perfect. Suzuki has a long-standing reputation for making sweet-shifting gearboxes and the GSX-8 engine is continuing that legacy. Suzuki also has a historic love for acronyms and that’ s not looking like it’ ll change either, with the electronics systems that cover traction control and ABS braking being named SIRS( Suzuki Intelligent Ride System), STCS( Suzuki Traction Control System) and SDMS( Suzuki Drive Mode System) for engine management. A fly-by-wire throttle and EFI enables A / B / C drive modes and all adjustments are controlled via handle bar mounted switch gear and viewed on the 5-inch TFT screen. Mode A is the noticeably sportiest and offers a particularly engaging power delivery. B and C modes offer a progressively softer response. SIRS does its thing in the background and is never noticeable which is a sure sign it is well calibrated – I found no noticeably intrusive action from the TC or ABS. The TC can be switched off and the ABS is lean sensitive.
KIWI RIDER 63