The final race weekend of the 2022 MotoGP World Championship season has ended with emotions running especially high for Team Suzuki Ecstar, who bow out – not only from the season, but from the championship.

They did it in spectacular style as Alex Rins led from start to finish in the Valencia GP, taking a whole-hearted victory. Joan Mir showed his usual grit and perseverance to take a solid sixth place.

The team have achieved many great things in the relatively short space of just eight years, with the undoubted highlight being the team and Joan Mir becoming World Champions in 2020.

The journey to the final flag has been quite the adventure, ranging from the very first prototype test in 2012 to the last victory just a few weeks ago in Phillip Island, so instead of dwelling on our exit, we wanted to highlight some of the key moments of our last eight years in MotoGP:

2014: Although the story started under the spotlights of an official MotoGP test in 2013, the wheels weren’t truly rolling until we entered the championship in 2014. Aleix Espargaro arrived at his first day with the team with a statement helmet reading: “The Story Restarts,” and the intention was set.

2015: The first full season back coincided with the 30th anniversary of the legendary GSX-R1000 and a stunning retro livery was unveiled for the riders, Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Viñales. This ‘bedding in’ year resulted in several Top 10 race finishes and 11th and 12th respectively in the championship standings.

2016: The first sweet taste of success came just one year later, with Team Suzuki Ecstar and Maverick Viñales’ first MotoGP victory at Silverstone. The image of Vinales crossing the line, standing high on the pegs with his arms aloft in victorious form gave the team impetus for more moments like this.

2017: The team welcomed a new line-up for 2017, the dynamic duo of Andrea Iannone and MotoGP rookie Alex Rins. It wasn’t smooth sailing for the squad, but with support from the test riders, Sylvain Guintoli and Takuya Tsuda, and the determination of the young riders, a couple of fourth place finishes were achieved.

2018: Suzuki grabbed an impressive nine podiums in the 2018 season with Rins becoming more confident in the class, taking his first MotoGP podium in Argentina. Iannone also put in some impressive rides – especially in Texas where he wore the Stetson with pride from the top step of the podium.

2019: Fast forward a year, and the Circuit of the Americas enjoyed another Suzuki success; this time it was Rins’ turn! This wasn’t to be the only triumph for the number 42 rider though, and in August of 2019 he took an emphatic and thrilling win at Silverstone. A photo of Rins taking the chequered flag, just fractions ahead of Marc Marquez, with the pair eyeing each other up to the finish line has become an absolute classic – not only in the Suzuki history books, but the MotoGP books too. A fast young Mallorcan talent named Joan Mir joined the ranks in 2019 too, showing flashes of excellence in several GPs.

2020: As the world reeled with the emerging pandemic and the MotoGP calendar was left in tatters, Suzuki pulled together and remained focused on racing goals – something which was evident in their month-long stay in Qatar at the start of the season, to protect staff and concentrate on the project. After a slightly rocky start to the season, things soon started to look up for the blue team. Joan Mir put together a sensational season, showing consistency and maturity throughout the year to be crowned MotoGP World Champion and put Suzuki back in the spotlight after 20 years. Coupled with Alex Rins’ impressive form which saw him finish third in the standings, this was truly the ‘comeback’ year for Suzuki – a feat made even more special as the factory celebrated 100 years since their founding, and 60 years in racing.

2021: Entering the year as reigning champions, and with the tried and tested line-up of Rins and Mir, the goal was once again to contend for podiums, wins, and the best championship positions possible. What the team lacked in luck that year, they made up for in tenacity. Rins had a tough year, although a second place at his beloved Silverstone gave a much-needed boost. Mir clocked six podiums through the year, and his consistency gained him third place in the standings at the close of the season.

2022: The final flag. It goes without saying that the highlight of the year for us was Rins’ heartfelt and thought-provoking final Suzuki victory in Valencia – a fantastic reward for the hard work and strong-will shown by the team. Although his nail-biting and ferocious run to the top step in Australia is a close contender. Mir also put in many brave and determined displays. We pulled together for every session of the season, and we stand strong together as we reach the final flag.

Alex Rins: “Well, I managed to achieve exactly what I wanted: another win with my team. This one, being at home and being our last together tastes extra special and it’s very emotional. Over the years Suzuki and I have celebrated some really beautiful victories, but also shared many beautiful moments as a family. I’ll miss everybody so much, and I’ll carry the lessons with me for the rest of my career.”

Joan Mir: “I’m happy to take a pretty solid finish in my final race with Suzuki, especially after a tough few weeks. Winning a title with this team is something I’ll keep in my heart forever, we’ve worked relentlessly during all our years together, but in 2020 everything just came together for us and it was simply fantastic. Thank you to the whole team for their help.”

Livio Suppo: “What more could we ask for? The only thing better would have been a double podium. But Alex showed, once again, how competitive he and our bike are. And Joan did a great job. My time with Suzuki has been short but very sweet. Working with an iconic brand, with superb people, and a great bike has been a big pleasure for me, and I think we can bow out with our heads high.”

