A ride that makes you smile!
The proof of the pudding comes when you start to ride the bike, when Suzuki’s intent and how well the bike works stand out. Only the least experienced will need a (short) familiarisation period on the Gladius, while virtually everyone feels instantly at home. The engine does not vibrate at any rpm, it simply hums and breathes easily as you ride along, with some intake noise showing up as I got over 120 kph and it started to work a little harder. In city or slower riding, you simply gas it a bit and it jumps forward in a measured rather than violent sort of way.

I loved the Gladius, priced at $9,199.

The non adjustable suspension is the one weaker point of this bike, as designers leaned on the mushy rather than firm side in front, and only provided for adjustable preload in the rear, working with soft compression and stiffer rebound damping. This combination provides a silky ride on smooth surfaces, with notable deterioration on bumpy surfaces. Similarly, the brakes are mellow, with adequate stopping power but without the bite and excess power we have learned to love on sportier bikes – fine for newbies but I would like a little more confidence-building bite.

Well done, Suzuki
I loved the Gladius, priced at $9,199, just as I appreciated its direct competition from Yamaha (The FZ6R at $8,799), Kawasaki (The ER-6N at $7,949) or Ducati (The sexy Monster 696 at $9,995.) In their own way, these machines are aimed at the same market, young and restless or older and restless newbies, and returnees. I am glad not to have to choose one, as you will have to balance out looks, feel, budget and dealer support to come to the right decision for you.

I have to get back on the bike to go buy another apple at the IGA – across town!





Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert