SUZUKI GSX-S750 (2017 - on) Review
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Highlights
- Priced competitively
- Based on K5 GSX-R750 engine
- Great first big bike
At a glance
Owners' reliability rating: | |
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Annual servicing cost: | £450 |
Power: | 112 bhp |
Seat height: | Medium (32.3 in / 820 mm) |
Weight: | Medium (470 lbs / 213 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThe launch of the Suzuki GSX-S750 was something of a washout. If it wasn’t raining it was threatening to rain, spitting or just plain damp. All of which seldom helps show a bike in its best light – especially one that Suzuki claims is an ‘apex predator’.
- Related: Best naked bikes
So what do I make of the GSX-S750? That’s a hard question to answer. There is absolutely nothing wrong whatsoever with the GSX-S750. Replacing the GSR750 in the firm’s model range its revised engine is more spirited than the lackluster version in the GSR.
The new inverted forks, radial brakes, 12-spoke wheels and swingarm give the GSR’s chassis and extra injection of handling performance and the ABS and three-stage traction control all work very well indeed.
In fact, the whole bike works very well and aside from a tiniest bit abrupt throttle when going from closed to open, there isn’t much to complain about. The GSX sounds, handles, stops and goes much better than the GSR750 it replaces.
So why am I failing to feel too excited about it? Here is the GSX-S750’s problem. It’s a very good bike, and at £7599 is also great value. But it isn’t an outstanding bike and that’s its issue. In a field as competitive as the premium middleweights (which for 2017 includes the revised Yamaha MT-09 and the new Kawasaki Z900 and Triumph Street Triple) you need to be outstanding and as good as the GSX-S750 is to ride, it doesn’t do anything to make itself stand out.
If you like the look and want an inline four Suzuki, it’s arguably a more refined bike than the GSX-S1000, certainly better than the GSR750 and is a really good and very competent road bike. But would I pick it over the competition? Probably not as while it is hard to fault, it’s equally as hard to really fall in love with and for me a bike needs a spark of excitement to make me want to part with my cash.
Having ridden the new MT-09, and being a fan of the old smaller capacity 675 Street Triple, I suspect in the group comparative test these new models of competitor’s bikes will demonstrate this spark of excitement the GSX-S750 lacks.
A2 licence-friendly Suzuki GSX-S750
In 2018 the firm revealed a 47bhp A2 licence-friendly version of the GSX-S750, making it a great long-term companion for younger riders who can't take their A licence yet. As of 2021 the GSX-S950 has joined the range as an A2 restrictable version of the GSX-S1000 so it is unclear what lies ahead for the 750 model.
New colour for 2021
In July 2021 Suzuki announced the colour scheme above to keep the GSX-S750 feeling fresh. The list price remained £7999, but Suzuki also offered a £500 discount at the same time.
Watch: Suzuki GSX-S750 video review
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Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineDespite lacking fully-adjustable suspension, Suzuki has done a very good job of getting the GSX-S set up for road use. It’s a good handling bike that feels very secure when ridden hard and the riding position is typically naked-bike comfortable.
The brakes and handling exceeded expectations, too. The Brembo stoppers of the GSX-S1000 have been replaced by Nissin items and, for the suspension, there’s only preload adjustment front and rear – but none of test team had any complaints.
For normal riding, I wouldn’t change a thing because the GSX-S carries its weight with ease, is stable and predictable. Like the Ducati, the Suzuki’s steering lock is limited but on the open road some of the test team preferred the Suzuki.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityBased around the GSX-R750 K5’s inline four, the GSX-S750’s engine is smooth and lacks any surprises. It’s easy to live with, sounds great when revving and has a good throttle connection. The three-stage traction control works well and the clutch is light, however overall it does lack that spark of excitement that its rivals boast.
The GSX-R engine may have been ‘retuned’ for life as a relatively sensible naked but there’s still a lovely induction noise when the throttle is opened, and it will happily rev all the way to its 11,500rpm redline. It’s fast but far more user-friendly than its big brother, the poorly-fuelled GSX-S1000.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueThe K5 engine is a solid lump and reliability issues on the GSR750, which uses a very similar motor, are very rare. Suzuki’s finish has improved recently and there is nothing to hint that the firm has skimped on the GSX-S750. Touches such as the black finish on the levers and pegs helps prevent corrosion in some traditionally poor areas.
Our Suzuki GSX-S750 owners' reviews show overwhelmingly positive scores, with one claiming it's the "best naked on the road". High praise indeed.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentAt £7999 the GSX-S750 is the cheapest bike in its class. However there isn’t much difference between its price tag and its rivals’ and the likes of the Yamaha MT-09 SP add fully-adjustable suspension and a quickshifter to the party while the 2017 Triumph Street Triple is also very technologically advanced.