Ken Kawauchi: “Today Alex did a very impressive job, getting the holeshot and leading the whole race, thank you to him for this final victory, and also to Joan for a nice sixth place. Finally, thank you also to all the staff for their work during all the years. We have been a very good group of people, and we always tried hard to get the best results.”

Shinichi Sahara: “Victory today in Valencia! What a great reward for the team. I’m very proud of the staff, the riders, the engineers in Japan – not only for today but for the whole season. We had a fighting spirit until the end, and we leave with a World Title and many victories and podiums.”

Suzuki has revealed two all-new models, with a new GSX-8S and V-Strom 800DE revealed today at Eicma in Milan, Italy.

• Both models use a brand-new 776cc, DOHC, parallel twin engine with 270° crank, designed to deliver punchy torque and a flexible character, while four valves per cylinder enable a free-revving nature.
• For strength and agility, the V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S use an all-new steel frame, with each using a bespoke subframe, swingarm, and suspension components for unique ergonomics and a tailored riding experience.
• As standard, each comes with a five-inch full-colour TFT dash, a three-mode traction control system, bi-drectional quickshifter, selectable power modes, and a slipper clutch.
• The V-Strom 800DE adds an off-road-focussed G (gravel) mode to its available traction control settings, and an ABS package that offers two modes – for greater or less intervention – and the ability to disengage rear ABS completely.

GSX-8S

The new GSX-8S is born to thrill, offering performance, technology, and style to those that want to work hard, and play harder. Through the combination of an all-new engine, agile chassis, ride-enhancing electronics, and an aggressive design, the GSX-8S is set to raise the middleweight naked bar.

Engine
Powering the all-new GSX-8S is a brand-new engine from the Hamamatsu marque, with a focus on performance befitting of a naked streetfighter. A 270° crank ensures a punchy torque delivery, helping fire the new GSX-8S from corner to corner, while a DOHC design, with four valves per cylinder, means a clean, free-revving nature all the way to the top end. Peak torque is 78Nm at 6800rpm while peak power is 82.9PS at 8500rpm.

A Suzuki Cross Balancer, an innovative new primary balancer design, reduces unwanted vibration, and helps ensure the engine’s compact nature, which in turn aids freedom of chassis design.

The exhaust system features a short new muffler design, barely rising up and out from the right side of the engine, enhances the bike’s compact look and feel and produces an intoxicating rumble.

Chassis
The GSX-8S’s streetfighter character continues with the ergonomics, with wide, tapered aluminium handlebars providing a sporty riding position and plenty of leverage to pitch the GSX-8S effortlessly into turns with speed and confidence.

That confidence also comes from a chassis that features upside down front forks and a rear shock from KYB, and a new aluminium swingarm with a unique shape, is designed to perform with the right amount of vertical, lateral, and torsional rigidity to further enhance the GSX-8S’s flickable nature but also deliver stability and greater ride comfort. Twin 310mm discs up front and a 240mm rear disc provide the stopping power.

These components all fit to a new frame engineered for direct handling characteristics, with a light – and painted – subframe helping keep weight low and aid the design of a sharp seat unit.

Electronics

From the seat – which is designed for comfort and performance – the view is of a five-inch, full-colour TFT screen showcasing a plethora of information including speed, gear, rev counter, clock, riding range, and dual trip computers.

It also shows the current settings the rider has chosen for the various advanced rider aids featured on the new GSX-8S, which includes a three-mode traction control system – which can be turned off – three selectable engine maps, and a bi-directional quickshifter for slick gear changes.

There’s also a ride-by-wire throttle, engineered for a natural feel, Suzuki’s Easy Start System, and a low rpm assist.

Style
The minimalist bodywork, wrapped around the slim new engine, is angular and futuristic. Other key elements of the bike’s style come from its bright, light blue wheels and subframe on two of the three available colour options; a pearl cosmic blue and pearl tech white. A matt and sparkle black option is also available.

Stacked hexagonal LED headlights and LED running lights all contribute to a slim, compact, and aggressive stance, while fresh graphics make for a contemporary look.

V-Strom 800DE

Born to explore, the V-Strom 800DE is an all-new adventure bike designed to allow riders to journey without limits. Boasting fully-adjustable suspension with 220mm of travel, a 21-inch front wheel, 220mm of ground clearance, and an electronics package with additional features geared around performance when the road ends, the V-Strom 800DE is the new master of adventure.

Engine
At the heart of the new V-Strom 800DE is Suzuki’s new parallel twin engine. The 776cc, DOHC powerplant produces 84.3PS peak power at 8500rpm, with 78Nm of peak torque at 6800rpm.

Designed to be slim and compact, to expand the possibilities for overall design flexibility, the long-stroke motor with four valves per cylinder produces smooth but potent torque throughout the low rpm, before going on to deliver free-revving performance through to the top end.

