We’ve been waiting for it since 2011, and here it is: The brand new 2015 Suzuki GSX-S750A, a naked bike with a 4-cylinder engine derived from the 2005 GSX-R.

Following the conservatively styled Bandit models and the exuberant B-King, the GSX-S750A displays unique, racy lines from nose to tail -- directly in line with the brand’s sporty DNA.


Designed with sport-bike enthusiasts in mind
A wide, straight handlebar mounted right above the top clamp, a narrow and fairly low seat (815mm), and high footpegs contribute to a sporty riding position that's not overly taxing. Ergonomics are very good, making it easy to move your body as you attack corners. However, prepare to stretch and massage your legs after a few hours of riding due to above-average ground clearance.

The passenger seat on the 2015 Suzuki GSX-S750A is tiny and hard, with just a latch to hold on to, while the footpegs are positioned so the passenger doesn’t have to bend his or her knees too much. Protection against the elements is limited to radiator cowls and a small windscreen deflecting air away from the rider’s legs and torso, respectively. Meanwhile, the adjustable suspension allows you to choose a softer setting for rougher roads.

The traditional-looking instrument panel offers all the info you need including a large tachometer plus an LCD screen displaying speed, engine temperature, time, gear selection, odometer, fuel level, and average consumption.

The ideal balance
Where the chassis is concerned, Suzuki opted for simple solutions in order to keep the price low. A steel perimeter frame, square-tubed swingarm, and tubular steel rear structure combine to deliver the ideal mix of rigidity and flexibility.

The 2015 Suzuki GSX-S750A proves nimble around town thanks to smart geometry and a reasonable weight of 216kg (all tanks full). In fact, it weighs about the same as the FZ-09, and a bit less than the FZ8.

Charge!
Stability at higher speeds is greater than what the average naked bike offers. Sharp and determined through tight S-turns, the GSX-S750A lets the rider focus on the proper line to attack. It leans into corners almost intuitively, and shoots for the apex without locking or unsettling the front wheel. You can do wheelies with solid twist of the throttle, but overall this Suzuki remains fundamentally sound and easy to control.

Balance through braking maneuvers is aided by a firm, inverted front fork with supersport-like ability in corner entries. The brakes are easy to modulate, they never seem to fade, and they’re backed by advanced ABS which proves little intrusive. I personally would have liked a bit more bite, but the whole setup does a nice job most of the time.

The perfect engine size for having fun
Sitting pretty between 600cc sport bikes and 1,000cc superbikes, the 2015 Suzuki GSX-S750A proves undeniably fun to ride in the city thanks to generous mid-range torque and a long powerband. The engine is happy to get to work from just 1,500 rpm, comes alive around 3,500 rpm, and then explodes beyond 6,000 rpm all the way to redline at 11,200 rpm. It feels and sounds fantastic in the process, and you honestly don’t have to bother with the rev limiter.

Over the years, Suzuki has become a master at developing motorcycle transmissions and this is further evidenced by the unit in the GSX-S750A. Shifting gears is quick and easy at all times. As for fuel consumption, expect to average 6.7L/100km during sporty riding, and less than 5.7L/100km in more relaxed conditions.

Following the conservatively styled Bandit models and the exuberant B-King, the GSX-S750A displays unique, racy lines from nose to tail -- directly in line with the brand’s sporty DNA. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Plenty of bang for your buck
At the end of the day, this highly anticipated Japanese streetfighter has all the ingredients to have fun on a daily basis and escape on your favourite country roads during the weekend. Heck, you can even hit the local track and taunt a few sport-bike owners.

For the price, it’s hard to find a more exciting bike than the sporty 2015 Suzuki GSX-S750A. There’s the Triumph Street triple R, which costs more, and the Yamaha FZ-09, which doesn’t have as good a suspension.

Pros

• Unique, racy looks in line with the brand’s sporty DNA
• Simple, yet extremely sound and competent chassis
• Perfect engine for the type of riding
• Flawless transmission
• Quality suspension bests more expensive sport bikes

Cons

• Sporty riding position and suspension settings affect comfort
• Front brake could use a bit more bite given the machine’s performance potential