed at functionality, too. From the wind-tunnel-tested fairings that reduce drag and wind buffeting to the tapered seat optimized for long-distance comfort, the GSX-S1000GT+ maintains an excellent balance between form and function. Riders who appreciate thoughtful design will respect how every detail serves a purpose without losing visual impact.

Subtle details like the flush fuel tank lines and winglets on the sides of the fairing contribute to its high-speed stability. And with integrated panniers and a sleek tail section, the GT+ looks as refined fully loaded as it does stripped for a weekend blast.

Engine Performance – GSX-R Roots, Refined for the Road

Under the fairings lies the heart of the beast – the legendary 999cc inline-four engine borrowed from the GSX-R1000 (2015 version). It has been tweaked for a broader torque range and smoother throttle response, which makes the GT+ superbly usable in day-to-day riding and high-speed touring.

Producing a healthy 150bhp and slick power delivery through its ride-by-wire throttle, this engine doesn’t just sing – it howls when you open it up. Whether overtaking on a motorway or pulling out of a tight corner on twisty A-roads, the power is immediate and linear.

This bike is built for the UK’s blend of motorways, rural back lanes, and everything in between. It offers the exciting top-end delivery of a litre-bike but with mid-range usability perfect for commuting, touring, or a weekend blast to the Lakes.

Electronics – Tech-Heavy for Today's Rider

With sport-touring, rider aids and electronics are vital – and Suzuki has clearly taken this seriously. The GSX-S1000GT+ comes with a robust electronics package that rivals much more expensive competition.

You'll find a 6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen, smartphone connectivity via the Suzuki mySPIN app, full Bluetooth and navigation capabilities, cruise control, quickshifter with auto-blipper, and a five-mode traction control system. This all works together to create a rider-centric interface that never distracts but always enhances the journey.

The inclusion of cruise control is particularly welcome for long-haul riders, especially for UK highways where maintaining a steady speed is crucial. The screen is also easy to read in all lighting conditions, which is a must for those cross-country trips that start at sunrise and end in the dusk.

Ride Quality and Ergonomics – Long-Distance Comfort Meets Daily Versatility

Here’s where the GT+ shines brightly. Unlike many bikes that struggle to decide if they’re a sportbike or a tourer, the GSX-S1000GT+ unapologetically embraces both. The riding position sits between upright and slightly forward, striking a sweet spot for all-day comfort without feeling too detached from the road.

The seat is plush yet supportive – a nod to motorcyclists who treat the saddle like a second home. In the UK’s varying road conditions, the suspension setup handles both rough tarmac and sweeping corners with grace. The fully adjustable KYB front forks and rear shock allow riders to tailor the setup whether riding solo, two-up or with a fully loaded pannier system.

Clearing roundabouts, filtering through city traffic, and winding through scenic routes are all in a day’s work for the GT+, and it does them with agility and poise. This is a motorcycle equally at ease commuting into Bristol or devouring the North Coast 500 route through the Scottish Highlands.

Panniers and Touring Features – Ready for the Open Road

The GSX-S1000GT+ doesn’t just flirt with long-distance touring – it’s equipped for it. The “plus” in the name refers to the sleek, 36-litre colour-matched side cases that come standard. They’re aerodynamic, waterproof, and lockable, making them ideal for UK weekends away or even continental trips.

For passengers, there are generously padded grab rails and a comfortable rear seat, perfect for longer two-up journeys. Plus, there's the option for heated grips and a taller touring windscreen – all factory accessories tailored for practical use without sacrificing the bike's sleek silhouette.

Whether heading from London to Snowdonia or touring the Yorkshire Dales, the GT+ has the storage and comfort you need to keep going long after the sun dips below the horizon.

How It Compares – A Compelling Alternative in the Market

In a competitive sport-touring segment populated by heavyweights like the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX and BMW’s F900XR, Suzuki’s GSX-S1000GT+ holds its own impressively. It undercuts them on price while matching or exceeding on functionality, performance, and day-to-day usability.

Below is a comparison table to show how the Suzuki stacks up against similar models commonly considered in the UK market:

Clearly, the Suzuki offers incredible value, especially with its full suite of touring equipment included in the base price. This makes it an appealing proposition for both first-time sport-tourer buyers and seasoned riders reconsidering more premium brands.

Final Thoughts – Suzuki's Comeback Kid

If the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ proves anything, it’s that Suzuki is far from retiring – and neither is sport-touring. For enthusiasts across the UK – from young professionals with a taste for adrenaline to seasoned tradesmen planning long-distance getaways – this motorcycle is a beacon of balance in an increasingly niche segment.

It delivers serious road presence, thrilling performance, and the kind of versatility that makes ownership feel rewarding, not restrictive. More than just a new entry in the Suzuki lineup, the GT+ is a declaration: the spirit of sport-touring is alive and ready for the renaissance.

If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to upgrade your aging sport-tourer or just looking to reintroduce some thrill into your daily commute or weekend escape – the GSX-S1000GT+ should be at the top of your list.