This performance is aided through the use of a 270° crankshaft design, which delivers high levels of torque and positive traction – extra-beneficial off-road – and a pleasing rumble to its exhaust note, ensuring it retains a character more akin to Suzuki’s famed V-twins. A Suzuki Cross Balancer, an innovative new primary balancer design, reduces unwanted vibration and helps achieve a compact and lightweight package that enhances the V-Strom 800DE’s agile handling.

Chassis
Wire spoked wheels come in the form of a 21-inch front and a 17-inch rear, shod with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres. Further boosting the new V-Strom’s ability to traverse rougher terrain with ease is 220mm of suspension travel, controlled by fully-adjustable hardware from Showa, and 220mm of ground clearance.

A tough steel frame provides the strength needed for negotiating tracks and trails and provides excellent straight-line stability and agile handling. The seat rails are engineered to withstand the impacts and pressures of riding on trails and feature a narrow profile that helps riders better control the bike with their legs.

Further helping riders control the new V-Strom 800DE on and off-road are wide, tapered, aluminium ‘bars and steel – though rubber-covered – footpegs. A long wheelbase aids stability, helped with an aluminium swingarm with a unique shape that enhances vertical, lateral, and torsional rigidity.

Electronics

A ride-by-wire throttle provides a natural feel, and synchronises with a range of electronic features that further enhance the V-Strom 800DE’s performance in a range of riding situations.

Like the bigger V-Strom 1050DE, it gets a traction control system with three on-road modes, which provide varying levels of intervention, plus the introduction of a G mode for use off-road. G mode allows more wheelspin, which is suppressed only enough to help prevent excessive slip, so power continues to be delivered to the rear wheel with minimum interruption. As a result, the rider gets the consistent power output they want. More experienced riders can also choose to disengage the traction control entirely for even more direct control.

The V-Strom 800DE also has two ABS settings, providing greater or lesser intervention, plus there is the ability to disengage the rear ABS for improved confidence and control off-road.

Gear changes are slick and uninterrupted thanks to a bi-directional quickshifter, meaning riders don’t need to trouble the clutch lever and can keep the throttle open on upshifts, while there is no requirement to blip it on downshifts.

Like all new Suzukis, there is the ever-handy low rpm assist – which raises the idle speed when pulling away or at slow speeds to reduce the risk of stalling – and Suzuki Easy Start System, which requires just one push of the starter button to fire the engine into life.

All of the advanced rider aids are managed via a simple rocker switch on the left handlebar, and displayed – alongside speed, odometer, rev counter, and more – on a five-inch, full-colour TFT dash.

Style
All of the above is wrapped in a style that is both quintessentially V-Strom and modern at the same time. Harking back to Suzuki’s DR Big and DR-Z heritage is the notable beak design and a hero colour scheme reminiscent of the firm’s off-road racing exploits of the past. Even the graphics are designed to resemble motocross number boards.

However, the beak is shorter, sharper, and sits higher, highlighting the space between front mudguard and headlight, created thanks to its tall stance and 220mm of suspension travel, and new vertically stacked hexagonal LED headlights are slim, light and compact.

The lines of the body work are sharp with flat surfaces to create a tough look. Bold accents are introduced through the use of moulded colour parts at the tip of the beak, alongside the radiator, and below the large, 20 litre fuel tank. Angled lines set into the knee grip area of the moulded panel below the tank lend yet another subtle accent.

A traditional yellow with dark blue accents and gold rims pays homage the most to Suzuki’s off-road pedigree, while the V-Strom 800DE will also be available in a matt mechanical grey with moulded yellow accents and black rims, and a glass sparkle black, that also comes with dark blue accents and gold wheels.

Availability
Both the V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S will be available in dealerships in the spring.

Suzuki has given its small capacity range a boost with the unveiling of three new 125cc scooters, with the new Address 125, Avenis 125, and Burgman Street 125EX revealed today at Intermot in Cologne, Germany.

All three are engineered to provide comfort, practicality, and outstanding urban performance while also delivering excellent levels of economy and efficiency, but they do so in their own way and with their own style, giving customers the option to enjoy their city, their way.

Engine 

The proven Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) engine sits at the heart of all three machines, though the Burgman Street 125EX uses the latest alpha iteration. The air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant currently powers over five million Suzukis worldwide, and is the forward-looking engine development concept from Suzuki, which results in an outstanding level of environmentally responsible performance, both in terms of low fuel consumption and low emissions. 

All three models achieve an impressive 148.67mpg figure and produce just 44g/km of CO2 emissions. At the same time, they still deliver powerful acceleration, with peak horsepower and maximum torque delivered at low rpm. 

For the Avenis 125 and Address 125 this is 8.7PS at 6,750rpm and 10Nm at 5,500rpm. The Burgman Street 125EX’s peak power of 8.6PS comes in at 6,500rpm, while peak torque remains the same.

The Burgman Street 125EX, equipped with the SEP-a engine, benefits from extra features which enhance the user experience while at the same time achieving a high levels of fuel economy and quiet operation, including Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS), a new idling stop system, and Suzuki’s new Silent Start System. 

