New Suzuki GSX-S 950, a toned-down version of the GSX-S 1000 suitable for A2 licence holders

It is not only a fact in Spain, but across Europe too, where A2 licence holders are becoming increasingly numerous, and this consequently affects the line-ups of motorcycle manufacturers, meaning that we can find models of mid-capacity or higher from virtually all brands that may be restricted for use with this licence. Suzuki also wants to expand its slice of the cake in this sector of riders and, to that end, presents us with the new GSX-S 950.

The Hamamatsu brand unveiled the renewed GSX-S 1000 a couple of months ago, a maxinaked that arrived with striking styling and a renewed engine with increased power. Now, always taking this model as its base and reference, Suzuki proposes the new GSX-S 950, a model aimed at reaching a broader audience seeking a naked that is more docile and affordable, and which can be limited to 35 kW for all riders who still hold the A2 licence, or allow 70 kW of power for holders of the A licence.

The new Suzuki GSX-S 950 uses the 999 cc long-stroke engine that was once used in the GSX-R 1000 which, as a good four-cylinder, stands out for its strong low and mid-range performance and linear progression in acceleration. It has been adapted to the new Euro 5 regulations, its fuel injection system has been revised and adjusted to achieve lower fuel consumption, while the compact 4-2-1 exhaust system receives a new design and, to finish, it features the Slipper Assist Clutch Suzuki (SCAS), which allows smoother deceleration and better control when downshifting, while operating the clutch lever allows smooth use.

Surrounding this engine is a twin-spar frame, compact and lightweight, made of aluminium, combined with a double-sided aluminium swingarm derived directly from the GSX-R 1000. At the front it is fitted with a 43 mm inverted fork with KYB, which unfortunately offers no adjustment, although it comes from the factory with a sporty setting that will not be uncomfortable for everyday use; at the rear, by contrast, it has a progressive linkage system and a shock absorber that can be adjusted. Contact with the road is made through aluminium wheels fitted with Dunlop SportMax Roadsport2 tyres, while braking is entrusted to Tokico four-piston front calipers that grip two 310 mm floating discs, all complemented by the safety provided by the standard-fitted ABS system.

Stylistically, allowing for differences, future owners of this Suzuki GSX-S 950 could easily be confused at first glance with the GSX-S 1000, especially at the front, where we see that two hexagonal-shaped stacked LED headlights have also been fitted, and which, incidentally, will also be LED at the rear. The rider’s instrumentation is handled by a negative LCD display that provides plenty of information, yet remains easy to read.

For the time being, Suzuki has not revealed the price the GSX-S 950 will have in our country, but it has announced that its arrival on the European market will take place in September with the promise that its price will be competitive, something that will undoubtedly raise anticipation for this new model.