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New Suzuki Gladius Unveiled

31st October 2008

Ahead of its arrival in Australia next year, Suzuki has taken the wraps off the Gladius, an all-new model offering a unique combination of performance, style and comfort in a fun package suitable for a broad range of riders.

In the Gladius, a sporty V-Twin engine is coupled with Suzuki's advanced technology, a slimline chassis and distinctive looks.

"The Gladius really typifies Suzuki's Way of Life approach," said Perry Morison, General Manager Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia.

"Whereas many motorcycles are geared purely towards outright performance, the Suzuki Gladius is the ideal model for riders looking for a fun motorcycle they can ride and enjoy everyday.

"With sporty yet easy to manage performance, head-turning looks and a comfortable ride all rolled into a value-packed motorcycle, Suzuki is looking forward to releasing the Gladius in Australia."

Developed from the powerplant of the popular SV650, the Gladius features a sporty and reliable, 645cc, fuel-injected, DOHC, V-Twin engine, delivering a broad powerband with impressive low-range torque.

A selection of Suzuki's race-bred technologies, including a powerful engine management system, enhances the Gladius' performance and reduces maintenance requirements and emissions.

Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) coating of the aluminium-alloy cylinders reduces friction and improves heat transfer and durability, while each cylinder includes twin Iridium spark plugs to produce a stronger spark.

The advanced Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and acceleration, and cleaner running.

Integrated into each downdraft 39mm throttle body, Suzuki's automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) system improves cold starting in a range of conditions.

Giving the Gladius a quieter rumble, a pair of 25.5mm exhaust valves lead into a stylish, unswept muffler, while a catalyst is built into the exhaust chamber to reduce emissions.

Gear ratios in the six-speed transmission have been selected to ensure the Gladius is well-suited to city riding while maintaining sporty performance.

Helping maintain a stable engine temperature in a range of conditions, the Suzuki features a slim and efficient radiator.

The Gladius is a motorcycle ready to stand out from the pack, with its distinctive styling.

Curved bodywork is highlighted by engine cover detailing and a buffed, stainless steel muffler cover.

Bold colour combinations between the bodywork and coloured steel tubing on the compact, trellis frame enhance the fresh, European-inspired look.

Beneath the bodywork, the Gladius is designed for maximum comfort and practicality - delivering well-balanced and sporty handling, and low-speed manoeuvrability for everyday city use.

A two-tone seat with a low 785mm height is well padded and has rounded edges and bolstered rear edges for additional rider support, while a 20mm higher seat is available as an option to suit taller riders.

Combining with the slim chassis, positioning of the tubular-shaped handlebars and footpegs in relation to the upright riding position ensures maximum rider comfort.

Providing a smooth and comfortable ride with predictable handling, 41mm-stanchion-tube front forks and a progressive-link rear suspension are both spring-preload adjustable.

Dual, floating 290mm front disc brakes and a 240mm rear disc brake give the Gladius ample stopping power.

Dunlop Qualifier sport radial tyres are fitted to stylish five-spoke, 17-inch, cast aluminium alloy wheels.

The 14.5 litre fuel tank has been sculpted to preserve the compact shape and slim lines of the Gladius.

A carefully-shaped multi-reflector headlight with high and low beam sets the tone for the Gladius' distinctive look, and is joined by a position light, front and rear clear-lens turn indicators and a combination tail and brake light.

In addition to an analogue tachometer and LCD speedometer, instrumentation includes digital dual trip meters, odometer, LCD digital clock, gear-position indicator and a two-step fuel warning light.

Further arrival, colour scheme and pricing details for the new Suzuki Gladius will be announced closer to its 2009 Australian arrival.

SUZUKI SFV650K9 (Gladius)

Specifications

ENGINE TYPE
4-stroke, 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC

BORE X STROKE
81.0mm x 62.6mm

DISPLACEMENT
645cc

COMPRESSION RATIO
11.5:1

FUEL SYSTEM
SDTV fuel injection

IGNITION
Electronic ignition (transistorised)

STARTER SYSTEM
Electric

LUBRICATION SYSTEM
Wet sump

TRANSMISSION
6-speed constant mesh