Address 125 

Inspired by traditional scooter design, the Address 125 boasts classic city style, with curves and attractive body lines punctuated by chrome accents, completed with the classic rounded headlight, which is full LED, as are the position lights and integrated indicators. There’s also a tail-mounted cap, finished in chrome, designed to facilitate easy refuelling and ensure there is no risk of spillages on the floorboard or bags. 

The classic style also extends to the clocks, with an analogue speedometer sat atop a digital display. Wrapping around the speedometer is a handy eco indicator, which illuminates green when the Address 125 is being ridden in an economical manner, encouraging fuel efficient riding. Starting is easy with one push of the button enough to start the engine, thanks to Suzuki’s Easy Start System.

21.8 litres of underseat storage give plenty of storage space, plus an upfront storage pocket gives easy access to frequently used items, above which sits a USB charger for smartphones. Dual utility hooks provide extra security for transporting bags or other items. There are also two underseat hooks which can secure helmets when parked, which is made even simpler thanks to centre and side stands coming as standard. 

While parked a shutter concealing the ignition key hole provides additional security. To open, an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism is coded to the owner’s key. It also includes a seat opener that eliminates the need to remove the key to access the underseat utility compartment. 

With a ready-to-ride weight of 105kg it is easy to handle and highly manoeuvrable. The Address’ underbone frame is built using large-diameter, thin, round tubes, designed to minimise weight while maximising rigidity and also to provide excellent straight-line stability and positive cornering performance. 

Stopping power comes from a 190mm diameter disc brake in the front and a 120mm drum brake in the rear, while a combined braking system ensures a stable braking performance by distributing force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. 

The Address 125 rides on a short wheelbase that contributes to ease of manoeuvrability and works in conjunction with the light, slim design to offer easier, more agile handling. The slim design, low seat height and seat shape help make it easy to place both feet on the ground. 

Avenis 125 

Providing sporty city fun, the Avenis 125 aims to balance performance, style, and practicality; sharp, aggressive looks complement edgy, and dynamic lines, with an upswept tail section and stylish front cowling with floating meter visor. Lighting comes from an aggressive, stacked-lens body-mounted LED headlight, plus vertically-oriented LED position lights add a striking accent to the face. 

Distinctive graphics on the sides of the front cowl highlight the scooter’s aggressive attitude, and black metallic-finish emblems add a sophisticated touch. 

A sporty two-tone seat with attractive red stitching is firm yet comfortable, with ample padding and a richly textured surface that provides a secure grip when riding. In addition, its carefully crafted shape makes it easy for the rider to put both feet on the ground when stopped, along with cutaway footboards. 

A digital instrument panel for the Avenis 125 features a compact LCD screen with a clean and intuitive layout, and it also gets a handy eco indicator light to highlight fuel efficient operation by the rider. 

The chassis comprises an underbone frame that contributes to the Avenis 125’s fuel efficiency, excellent straight-line stability, and positive cornering performance. As well as a short wheelbase and semi-soft front suspension settings that provide a smooth and comfortable ride, along with a rear shock that is finely tuned to deliver solid road-holding performance, and agile handling.

Similar to the Address 125, Suzuki’s Combined Brake System supports well-balanced braking by distributing braking force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. Hardware features a 190mm diameter disc brake at the front and a 120mm drum brake at the rear. 

Practicality comes from 21.5 litres of underseat storage – with two helmet hooks – dual utility hooks for carrying extra items, an open upfront pocket and one shutable compartment housing a USB charging port. Like the Address 125, a shutter concealing the ignition key hole can be opened quickly, using an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. There’s also a standard fit centre stand a side stand. Riders can also lock the rear brake via a switch on the left lever, when parking. 

Burgman Street 125EX 

The Burgman Street 125EX is the smart city commuter, tailored to excel and brings a new level of elegant style and performance. It stands out with its fusion of class, style, performance, comfort, practicality, and convenience. 

Comfort is taken care of with a long, well-padded seat. Generously proportioned floorboards allow flexibility in foot positioning to maintain a comfortable riding position, while extended footboards up front let the rider extend their legs for greater comfort when cruising. 

The look of luxury and sophistication is created with elegant lines and a sense of volume from its striking bodywork to the red stitching on the seat, distinctive lighting and integrated turn signals, and attention to detail. 

A clean LCD dash displays information to the rider, including the eco indicator light, as well as an indicator for the Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS). 

Like the Avenis, there are 21.5 litres of underseat storage and two helmet hooks, plus two utility hooks for carrying extra items.  It also features a closable front compartment with a USB charging port and an additional easy access front storage compartment, next to which is the ignition key slot which can be covered using a magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. 

A longer wheelbase provides impeccable great straight line stability and gives a solid, planted feel and comfortable ride. A firmer suspension setup for the front suspension helps achieve a smooth ride quality, with the spring rate and operation of the front forks optimised for the front wheel weight distribution. Settings for both the forks and rear suspension are finely tuned to the tyres and wheels to achieve a fine balance of stability, road-holding performance, agile handling, and a comfortable ride, even when passing over uneven surfaces. 

