As manoeuvrable as a supersport
Thanks to a V-Twin with loads of attitude and a modern and well-designed frame, the Gladius is a real delight in town. Light, user-friendly and manoeuvrable, this is one effortless ride. It’ll get you out of traffic in a non-terrifying way and doesn’t encourage any tomfoolery. On the highway, the Gladius remains quite stable. The only fly in the motor oil is the minimal protection against the wind, which forces you to keep the speedo under the 120-km/h mark.

The suspension offers the perfect balance between stiffness and suppleness. Comfortable on rough roads, the Gladius outdoes itself when the corners start coming hard and fast, though a little less pitching would be nice when braking. As for the brakes themselves, they take a moderate line and have neither the aggressiveness nor the brute power that we know and love on a sport bike. On the flip side, they do a good job in normal riding conditions and include a more efficient, less intrusive second-generation ABS system.

Suzuki has created an affordable, comfortable and thrilling road warrior, complete with ABS and attractive Italian styling. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour/Moto123.com)

In a nutshell, the little Zook is a marvel in the mechanical department, boasting an SV-derived but completely redesigned V-Twin that is simply exemplary. Ditto for the frame and its intelligent geometry and ergonomic riding position, which only enhances the feeling of coziness behind the handlebars.

The only thing that might cause buyers to reconsider is the plasticky finish on either side of the fuel tank and the lack of protection from the elements. But one thing is certain, Suzuki has created an affordable, comfortable and thrilling road warrior, complete with ABS and attractive Italian styling.

Pros
Exemplary engine and transmission
Aristocratic frame
User-friendly and ergonomic

Cons
Zero protection against the elements
Wimpy brakes
Plasticky finish around the radiator