The battle for middleweight naked sector supremacy became even fiercer with the release in 2020 of the superb KTM 890 Duke R, but that costs £2,500 more than the Suzuki.
Group test: Suzuki GSX-S750 vs Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha MT-07 vs Ducati Monster 797
First published 10 May 2017 by Adam Child
There was a time when entrylevel middleweights were lacking in power and X-factor. Machines like Kawasaki’s Zephyr 550 and Suzuki’s GS500 remain supremely easy to forget. But over the years this ‘budget’ segment of the market has become a key battleground – and the bikes have dramatically changed for the better. Stir in some tempting PCP deals and the class looks even more desirable. Three key models – Suzuki’s GSX-S750, Ducati’s Monster 797 and Kawasaki’s Z650 – are fighting to take sales from the undisputed king of middleweight value, Yamaha’s MT-07. So where does the smart money go?
The MCN verdict
If money wasn’t an issue then we might be tempted by the Ducati Monster 797 as it’s the most desirable and has the sweetest handling. And although the motor lacks a little gusto it’s more than sufficient for road riding. But if it were my money on the table, it would be the Yamaha MT-07 every time – at £6099 it’s an all-round bargain and, pound-for-pound, one of the greats of motorcycling. At only £69 a month on PCP, the Kawasaki is pretty tempting, even cheaper than the Yamaha at £89, and if you intend to spend more time in the city than out of it, the Kawasaki could be ideal. The Suzuki exceeded our expectations. It’s comfortable, quick and stylish – as well as being our first choice for big miles and outright power – but there’s no way it can touch the Yamaha for its all-round versatility.
Equipment
You get ABS and three-stage traction control as standard, as well as radial brakes and an LCD dash taken from the GSX-S1000 that includes a gear indicator and fuel gauge. The suspension only has spring preload adjustability, which is a shame, and there is no slipper clutch.
Styling-wise, the GSX-S obviously shares a family resemblance to the bigger Thou, and includes a much-improved swingarm design, newly-designed 10-spoke cast aluminium wheels wearing Bridgestone S21s in 120/70ZR17 and 180/55ZR17 fitments, and tapered handlebars. Gone are all the cheap-looking chrome details, replaced with matt black for a far more modern feel.
It was available in Metallic Triton Blue / Glass Sparkle Black, Pearl Mire Red and Metallic Matt Black.
Specs |
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Engine size | 749cc |
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Engine type | Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, inline four |
Frame type | D-section and round tubular steel |
Fuel capacity | 16 litres |
Seat height | 820mm |
Bike weight | 213kg |
Front suspension | 41mm KYB inverted forks, adjustable spring preload |
Rear suspension | Single shock, 7-way adjustable spring preload. |
Front brake | 2 x 310mm discs, four-piston Nissin radial calipers; ABS |
Rear brake | 240mm disc, one-piston caliper ABS |
Front tyre size | 120/70X17 |
Rear tyre size | 180/55x17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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Average fuel consumption | 50 mpg |
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Annual road tax | £117 |
Annual service cost | £450 |
New price | £7,999 |
Used price | £5,000 - £7,000 |
Insurance group |
- How much to insure? |
Warranty term | 2 year unlimited |
Top speed & performance |
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Max power | 112 bhp |
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Max torque | 59.7 ft-lb |
Top speed | 120 mph |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 150 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
The GSX-S750 replaces Suzuki's GSR750 in the firm's range with a revised, more spirited engine.
Owners' reviews for the SUZUKI GSX-S750 (2017 - on)
13 owners have reviewed their SUZUKI GSX-S750 (2017 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your SUZUKI GSX-S750 (2017 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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Overall rating: | |
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Ride quality & brakes: | |
Engine: | |
Reliability & build quality: | |
Value vs rivals: | |
Equipment: | |
Annual servicing cost: | £450 |
Version: ABS
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £1
Wind it up and around 8k it is an angry bag of bees. A smooth ferocious sounding bag of bees. It has the suspension, brakes and chassis to handle it. The transmission (no slipper) is like a Swiss watch. No quirks to ride around - you can focus on the ride. Last of the naked I4 750s - sad.
It is a great backroad scratcher, and all the controls are precise. The suspension is firm, but well damped. The rear shock can give you pat on the butt, but It's never thrown off line even on rough surface broken roads. Brakes are strong and have great feel. It is an involving ride, and the bike works with you - a real joy.
It is an inline 4 and a smooth one, but with a fantastic metallic snarl as the revs build. Wind it up and it is very quick. Anywhere around 8k seems its happy place (or my happy place) - smooth and instant power on tap. Below 6k it is easy going and you can tootle around.
It is well built. The wiring is tidy and everything is well screwed together. The plastics have tabs that can break if you're not careful. Has been totally reliable.