With a longer wheelbase, strong braking performance is maintained thanks to a larger diameter drum brake, at 130mm. It also gets a combined brake system to modulate braking force between the front and rear wheels when using the left brake lever. 

Pricing and availability 

Both the Avenis 125 and Address 125 will be available in early 2023. The Burgman Street 125EX will arrive in Suzuki dealerships in the spring. Prices will be announced in due course.

New colour schemes are now available on Suzuki’s Hayabusa and both the SV650 and SV650X; legendary machines in the firm’s range for different reasons.

The third generation Hayabusa comes in a new, sleek, dark grey, offset by striking red accents. A revised white edition features bolder blue detailing, while an all-black variant provides the stealth option, save for the glinting chrome trim. 

As well as updates to the iconic hyperbike, the original middleweight naked, the SV650, gets a trio of updated colourways for 2023. 

Like the Hayabusa, an equally sleek grey and black model uses a stunning grey trellis frame, with a splash of colour from red wheels. Using a bronze frame and wheels are a dark blue model and a black version. 

The SV650X will come in a new metallic silver for 2023. 

All models are available in dealerships now, the Hayabusa with an RRP of £16,999, while the SV costs £6,999 and the SV650X £7,399.

The latest Hayabusa, launched last year, might adopt sharper styling but it remains unmistakably Hayabusa. Underneath the bodywork is a revised chassis and an updated version of the 1340cc inline four-cylinder that produces more cumulative power and torque than its predecessor. A comprehensive suite of electronics – the settings for which are displayed on a neat TFT dash nestled between analogue dials in homage to the original – includes multiple power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, lean angle-sensitive ABS, hill hod, 10 modes of traction control, three modes of launch control, and cruise control.

The SV650, first launched in 1997, encapsulates affordable motorcycling, equally adept at commuting as it is Sunday blasts. It uses the proven 645cc V-twin, with a user-friendly nature for newer riders but packing enough of a punch to excite experienced motorcyclists. 

Both bikes are included on Suzuki’s Buying Power campaign, available with 2.9% APR representative over three years, on both PCP or Hire Purchase and with no deposit required. 

Suzuki Insurance is giving away four free merchandise bundles worth £200 throughout August to any Suzuki owner that enters the competition via the website.

Suzuki Insurance will run one competition a week, with the entries closing for the fourth and final bundle on Friday 26 August.

Each bundle will offer different lines from the Suzuki merchandise collection, and include products such as watches, belts, caps, waterproof rucksacks, mugs, wallets, and neck buffs.

To enter, click here.

All Suzuki Insurance policies include new bike replacements for newly-registered bikes written off within six months, uninsured driver accident cover and unlimited accessory cover, and £100,000 of free legal cover as standard. Suzuki Insurance also covers provides cover for provisional and A2 licence holders, track day cover, personal accident and protective clothing cover.

Everyone wants to take better pictures of their bike. We spoke to photographer Jamie Morris, who boasts experience from the age of 12, about his top five tips on how to take better pictures of your bike, and this is what he came up with.

Jamie Morris grew up around bikes. They've become the main part of not only his career, but his life, too. From just eight-weeks-old, Jamie was going regularly to Brands Hatch, as his grandfather owned a shop and his parents rode motorbikes. His parents were also into racing, with a number of family members racing themselves, both bikes and sidecars, so he spent most of his childhood at race tracks.

Morris was into photography from a young age, along with motorsport. This meant at the age of 12 he could combine the two together, which is where his love of motorcycle photography came from. It helped a lot that his grandfather owned a shop at the track because he could practice taking photos at any of the racing events that came to town. Morris also went on to university and did a photography degree, giving him multiple opportunities in the outside world, along with club racing in his post-uni years.

Morris’ career has different branches. He started off in 2009, writing for a smaller magazine, this was the first year of his ‘proper career’, as he calls it. He currently works in the World Superbike paddock, taking images for a number of teams, and he’s been in British Superbikes for 13 seasons, having first started in 2010.

Thanks to his career and general motorcycle lifestyle, we thought it would be appropriate to ask him for his top five tips to help you to get the best or better photos of your bikes, and here’s what he came up with.

Keep an eye on the background 

You don’t want unwanted people or objects that are going to ruin your photo, but it can be easy to overlook it when focussing so much on the bike.

Angles are key
Low angles are good and dynamic, but they can cause reflections on certain parts of the bike, so make sure you keep yourself out of the photo.

Lighting
Use your smartphone camera’s ability to create a good photo. For example, if it's a darker setting, use the flash.

Clean your bike

Sounds obvious, but easily overlooked when concentrating on the other things. You don’t want scratches showing up on a photo, and you also don’t want dirty marks across the parts of the bike you are photographing.

Take lots of photos
In the digital age there’s no limit to the number you can take, so snap away. If you take a lot there's more of a chance of finding a nice one. You can then go back later and delete the ones you don’t like.

