Suzuki GSX S1000

[Blackbird]

Is Suzuki still dictating 6,000 km service intervals in NZ? I see they are trying to be a bit Italian too - with dodge low speed fueling :-)

Allan - 1000 km first service, next one 12,000 km. I'll do an oil and filter change in the middle though. A lot of bikes have got dips in their power curves these days due to having to meet international emission laws. Mike Gayner mentions comfort. On the delivery trip back from Auckland, my arse ached pretty badly before I got home. Since that trip, it's turned out to be more comfortable arse-wise than my Street Triple! Guess it's a combination of my arse re-shaping itself and the seat bedding itself in a bit too

[Erelyes]

Thank god you got the nekkid-ish version. The faired one is most unfortunate looking. Glad to hear it's a good ride though.

[Blackbird]

Thank god you got the nekkid-ish version. The faired one is most unfortunate looking. Glad to hear it's a good ride though.

I don't think the faired one is too bad. The front is a bit pointy, but having owned a Blackbird, I got used to being called Beaky

It was riding a Honda X-11 belonging to a friend which turned me on to naked bikes. It helped to keep my speed down for one thing but it's nice just being out in the open air. I've got a Suzuki flyscreen on back order but that's as much for looks as protection. The outstanding job is to set the suspension up properly for my weight and the sort of roads I use most. It's a bit too harsh at present but is fine on smoother roads.

[AllanB]

Allan - 1000 km first service, next one 12,000 km. I'll do an oil and filter change in the middle though. A lot of bikes have got dips in their power curves these days due to having to meet international emission laws. Mike Gayner mentions comfort. On the delivery trip back from Auckland, my arse ached pretty badly before I got home. Since that trip, it's turned out to be more comfortable arse-wise than my Street Triple! Guess it's a combination of my arse re-shaping itself and the seat bedding itself in a bit too

Pretty standard service intervals now. I hear you regarding a 6 k change - probably just my age but used to earlier intervals for oil and it is cheap insurance.

Comfort is a subjective thing - different person on the same bike can disagree. I could not believe how firm the Ducati seat was when test riding (coming off the Hornet), but it is proving OK so far and on par. Just a different feel.

I think they should install a small switch on the ECU - factory setting and 'race' (or similar) the only difference is it changes two maps - one to meet emissions, one the ideal map. They could cover their arses with all types of stickers and blurbs in the owners manual saying it is for off road use only

[Mike.Gayner]

probably just my age but used to earlier intervals for oil and it is cheap insurance.

It's expensive insurance if it doesn't do anything. Personally I don't want to put a single extra unnecessary cent in the oil company's pockets, so I'll trust the engineers with their intervals.

[AllanB]

Depends on what your dealer is putting in the engine. Most use a semi-synthetic in their workshops but you may find the bike maker has based the 12 - 15 k service intervals on a full synthetic.

[Blackbird]

Pretty standard service intervals now. I hear you regarding a 6 k change - probably just my age but used to earlier intervals for oil and it is cheap insurance.

Comfort is a subjective thing - different person on the same bike can disagree. I could not believe how firm the Ducati seat was when test riding (coming off the Hornet), but it is proving OK so far and on par. Just a different feel.

I think they should install a small switch on the ECU - factory setting and 'race' (or similar) the only difference is it changes two maps - one to meet emissions, one the ideal map. They could cover their arses with all types of stickers and blurbs in the owners manual saying it is for off road use only

Yep, my age has a lot to do with it too and as you say, it's cheap insurance.

Absolutely, a huge variation in human arses! And a firm seat definitely doesn't mean uncomfortable. The Rider brand seat made for the Blackbird was very firm and I could ride for any amount of time and not get sore.

Haha - yep! Actually, the 3 traction control settings do change the engine characteristics and it is a bit smoother in rain mode. Haven't seen the need (or had the nerve) to turn it off as my name's not Rossi

[Moise]

I know which I'd prefer too - the one I can comfortably spend all day on.

I have a lower back problem and find that sportsbikes can be more comfortable than nakeds or tourers. But some of the newer sports bikes are too cramped.

[Owl]

Depends on what your dealer is putting in the engine. Most use a semi-synthetic in their workshops but you may find the bike maker has based the 12 - 15 k service intervals on a full synthetic.

Absolutely and exactly what was done to my bike last week during its 15K service. They are aware I won't allow the bike to do 15K without an interim oil change, so hence the semi-synth. Next service (30K) I'll be supplying the oil....and spark plugs.

[nzspokes]

I have a lower back problem and find that sportsbikes can be more comfortable than nakeds or tourers. But some of the newer sports bikes are too cramped.

Bike has to look like the rider, so what works for you works. I have lowered pegs on my sports bike and it works a treat.

[sinned]

A GSX S1000F will be my next motorcycle. Photo of demo from Hastings Suzuki.

[Blackbird]

A GSX S1000F will be my next motorcycle. Photo of demo from Hastings Suzuki.

Great stuff.

I'd recommend some crash protectors at an early juncture. I fitted R&G on my naked one. About 2 weeks after taking delivery, I managed to stall the bugger whilst leaned over and it was past the point of no return for my short legs . Had to step off it and the protector did its job!

[AllanB]

A GSX S1000F will be my next motorcycle. Photo of demo from Hastings Suzuki.

I'm a huge naked bike fan. However while on Holiday two weeks back the Suzuki dealer at Motuekua has one of each parked out front for sale (surprised me as they usually only have dirt and Stroms in stock when I'm up there).

The fairing one is a looker and not overly plastic. Looks ideal for NZ roads if you are planning on some good trips.

[nzspokes]

The fairing one is a looker and not overly plastic. Looks ideal for NZ roads if you are planning on some good trips.

Dont they lack a bit on luggage options?

[Blackbird]

Dont they lack a bit on luggage options?

Ventura have a system, there's one from Hepco and Becker and the Oxford throwovers that I have also work well!