Tag Archives: Suzuki Motorcycles

Suzuki Motorcycles India Appoints Satoshi Uchida as Head of Company

Satoshi Uchida, the previous Deputy Executive General Manager of Motorcycle Operations at Suzuki Motorcycles Operations in Japan, has just been appointed the new Company Head of Suzuki Motorcycle India – replacing the previous Koichiro Hirao, and setting new standards for the company.  

Uchida has a long history with Suzuki Motorcycles, having put over 30 years of work experience into their global market in India, Japan, and most recently, the USA.  With the Indian Company Branch boasting assembly of all of Suzuki’s two-wheeler products, Uchida has large plans for the company that involve the growing demand in oversea markets.

According to IndiaToday, models manufactured at Suzuki Motorcycles India include the new Hayabusa, V-Strom 650 XT, Gixxer SF 250, Gixxer 250, Gixxer SF, Gixxer, Intruder, Access 125, Access 125 Bluetooth Enabled Edition, Burgman Street and Burgman Street Bluetooth Enabled Edition.

Senior officials of Suzuki Motorcycles at unveiling of latest GIXXER range of motorcycles

“I am delighted to join Suzuki Motorcycle India again after a gap of just two years of my earlier assignment here in India. This company has always been very close to my heart. In fact, India is one of the largest manufacturers of two-wheelers in the world. For us at Suzuki, it offers immense opportunities for growth, and it will be my endeavour once again to further consolidate our base here in India,” Uchida says.

“Today”, he adds, “we manufacture or assemble the entire Suzuki two-wheeler product portfolio available in the Indian market. Our Gurugram plant makes all these products to cater not only to the domestic demand but also to cater to the demand of our overseas markets. I would like to further strengthen our commitment to the Make-in-India programme in our efforts towards gaining a much higher market share in the premium segment.”

Suzuki Motorcycles experienced a new all-time record in their monthly sales back in April of 2021, with 77,849 units sold – 63,879  of which were sold on the domestic market, and 13,970 internationally. 

Vintage Norton motorcycles owned by a group of Singapore enthusiasts

Senior Officials of Suzuki Motorcycles India showing off limited edition bikes

Uchida’s new position as Company Head was in effect as of May 1, with previous operations in the US passed on in favour of the prodigal return to India.

And with such a long line of experience under the company’s influence – domestically and internationally –  I look forward to great things that Uchida will do for Suzuki Motorcycles India.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 | First Look Review

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 review
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Metallic Triton Blue

Just a few months after announcing the updated-for-2022 Suzuki Hayabusa, Suzuki has unveiled another updated sportbike. The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 is a naked sportbike powered by an updated version of the GSX-R-derived liquid-cooled 999cc in-line four.

Introduced for 2016 in both naked (GSX-S1000) and faired (GSX-S1000F) versions, the GSX-S used a detuned version of the engine from the K5 (2005-2008) GSX-R1000.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 review

For 2022, the GSX-S1000 gets more aggressive, angular styling with stacked LED headlights and MotoGP-inspired winglets. Its new 4-2-1 exhaust system with a stubby silencer on the right side meets Euro 5 emission standards. Updated camshafts and valve springs, a new fuel injection system and a new airbox deliver increased power and a broader, smoother torque curve. A 6-speed transmission is mated to a wet, multi-plate clutch equipped with the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) for smoother deceleration and better control when downshifting.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 review

Like the Hayabusa, the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), which includes the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), Suzuki Traction Control, Ride by Wire Electronic Throttle, Bi-Directional Quick Shift, Suzuki Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.

The GSX-S1000’s twin-spar aluminum frame and aluminum-alloy braced swingarm are from the GSX-R1000. Fully adjustable KYB suspension, ABS-equipped radial-mount Brembo monoblock calipers, an updated seat design, new wheels shod with new Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires, revised instrumentation and switches, and a new larger fuel tank (5 gallons, up from 4.5) round out the street-oriented sportbike package.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 review

The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 will be available in Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matte Mechanical Gray and Glass Sparkle Black. Pricing is TBD but bikes will arrive in dealerships in Fall 2021.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Specs

Base Price: TBD
Website: suzukicycles.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse in-line four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 999cc
Bore x Stroke: 73.4 x 59.0mm
Transmission: 6-speed, wet multi-plate assist clutch
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Wheelbase: 57.5 in.
Rake/Trail: 25 degrees/3.9 in.
Seat Height: 31.9 in.
Wet Weight: 472 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gals.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Photo Gallery:

The post 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Suzuki Separating Marine and Motorcycle Divisions Come 2021

For America, That Is

Suzuki Motor America just announced that the two divisions (motorsport and marine) will be facing official separation come April of 2021. Rather than sharing dealerships and other assets, the two subsets will be fully separating and operating 100% independently moving forwards. What does this mean? Suzuki is looking to divorce the brands in hopes that they can succeed on their own without the other propping them up.

Suzuki’s official statement has some words about the separation, “This new organization is designed to give both new companies the best opportunity to optimize their success in their respective industries.