Suzuki is giving away £500 worth of free genuine accessories to anyone buying a V-Strom 1050XT or V-Strom 1050XT Tour from 1 July, as it sweetens its summer sales campaign. The campaign also sees both models – plus the Hayabusa, V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 650XT, SV650 and SV650X, GSX-S1000, and GSX-R1000R Phantom – available on a 2.9% APR Hire Purchase or PCP deal over three years with no deposit required.

The V-Strom 1050XT comes with cruise control, selectable engine maps, lean angle-sensitive ABS and traction control, plus linked brakes for slope and load-dependent control and hill hold assist.

Practicality comes as standard in the form of adjustable screen and height-adjustable seat, USB and 12V socket, centre stand, engine bars and hand guards.

The 1050XT Tour adds rugged aluminium top box and panniers with 112 litres of combined storage capacity.

However, as part of the offer, buyers can also customise or further tailor their V-Strom to their needs by adding extras such as heated grips, spotlights, off-road footpegs with depressible rubber inserts, and an aluminium sump guard.

Terms and Conditions:
PCP and HP Finance offer applies to purchases of a new 2022 (M2) Hayabusa, V-Strom 1050XT Tour, V-Strom 1050XT, V-Strom 650XT, V-Strom 650, SV650 and SV650X only from a participating Suzuki Dealership. The motorcycle must be purchased and registered between 01/04/2022 and 30/06/2022 to qualify. The GSX-R1000R Phantom and GSX-S1000 must be purchased and registered between 01/05/2022 and 30/06/2022 to qualify. Offer may be extended or withdrawn at any time. No minimum deposit required. Credit is subject to status, UK residents aged 18 and over. Suzuki Financial Services Ltd, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH. 

Suzuki has added a spring sweetener to its current Buying Power campaign, with the special edition GSX-R1000R Phantom and the GSX-S1000 both now available on the 2.9% low-rate finance offer, which is available over three years with no deposit required and on both PCP or Hire Purchase agreements.

The GSX-R and GSX-S offer runs until the end of May 2022, and is in addition to the existing campaign running until the end of June, which includes the third generation Hayabusa, the SV650 and SV650X café racer, the V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 650XT, plus the V-Strom 1050XT and V-Strom 1050XT Tour, which adds three-piece aluminium luggage to the V-Strom 1050XT’s already comprehensive standard specification.

The GSX-R1000R Phantom boasts a 202PS motor packing the same variable valve timing technology as the GSX-RR MotoGP machine and a comprehensive suite of electronics that includes lean-angle sensitive traction control and ABS, a bi-directional quickshifter, and launch control.

Launched last year, GSX-S1000 gets a sharper new look, stronger and broader spread of power and torque, plus quickshifter and auto-blipper, selectable engine maps, and traction control.

Suzuki’s Hayabusa leads a summer sales campaign that sees seven of the brand’s key models available on a 2.9%, low-rate finance offer, available over three years with no deposit required. Customers can choose from a PCP or Hire Purchase agreement.

The third generation Hayabusa headlines the offer, with its inline four-cylinder motor packing an abundance of power and creamy midrange thrust, plus the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) suite of electronics which includes traction control, launch control, cruise control, wheelie control, lean angle-sensitive ABS, selectable power modes, and a bi-directional quickshifter.

Joining the Hayabusa are six of Suzuki’s punchy V-twin models: the V-Strom 1050XT flagship adventure bike, which also comes with SIRS and includes cruise control, traction control, power modes, and linked brakes with lean angle-sensitive ABS, hill hold, load and slope-dependent control, and the V-Strom 1050XT Tour, which adds three-piece aluminium luggage to the 1050XT’s comprehensive standard specification.

The middleweight V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 650XT adventure bikes, SV650 naked and café racer-inspired SV650X are also included.

The offer runs from 1 April to 30 June 2022.

Back in October last year the UK press launch of the new GSX-S1000GT took place in Scotland, with each member of the media spending two days in the saddle, ensuring they got the fullest impression of the bike possible. Now, with spring around the corner and people making their riding plans for the year, here’s some riding inspiration if you’re planning a trip to the land of whisky, haggis, and shortbread.

Scotland is one of the best places on the planet to ride a motorcycle. Fact. We all love a European tour (or further afield, in some cases), but the fact remains that some of the best roads and scenery in the world are on the British isles.

For the launch of the GSX-S1000GT we plotted a route taking some of the best roads – some well known, some less so – and biggest scenery, from the mountains in the west, over the Cairngorms.

Our route begins in Nairn, and is steady away, picking up the A96 to Inverness and then the A9 out the top of the city, including a short stretch of dual carriageway work (flick on the cruise control for a spell and steal glances of the Beauly Firth on your left and the open water of Moray Firth on your right).

