I've narrowed down my next bike purchase to either the BMW S1000R or Suzuki GSXS1000.

I've been set on the BMW since it was released but I'm starting to have some reservations.

I'm actually starting to think the GSXS1000 might be better than the S1000R. The differences are seemingly minor details at this point.

Sure, the S1000R is technically the better bike, but is it 46% better? The S1000R is 29% more expensive for the base model and 46% more expensive for the premium model. I've never actually seen a base at the dealer, so generally speaking, the BMW is nearly 50% more money than the Suzuki.

Is it 50% more bike, I'm starting to think not.

I'm guessing that mostly everyone on this forum is biased towards the Suzuki. However, I'm hoping that you all can explain why you would choose the Suzuki over the BMW.

Reading some BMW forum I bought GSXS for some reason:

- More expensive when you buy it
- More espensive at service (but the first is free)
- S1000R have some trouble and BMW service can't solve ( engine off when you are running at idle, water consumption and other minor)
- Too much electronics (is equal more future trouble)
-In my town service isn't good.

To change my bike I spent 2000€ for gsxs but bmw ask me 5000€ for S1000R

That's all

Price played a big part in my decision to buy the GSXS over the S1000R, $16k vs $25k (I wasn't going to get the base model).

I'd spent plenty of time riding the S1000R, as a mate leaves his in my parents shed, so it was readily available to ride.
I liked almost everything about the bike, the electronics were lovely, the throttle was super smooth (if lacking a bit down low). The brakes are amazing and it's got heaps of power up top.

For every day riding though, it's got a tiny amount of steering lock, which makes U turns and tight maneuvering a pain.

The build quality isn't what I would have expected for a bike of that price...for example, the brake fluid reservoir wobbles around in its mount.

I'd also heard lots of stories about the electronic suspension failing and other electronic niggles.

I was also concerned about the cost involved in repairing electronics once the bike is out of warranty.

The closest service centre was also 600km away, and I didn't want to have to travel for services.

In saying all that, its a great bike to ride, heaps of fun and very easy to ride.... It just didn't do it for me.

The GSXS fit the bill really well for me. It was a good price, I found it more comfortable, plenty of power, handles really well, can get it serviced in town, and its easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

like you I was set on the BMW when it was first released. I had a test ride and placed a deposit. During a long wait for the bike to arrive I had a second test ride. I did this because I had some reservations but still ordered on the salesman's assurance that I could cancel if I chose to. The reason I decided to cancel my order for the BMW was mostly because of the limited steering lock.. I believe the chasis is the same as the BMW S1000RR.. and the poor back brake, even though it is a Brembo item. The bars are also a long reach for me at 5'8" and I felt the riding position was too sports bike like, not really an all day riding position. The GSX-S made feel right at home from the off and although it isn't as fast as the S1000R there isn't that much real world difference and think of all the goodies you could buy with the price difference! You need to test ride both, we all have different preferences , but for my part I'm pleased I chose the GSX-S ps if you do big mileages go for the F the wind protection difference really is noticable.

Like Marty has said, the factor in not choosing the bmw for me came down to purchase price ($10,000 difference) and servicing costs.
One of the things i love about the zuk is a basic service is $250 compared to upwards of $600 for marque brands like the bmw.

I have nowhere near the ability to ride the gsxs to its potential, and very happy with what it has to offer!

If I was going to get a BMW it would be the K1300R but I just dont feel old enough yet. Or rich enough.

I also considered the S1000R but after coming off a 2013 Ducati Diavel I felt that less is more. The high service costs coupled with the dealer being 250kms away as well as the reliability issues led me back to the Suzuki. The overall reliability as well as reduced service costs and the convenience of the dealer located close by were the contributing factors for me. I also had serious concerns about the adaptive suspension. The cruise control and heated grips would be the bonus features for myself. Hope this helps and good luck with your decision. Keep us updated.


Rod

Fortunately I have some time to think about it as winter is fast approaching for me. I think I'm leaning more towards the Suzuki at this point for pretty much all of the same reasons you guys pointed out. Suzuki dealer is a 5min walk from my home, BMW dealer is a 90min drive. So that's nice.

I've driven both and they are my top two favorites. But to answer the question - No, S1000R isn't worth the extra money. I've decided for the Suzuki next season, after the winter.

The BMW S1000R was not in my shortlist , even without testride
On the Belgium motorshow in January I tried it, and it felt to much as a S1000RR where only part of the fairings were taken of. Riding position was not what I wanted, even the looks of the bike didn't blow me away. There is also a big difference in price and BMW reputation is far behind any Japanese brand.

And as stated by others, the specs and power of my Suzy are even to much for me.
I definitly can say that this bike is one of the best choises I've made for the use on the road and my (lack of) talents
Is the Suzuki perfect? Of course not, but the best compromise for me