“Both the Motorcycle/ATV and Marine Divisions are enjoying solid success in their respective businesses. As we proceed in reorganizing into two separate companies, we look forward to the Suzuki brand continuing to thrive in the United States.”  it continued.

Not only are they just separating business practices, but also HQ’s as well. This is a much bigger move than we initially anticipated as the Motorsport brand will stay at their current headquarters locates in the San Francisco Bay area while the Marine division will be packing their bags and heading to – a much more fitting area for their sort of business – Tampa, Florida. This also means that Suzuki will have complete coast-to-coast ruling which can be a valued asset in the business world despite the fact that the brands will be pretty much independent going forwards.

Bloodbikes Australia has become an integral part of transporting COVID-19 tests from testing centres to medical laboratories.

Hopefully, this will allow the respective divisions to focus on their true goals without the other interfering, and I look forward to Suzuki (and their customers) reaping the benefits from this bold strategy.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

VIDEO: Motorcyclist Magazine Reviews the Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R

Living the Busa Life

Motorcyclist Magazine recently had a chance to get in the saddle of the Suzuki Hayabusa GSX1300R. Adam Waheed of the magazine does a good MC Commute ride on this machine, showing that despite the bike’s age it still has what it takes to thrill you.

The Hayabusa has been out for seven years in its current form. It’s been pulled from most markets due to its emissions, but it still endures in certain markets. Suzuki lists this machine on its USA and Australian websites, and it likely won’t stay for long. There have been rumors of a Hayabusa replacement, so if you love the Busa, then you should consider getting one before it receives an update. Or, heck, maybe you want to wait.

With this bike being out for so long, there are plenty of them on the used market that you can pick up for very little money. Some have been modified time and time again, but when you find an unmolested one, you’ll have a very nice sportbike to ride. Even if you find one that has been modified, you’ll still have a wild ride.

Waheed goes over what makes this bike special and why it’s still one of the top contenders in the 1000cc-plus category for sportbikes. Check it out below.

Historic Island Classic Race

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2021 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Models are Now Available in Australian Suzuki Dealerships

The V-Strom Is Here for 2021

Recently, the 2021 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT hit Australian Suzuki dealerships. The adventure bike is a machine that’s been proven to be one of the best adventure motorcycles on the market.

The V-Strom 650XT features a 645cc DOHC v-twin engine that puts out 70 hp and 62Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. It’s a reliable engine, too, known to be tough enough to handle the demands of an adventure rider for mile after mile. There’s also a learner version of the bike that has a maximum output that’s restricted to 47 hp to mee the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme requirements.

2021 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT engine

The V-Strom 650XT comes with switchable multi-mode traction control. This system monitors a variety of stats and adjusts the controls and engine output accordingly by altering ignition timing and air delivery to the v-twin engine. You can adjust the sensitivity to suit your riding needs and preferences.

The motorcycle also has an aluminum twin-spar frame, a seat befitting an adventure tourer and known as one of the more comfy seats out there, disc brakes with ABS (twin 310mm discs up-front with twin-piston calipers and a single 260mm disc in the rear with a single-piston caliper.

2021 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT

The motorcycle also has wire-spoked aluminum-alloy rims as standard equipment. These rims get Bridgestone Batlax Adventure A40 tires. The V-Strom 650 XT also gets hand guards and protection from the engine to help keep the bike in good condition as you traverse rough terrain. There’s also a 12-volt DC outlet allowing you to charge a mobile device if you need to.

For 2021, Suzuki also has two new Genuine Accessory luggage kits, including aluminum luggage and top box. The bike is currently for sale at Australia Suzuki dealerships. The MSRP for the V-Strom 650XT is $13,490 Ride Away. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Suzuki Launches SmartMeet Video Chat in Italy

Talk to a Product Specialist

Do you have questions about some of Suzuki’s latest machines? Well, if you’re in Italy, you can have a chat with a salesperson or product specialist from the safety of your home.

Suzuki Italy just launched a new video chat system that allows for telemeetings for potential customers who want to discuss bikes and start the buying process. It’s called SmartMeet, and you can schedule a meeting. 

SmartMett uses a variety of video chatting software (whatever the customer wants to use) to interface with the person who set the appointment.

You can schedule a meeting via Skype, Zoom, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet. Italian customers can go to Suzuki’s SmartMeet website and schedule an appointment.

When you schedule an appointment, you’ll be able to specify what you want to discuss, and that should help get you in front of the right person who will have the correct answers for you.

While some manufacturers are trying to do fully virtual sales, this seems like a very smart second option. Suzuki is providing customers a way to get in touch and start the process without physical contact.

It will be interesting to see if the company plans to roll this out elsewhere, my gut tells me it will if this goes well in Italy. I also have a feeling it will go well.

If you’re in Italy (or you just want to check out the SmartMeet setup) check out the website by clicking here

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

RECALL: Suzuki GSX-250R Headlight Issue

A ‘Glaring’ Issue With The 2018 GSX-250R Headlight

Driving at night isn’t my favorite thing to do – especially on a motorcycle – especially if my headlight decides to turn off mid-ride. I’m sure we’ve all driven cars that have a burnt-out headlight before, but luckily there’s a second to act as back up in addition to your brights for many layers of reassurance. Heck, my roommate has driven his car with a headlight out for almost a year now (mind you, neither of us drive at night).

