If you like the idea of a GSX-S1000 but they?re too fast, a Suzuki GSX-S950 might be just the ticket. Based on the GSX-S1000, the 950 is Suzuki?s answer to that rarely asked question; ?can I ride a big bike with an A2 license"? Now you can.

They say the Suzuki GSX-S950 is ?based on? the GSX-S1000, but really, it is a GSX-S1000. It?s got the same engine with the same amount of CCs (1000, despite the deceiving name); the same frame; the same swingarm; the same shock. It?s the same bike, made a bit slower and a bit cheaper.

How much slower" Well in standard trim, it makes 95bhp (rather than 152, like the 1000). But it can be restricted to 35kW (45bhp), so you can ride one on your A2 license. Handy, if that?s what you want to do. There?s still a fair amount of midrange though (for a sub-100bhp, inline-four), with 92Nm of peak torque. And it?s bound to be mega smooth.
It comes with a slip and assist clutch, three levels of traction control and the same ride-by-wire throttle as the 1000.

But how much cheaper is it" Well they haven?t told us yet, so your guess is as good as mine. They have told us though, that to make it cheaper, they?ve given the 950 some budget 43mm KYB forks, and Tokico front brake calipers.

If you can wait ?till August, you can have one of these puppies whether you?ve got an A2 license or not, in either black, blue, or red and white. Unfortunately, they all come with a slightly unsightly logo on the rad? shrouds. It?s ...