Looking at the GSX-S950 and the GSX-S1000, they look almost identical.

Apart from the color of the fork, gray on the 950 and gold on the 1000, without any adjustment for the first, I also note that the Brembo calipers are replaced by Tokico.

Some details change like the rear structure of the frame and the LED turn signals of the 1000 which disappear on the 950 in favor of more classic bulb and filament models.

The price is also adapted with a difference of 2,350 € between the GSX-S1000 (13,149 €) and the GSX-S950 (10,799 €).

Both machines are powered by the same 999cc (73.4 x 59 mm) liquid-cooled, DOHC, in-line 4-cylinder engine.

The 1000 develops 152 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 106 Nm at 9,250 rpm, while the 950 has only 95 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm. 

Proceeding in the same way as Kawasaki with its Z900, Suzuki also markets this model for A2 license holders.

How? 'Or' What ?

By limiting it to 35 kW.

A short trip to the dealer and the deal is in the bag!

Clamping is electronic via the ECM (Engine Control Module).

A few computer manipulations are enough.

But then, why not with the GSX-S1000?

Because the legislation is clear: it is forbidden to restrain a motorcycle whose original power is greater than 70 kW.

The GSX-S1000 displaying 112 kW, it does not fall into the category of clampable motorcycles.

In “deflated” mode, the GSX-S950 A2 then displays 47.5 horsepower (35 kW) at 6,100 rpm and 76 Nm at 3,250 rpm.

Known melody

For this test, we have a "liberated" version with 95 horsepower.

To the Metallic Triton Blue color are added a GP graphic kit, yellow rim stripes, a seat cowl and a specific license plate holder.

As mentioned above, this 950 looks exactly like the GSX-S1000.

On the other hand, the color of the backlight of the LCD screen changes: it goes from blue to white.

As on the 1000, the information in the drop-down menu is difficult to read during the day.

The "Mode" button on the left stalk allows you to adjust only the intensity of the traction control (from 0 to 3).

The choice of three maps is non-existent on this 950. To finish with the driving assistance, the driver of this Suzuki can still count on classic ABS (without cornering control) and on an anti-slipper clutch (SCAS),

without forgetting the Easy Start System and the Low RPM Assist dear to Suzuki.

The GSX-S950 maintains a saddle height of 810 mm. 

The engine climbs in the revs with a frank and constant thrust.

At 5,000 rpm, you already reach the legal speed limit on the highway.

The 4-cylinder then continues to take turns to run out of steam from 8,000 rpm.

It is indisputable that this engine, initially developing 152 horsepower, was cleverly restrained by Suzuki.

Its torque is available at low and medium revs and gives very good sensations to the pilot.

It is unfailingly flexible by accepting to resume at 1,000 rpm even in sixth gear!

Young bikers will therefore easily become familiar with this large cube. 

Braking is reassuring with a coherent Tokico/Nissin system with very responsive ABS.

The suspensions are correct as long as the road does not deform.

In other words, the GSX-S950 benefits from correct comfort for this type of machine.

Too bad the practical aspects are non-existent (no USB socket)… 

This "restricted" Suzuki GSX-S950 - no pun intended - has nothing to be ashamed of when faced with the "all-powerful" version.

It is pleasant to drive with its engine with a strong character.

For young people – and not so young – A2 license, it is an interesting option that will allow you to keep the same motorcycle once the A license is in your pocket.

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The Suzuki GSX-S950 in a few figures:

  • Engine: 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, water-cooled

  • Displacement: 999cc

  • Maximum power: 95 hp (70kW) at 7,800 rpm;

    A2 - 47 hp (35 kW) at 6,100 rpm

  • Maximum torque: 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm;

    A2 - 76 Nm at 3,250 rpm

  • Gearbox: 6 gears

  • Final drive: by chain

  • Frame: aluminum perimeter

  • Front suspension: 43 mm non-adjustable KYB inverted fork, travel.

    120mm

  • Rear suspension: Pro-link with adjustable KYB shock, travel.

    130mm

  • Front brake: twin 310mm discs, Tokico radial 4-piston monobloc caliper, ABS

  • Rear brake: single 220mm disc, Nissin 2-piston caliper, ABS

  • Saddle height: 810 mm

  • Weight (TPF): 214 kg

  • Tank: 19 liters

  • Price including VAT: €10,799

  • Automotive

  • Motorbike

  • Suzuki