Haven't had to service it yet beyond a new tires and an oil change. Did it myself.
It's got ABS and TC - and a comprehensive dash. Pretty basic, but all I need. The law says - Suzuki= Yoshimura - so I got one. Looks and sounds good(with baffle) - pure vanity. I like hand guards (givi). Doesn't need a windshield - airflow is clean . Stock tires were good, continuing with the updated version (bridgestone battleaxe s23). Get an LED headlight.
Version: Gsxs750x
Year: 2023
Annual servicing cost: £150
I found the seat uncomfortable. Put on a bagster seat. Much better. I also added a rack for the pillion. I have had many bikes litre sports bikes. You don’t need the power. Riding this bike bike and wringing its neck is great. I went touring on it. It did 61 mpg that was sticking to 100kph. Did 330ks on a tank easily. Ride it hard and that drops a lot. Hahahah.
I do all the services even though i got the bike from new. I simply don’t trust shops to do it correctly.
Tyres are good. But only lasted 5k that’s kilometres. So I am going with BT023. They are really good.
Year: 2019
Lovely to ride, handles like a dream, nice feel with controls switches etc, downside passenger seat and no suzuki rear grab handles, would definitely recommend
Can't fault handling, on any country road,.sweepers or tight twisties,.breaks really nice feel, ( good stoppers) pillion seat not the most comfortable, no suzuki rear grab rail, one aftermarket only which i purchased, hence 4 out of 5, ( reluctantly not 5 )
Considering I was a gsxr750 for years until 2005, ironically the same k5 engine, masses of lowdown grunt, top gear roll on from 35mph is better than my mates mt09, acceleration also spot on so 5 out of 5, love it,
Lovely build, no corrosion, still looks like new, only 1500 miles done,
Only had one service to date very low milage but would think the cost would be reasonable, hence 4 out of 5
Engine and looks top dog, tyres great, passenger grab rail a must,
Buying experience: Dealer..6.5k.& 6.5k paid 1200 miles only, like new, 👍
Version: Phantom
Year: 2021
I have always ridden off road MX, enduro and trials bikes. Due to police crackdown, the gang have moved to the road. So this is my first big road bike. It is a very easy, comfortable bike to ride. It is nippy in the corners and the battlax tyres stick the the road like Sh*t. The bike is has a lot of power and torque at high revs, you do need to give it some beers at low revs. Definitely the right choice for first big boy bike.
The bike is comfortable to ride but it does seem to have higher foot rests like the GSXR would have. Have to stretch my legs now and again. Im 5ft 10. I will need to have a break after 2hrs. It is a decent all road bike, alot of fun on the bends and can shift when pushed.
As mentioned previously, the bike can shift at high revs, but it’s also very good when riding through towns or built up areas. It’s very economical and good on fuel, I only use the E5 super unleaded, abit more expensive but I do get better mileage.
No issues so far. Easy to maintain. Decent components fitted. My bike is grey and black with gold forks and blue rims. Very nice looking bike. Small exhaust should have been better. Big and clumpy standard exhaust
I did have a 3 year maintenance deal with Thunder road motorcycles. I think a full service without deal would be approximately £190
I do like the 3 stage traction control with the option to turn off all together. Basic dashboard but I like that, not to technical and easy to use.
Buying experience: I bought from thunder road motorcycles in Bridgend. Excellent buying experience. To be honest I had the bike for a steal, in my opinion. So these bikes at the time were £8300. Thunder road do pre reg bikes which meant, the bike was brand new(no fluids etc) but thunder road was classed as the first owner as they registered the bike before October 21. So I had a brand new bike but classed as the 2nd owner for £6999. If I was to re-sell I’d still get over £7300 for it. BARGAIN Thank you thunder road
Version: 2021 limited edition colour (back, yellow & white)
Year: 2021
Annual servicing cost: £200
This bike is amazing, I don't get why MCN only give it a 3/5 that must be an error on MCN side. I don't have anything bad to say about it it's just awesome.
Can ride this bike all day its so comfy, especially from riding sport bikes for 20 years I should have made the cross over to a naked style bike sooner.
It's a 750cc and I'm a massive fan off this class having had 5 different models of the GSXR 750 and ZX7R, the 750cc is amazing perfect power.
The quality is fantastic. It's a Suzuki you need nothing else in your life.
The running costs are so low for this outstanding bike, another great reason why I love so much.
The clocks just right everything you need. The styling of the GSX-S 750 is epic. Only thing to say and like most bike the standard mirrors I'll say no more on that haha, I have got a pair of Oxford bar end mirrors on mine totally changes the look.
Buying experience: Got an fantastic deal and world class customer service from 5-ways motorcycles.