At a roundabout join the A835, signposted Ullapool, and this is where the fun starts. After a few more miles of standard A-road stuff, it transforms into a rollercoaster, twisting and turning its way through stunning scenery; in our case trees with orange, gold, and red leaves set against mountainous terrain as we pass through in the autumn. It descends to the shore level of Loch Garve, and through the town itself, giving you a chance to back off and enjoy the views, which are just a snapshot of the things to come.

As you exit the town a junction comes up pretty quickly, at which you want to divert off and onto the A832. The twistier nature of the A835 now makes way for swooping, sweeping turns through trees, initially, before opening up as you join the shore of Loch a' Chuilinn.

And it’s stunning. This whole section, from here all the way to Achnasheen (where you take a left at the roundabout onto the A890) is all about soaking up the views: wide, desolate landscapes, with lochs and bodies of water strewn out in front of high, imposing hills and mountains, the tops of which aren’t always visible through the cloud.

Before, you’re dancing through the gears, up and down the box using slick quickshifter, jumping on and off the brakes, going corner to corner, point to point. But now, now you chuck the bike in top gear, and waft along, simply marvelling at what looks like something from Lord of the Rings.

Cruise onwards, but eventually the land rises up, and you’re plunged back into tree-lined twisties. They start shallow, but be aware, because soon the road tightens, and it’s back to flicking side to side, and for us that means using the GT’s wide ‘bars to lever them into corners.

It’s thirsty work, and, in the rain especially, mentally taxing. Luckily, there’s a café on the road into Lochcarron: the Albatross café of the Lochcarron golf club. But no one is on the course when we arrive.

Once you’ve had your fill of coffee and cake, head back the way you came, and then turn right, following signs for Kyle of Lochalsh, Skye, and the A87. This is the naggeriest section of the route, and for many of the next few miles, as the road tracks the opposite shore of Loch Carron compared to the one you just had coffee on, it descends to single track, with narrow tunnels through the rocks. However, it’s offset with views of the water.

Eventually the usual two-lane carriageway is restored, and it’s back to carving through sweeping bends. The road climbs through the trees, only to descend shortly after, gifting you views of the Isle of Skye in the distance.

On this occasion we’re skipping the picturesque island, and at the bottom of the hill turn left on the A87, following signs for Fort William.

You’re on here for the next 30 miles now, and it’s arguably the most impressive part of the route with the most dramatic scenery; the road follows the water’s edge in places, and in others snakes through valleys.

But, as good as the views are, the riding is better. The surface is incredible, with grip in abundance, even in the wet. Which is good, as the corners come thick and fast. Straights are not a thing here.

Out of the corner of your eye you catch a waterfall, a mountain you didn’t spot before, or a castle. But there’s no time to gaze for long, because a chevron board is fast approaching, warning you of the next set of corners. It’s relentless, but in a good way.

On our ride no one wants to stop, but after 20 or so miles we elect to drop into a fuel station; there’s some gas left in the tank, but they’re scarce in this part of the world, so we opt for a splash and dash.

10 miles further on and the A87 diverts south, towards Fort William, but continue on straight and join the A887. The lunch stop is on the shore of Loch Ness, and at Invermoriston head south on the A82 to Fort Augustus. Just as you’re passing out the other side, on your left, is the Highland Club, luxury apartments set in an 18th century abbey with stunning gardens. Follow the road round the Boathouse restaurant, set on the shore at the very bottom of the famous body of water.

Once suitably fed and watered rejoin the A82 south, and strap in for the final leg of the day’s ride. From here the route’s simple: the A82 to Fort William, but the riding is anything but, and you are again confronted with non-stop turns, the road snaking up and down, winding its way south. It’s also more of the same on the scenery front, as you pass through trees one minute, and run down the side of lochs the next. It’s incredible.

32 miles later you arrive at Fort William, with plenty of choices and a wide selection of hotels, B&Bs, restaurants and bars (though we recommend the Black Isle Bar).

The second day’s ride only take in 100 or so miles, but it also includes a brief stop at Dalwhinnie distillery, for research purposes, obviously, before tackling some of the Cairngorms as the route returns north to Nairn.

To start the day, rejoin the A82 and head north, but only as far as Spean Bridge. Here the road becomes the A86 and heads east. If day one was about amazing scenery with great roads thrown in, today is more about the road. Though the views aren’t too shabby either.

There’s no easing yourself into this section, the one corner links into the next, meaning you need to be scanning ahead to ensure your exit from one doesn’t compromise your entry into the next. And watch out, there are a few that tighten just as you expect them to open up.

But the rewards are worth the effort, and there’s a tangible sense of accomplishment as the road finally straightens out, and as it does so just as you arrive at yet another loch. As we cut through on our ride the sun hasn’t long been up, and is glinting beautifully off the still surface.

After passing Loch Laggan the corners return, and it’s back to attack mode, but make sure to catch the right hand turning towards Dalwhinnie, using the A889. Even if whisky isn’t your thing, the tour is fascinating.

Tour complete, taster kit stuffed into the GT’s panniers (along with anything else that took your fancy) retrace your steps back to the A86, and turn right towards Inverness and Newtonmore.