The 2018 GSX-250R takes this problem and makes it 10x as dangerous as it’s a motorcycle-related problem. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published a document stating that 2,040 registered in the USA could be affected.

The document includes the issue and states it as a problem regarding the bulb filament breaking prematurely. Luckily this isn’t the end of the world as Suzuki suggests taking it to the dealership to get a new bulb popped in, but we can only hope that there isn’t something beyond the bulb that is causing them to show premature signs of breaking.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to replace a lightbulb (insert how many X does it take to change a lightbulb joke here), but Suzuki recommends you still bring it to a dealership so they can keep track of the repair when dealing with the recall on their end. No worries, it’s covered under warranty even if your unit is expired.

If you ride a smaller GSX in America it’s probably worth giving the Suzuki customer service department a call and giving them your VIN to ensure you don’t own one of the bikes affected.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Suzuki Releases New Tech Teaser

Last week Suzuki put out a post on their official motorcycle Instagram stating that a “superior way to ride” will be coming soon. The caption stated: “The world is getting smarter, and so is your two wheeler! Get ready for a new, smart way to ride with #SuzukiIndia.”

With the very obvious hint towards a “smarter” ride and the image attached looked like a display of some sort, we can safely assume their small-displacement motorcycles will be perhaps featuring a new smart display or something along those lines. The post was hashtagged #SuzukiIndia – and we all know India loves their small-displacement motorcycles.

toronto motorcycle film festival

Fast-forward a few days later, they continued the teaser show by releasing a video on their Instagram. The video doesn’t have any information to offer other than flashy text overlay on the video stating “Introducing a technology that lets you stay in charge. stay tuned!”. Hmmmmm, thanks, Suzuki… You’re really going out of your way to make my job easy.

Again, I’m going to go out on a limb and assume this has something to do with either smartphone connectivity to their smaller bikes, or a new display giving you more information than before, or both.

In order to put out a new display, you obviously need a new motorcycle to present it on. I think we can safely assume that this new display and “technology that lets you stay in charge” (…) will be featured on a new bike. Friends over at rideapart.com speculate that they may be coming out with a slightly larger 250cc version of the bikes, so we’ll play it by ear.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

100th Anniversary Limited Edition Suzuki GSX-R1000R Coming to the UK

Suzuki has its 100-year anniversary coming up. The motorcycle company has a limited edition GSX-R1000R that it has created for the occasion.

Only 100 of the limited-production machine will be made and the price for one of these will be £16,999 ($22,000 USD). The bike comes with a retro-inspired livery that is featured on the GSX-RR MotoGP bike. This means you get a blue slate silver color scheme that pays homage to Suzuki’s racing motorcycles.

Suzuki GSX-R1000R Limited Edition

Otherwise, the motorcycle has the same variable valve timing system and the suite of electronics that the GSX-RR has. That includes 10 traction control settings, a quick-shifter, auto-blipper, launch control, and lean-angle-sensitive ABS.

The bike has a four-stroke 100cc engine that makes 199 hp and 86.7 lb-ft of torque. It weighs 488 lbs (203 kg). It can do a 0-60 mph sprint in just three seconds.

Suzuki GSX-R1000R Limited Edition

2015 Sturgis Rally senior citizens

“With just 100 of these bikes available in the UK this is a unique opportunity to own and be a part of Suzuki history. The GSX-R range, and the 1000 in particular, has long been the flagship range of sportsbikes with an illustrious history both on-road and on the race track. To mark 100 years of our Suzuki company it was only fitting to adopt the retro-inspired livery of bikes that have achieved and contributed so much to our history,” said Suzuki GB’s head of motorcycles, Jonathan Martin.

It’s fantastic to see Suzuki celebrating its 100-year anniversary with a special bike like this. The motorcycle is a special machine and anyone who’s a GSX-R fan or a sportbike fan, in general, should be pretty excited about this machine. It will be on sale in the UK next month.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Suzuki Slashes Katana Price & Adds Value

Suzuki Motorcycle Australia has slashed $3000 off the price of its revived Katana and introduced two value accessory packs to help the model which has failed to make a showroom impact.

While it’s a great bike to ride, the styling has divided opinions and the bike has failed to live up to its exhilarating forebears.

It arrived this time last year at $18,990 (ride away with 12 months’ rego), but now costs just $15,990.

Suzuki Katana

To further boost interest, Suzuki has added two value cosmetic accessory packs.

The $1499 Shogun Pack brings the ride away price up to $17,749. It consists of: Two-tone seat, smoked visor, front and rear axle sliders, body decals and carbon fibre front fender, clutch cover, starter cover and alternator cover.

Suzuki Katana

Tom Cruise stunt

The $595 Samurai Pack lifts the price to $16,845 and includes: Two-tone seat, smoked visor, carbon-design tank pad and side protection decals, plus body and rim decals.

Suzuki Katana

You can “build your own” Katana on the official website and clicking on the ‘Build Your Bike’ feature.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com