Year: 2020
Excellent bike, quality of finishing on paintwork
Paint coming off the tank due to my jacket rubbing against the tank
1st service price includes having a plastic skin put on my tank due to my jacket rubbing the paint off
Buying experience: A touch disappointing down to having a problem with the paintwork, & a lost key, bought a replacement & after 3 weeks waiting to get the key programmed, phoned the dealer & he spoke to his mechanic & he left the phone on speaker & all I heard was a load of abuse aimed at me, & my insurance renewal from carol Nash coming in £100 dearer, they blamed a computer glitch, I’d already found another insurer £328 cheaper,overall a crap experience
Version: Phantom
Year: 2018
Annual servicing cost: £3,000
Fantastic motorcycle for city commuting
Abs works really and suspension is quite good for city
Buying experience: Awesome service from Alpha Motorcycles
Version: Z (Yoshimura +)
Year: 2020
Annual servicing cost: £200
Excellent motorcycle. Been driving for +30 years and had quite a few, but this is the best handling I have tried. I generally find inline fours a bit boring, but that's just taste :)
Nice and linear pull from way down to redline. It is great on twisties.
Not a lot of fancy equipment on it, but this is reflected in a good price.
Version: L7 Blue/ Black
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £120
A great first big bike
My first big bike. It has given me lots of confidence as it is relatively easy to ride and inspires you to have a play. Can also equally chug along at 30mph smoothly and it is good for commuting. Have taken it on a track day and it performed brilliantly. Great all rounder!
Excellent quality overall. As with all new bikes, there isn't much grease on lots of the inner parts, which will affect the bike with age if left. so i have added grease to parts such as the rear wheel axle myself. Never broken down, never had a part fail.
Took a while for Suzuki to release their accessories, but when they did there was a good range of nice additions like the seat cowl and custom seat. Also bought some nice wheel rim tape and the tank pad. The Bridgestone Battlax S21 tyres are great for both road and track days.
Buying experience: Bought from Streetbike Halesowen for £7550 OTR
Version: Phantom
Year: 2018
This bike is an absolute beauty, it lacks in features somewhat from other bikes. Minor issue I have is the Low RPM assist, not having experienced it on any other bikes I have ridden it does throw me off. But in contrast it is actually very helpful at ultra slow speed riding, just takes some getting used to.
Have not needed a break on this bike at all, it is super comfortable to ride even in bad weather. Clamping down on the back brake can create a bit of a worrying noise but apart from that ABS and front brake will stop any stupid decisions.
Beauty, you will not feel you are lacking any power whatsoever.
Have had no issues whatsoever in terms of any parts failing, have dropped the bike once and can barely tell that anything has happened to it. Definitely has road presence.
For about £12 in the UK I can get 3/4 of a tank of performance petrol. Can last me easily about a week but the way I ride it, it lasts a lot less.
Not much to say here.
Buying experience: Bought from a Suzuki dealership under a PCP contract. Cheap and affordable.
Version: L7
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £120
performance handling and quality are all excellent highly recommended and contrary to some press reports an equal to the competition.
suspension set up is spot on even though it is only preload adjustable, plush ride and behaves when pushed. the brakes are very good at speed once youve got some heat into the pads with much more initial bite than when cold.seat is a little on the hard side of comfortable.
engine is very smooth and pulls right through the rev range with a slight hike in power from 8500 revs up. sounds glorious at higher revs with yoshimura optional can on and the induction roar is sublime
much improved build quality over suzukis of old
usual dealer servicing costs but parts are reasonable and does 50+ mpg on average
gear indicator, 3 stage easily adjustable traction control, ABS,average fuel consumption, range etc everything required
Buying experience: bought from via moto sheffield at list price but good trade in and excellent service
Version: z phantom
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £135
best= mixture of low down grunt & high end power worst= high seat hight
happy commuting loves to be thrashed handels amazing feels as light as a BMX when your driving it
could do with a bit more power im putting a full scorpion on mine lose the cat K&N filter job done
great build quality reliable as a swiss watch
thrash it 50mpg go easy 60mpg
LCD dashes are the future love it traction control works really good too brakes are amazing brembo's are for label junkies
Buying experience: saltire motorcycles £8039 otr best place in scotland to buy a bike
Version: z phantom
Year: 2017
Annual servicing cost: £125
114bhp not 112 out handles other bikes in same class
mega comfy ride it 3-4 hours non stop easy. over 6000rpm MT09,Z9 could not stay with me. brakes are really good loads of feal this bike can scratch with the best of them
6000-12,000 rpm this bike is total hooligan, on scottish A&B roads your matching leathers & bike POWER RANGERS become tiny specs in the mirrors very quickly
exellent build quality dynamite gearbox
LCD dash is the way forward, nothing like the traction control light flickering to make your arse twich, bridgestone tyres are amazeballs.
Buying experience: bougth from saltire motorcycles £8039 on the road