Ignore the A9, though, this route takes you under the main road north, and onto the lesser known B970.

It loosely runs parallel to the A9, but instead of heading straight, or straight-ish, it gives you something to do, and after passing a couple of small towns, it’s back to the good stuff.

On our ride we stopped for coffee and another slice of cake on the shore of Loch Insh – aptly but confusingly named the Boathouse – which is a slight diversion when you get to Kincraig, then continue on the main route to Aviemore.

After the ski resort join the A95, and follow it toward Speybridge, but pull off and follow signs to Grantown-on-Spey, picking up the Old Military Road: the A939.

From here, it’s riding nirvana all the way back to Nairn. The road is superbly surfaced with twists and turns, climbs and descents through trees and over heathland. It’s not as out-and-out dramatic as the views further west, but it is equally impressive in its own way and riding is arguably better.

Watch out at a fork in the road, where the A939 bears left, but other than just keep going, and savour every mile.

Eventually, for us, the ride comes to an end, with media guests having to transfer for flights and trains. But with more time you can add miles by heading south from Fort William in the morning and tackling Glencoe – a route press guests traversed on a 2013 Burgman launch – before heading west to Pitlochry and picking the Old Military Road further south.

But there are many great roads in the region, and now is the best time to plan this year’s getaway.

Suzuki GB and Bennetts insurance have teamed up to host an action-packed Busa Bonanza, which will take place on 26 April at Elvington Airfield and give owners the chance to ride their own Hayabusa flat-out in a run-what-you-brung-style event, as well as the opportunity to test ride the new, third generation machine.

Open to all Hayabusa owners – road legal or otherwise – attendees will be able to enjoy an unlimited number of runs and will be provided with printouts recording their speed at ½ mile and one-mile intervals. A complementary photography service will also provide free images of the day.

Those attendees will also be able to test ride the new Hayabusa, launched last year, with Suzuki bringing along a fleet of six demo machines. Available on a first come, first served basis, loanees will be required to provide their licence details and a DVLA check code, or National Insurance number.

A number of modified Hayabusa drag racers will be on display and stun crowds with top-speed demo runs, while British Superbike racers Christian Iddon and Danny Kent will swap their GSX-R1000s for Hayabusas for the day. Suzuki will also display its wider product range, including the newly-launched GSX-S1000GT.

Gates open at 10:30am with standard entry £5. Runway use is free for Bennetts Bike Social members, or £10 for an unlimited number of runs for non-members.

Elvington Airfield can be found near Elvington, York, YO41 4XS.

For further information or queries, email enquiries@bikesocial.co.uk.

Suzuki has confirmed it will return to the Adventure Bike Rider festival, with the 2022 event taking place on 24-26 June 2022 at Ragley Hall in Alcester.

The Japanese firm will again be bringing a comprehensive fleet of test ride machines, including its adventure flagship: the V-Strom 1050XT. With a suite of electronics including lean angle-sensitive ABS and traction control, selectable engine maps, cruise control, hill hold, and linked brakes that provide clever slope and load-dependent control systems, it will be available to demo alongside the base model V-Strom 1050, and the V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 650XT middleweight adventure machines.

Those bikes will also form part of an expansive static display, while for the three days members of the Suzuki team will be on hand to answer any questions and provide information and details on its range of models and any current offers and promotions.

Suzuki has launched a new Performance accessory pack for its Hayabusa hypersport machine, which comes with an RRP of £2,599, representing a saving of £1,112 over the cost of the individual items.

The standout accessory in the kit is a pair of titanium Akrapovic silencers, which save a total of 4kg and boost power by 2kW, as well as enhancing the soundtrack. Capped with a carbon fibre tip and featuring a carbon fibre heat shield, the silencers are finished with a classy, laser-etched Akrapovic and Hayabusa logos.

Billet aluminium brake and clutch levers replace the original items, with extra style coming from a colour-coded pillion seat cowl, an accessory seat with Hayabusa logo and red stitching, plus a tank pad also adorned with a Hayabusa logo in a choice of gold or red, to suit the bike’s colour.

The Performance accessory pack can be fitted at the time of purchase, meaning it can also be incorporated into any finance deal, spreading the cost monthly, and benefits from the same three-year-warranty.

With an RRP of £16,499, the third generation Hayabusa uses a heavily redesigned engine – including new pistons, conrods, crankshaft, and camshaft – specifically aimed at producing enhanced performance in the lower to mid rev ranges, making it the fastest-launching Hayabusa yet with more cumulative torque than its predecessor.

It gets Suzuki’s most advanced suite of electronics ever, with 10 lean angle-sensitive traction control modes, lean angle-sensitive ABS, three power modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control and a speed limiter, and three stages of launch control, all controlled via easy-to-use switchgear and managed through a neat colour TFT display, nestled between two analogue dials reminiscent of the original Hayabusa’s clocks.

Design cues from the original also extend to the bodywork, which is sharper and more angular but nonetheless immediately recognisable as Hayabusa.