Overall Ratings ★★★★★
Ride: | ★★★★★ |
Look: | ★★★★★ |
Value for money: | ★★★★★ |
In a Nutshell
The king of the superbikes seems to be back
The new GSX-R1000 was worth the wait. The Japanese manufacturer did a great job blending a powerful engine with a well-balanced frame. The power output brings the model again in line with the top superbikes of the moment. The GSX-R1000R is a proper race bike that packs 199HP and has all the fancy modern electronics. The engine features the VVT technology that Suzuki borrowed from MotoGP and seems to be the lightest liter gixxer so far.
What We Liked
The propulsion unit used for the new GSX-R is completely redesigned. The Variable Valve Train (VVT) technology comes from Suzuki’s MotoGP bike. The VVT system gives the engine a boost at peak power. With the help of ball bearings, it uses centrifugal force to change the orientation of the intake camshaft. Therefore the timing is modified at certain RPMs. The result is increased engine revs without losing the low and mid-range power. The new technology is a mechanical system due to MotoGP rules but proven its reliability. The new engines also benefit from a Ride-by-Wire throttle and adjustable power output.
The new frame is a twin-spar style designed with the help of the MotoGP experience. It is developed to be more compact and 10% lighter and comes with a high level of grip when cornering. The swingarm is 40mm longer to increase the stability and add to the superior racetrack experience. The Suzuki GSX-R1000-R feels more like a GSX-R750 regarding maneuverability, and the best part of it is the immense amount of usable power.
The electronics are the same as the leading superbikes. Besides the mandatory ABS, the IMU comes with 10 level traction control, and for the R model, you get launch control and a quick bidirectional shifter.
The GSX-R1000R in the MotoGP colors is probably the best looking superbike of the moment. It’s the kind of bike that you get addicted to. The air intake and the VVT produce a specific sound that makes you want to pull the gas even when you are stopped at the lights. Every ride is like a treatment for your speed addiction.
What We Disliked
The ergonomics of the GSX-R1000R are mainly intended for track use, but you can adapt your riding style for street use. The usual back aches and sour wrists will remind you to relax every 60 miles. Other than that, this bike is suitable for everyday riding. When riding on the track, the brake lines will tend to fade after a few laps. A set of braided steel lines will solve the problem allowing you to enjoy the braking power of the Brembo discs and calipers.
The R model comes with Showa Balance Free Forks BFF for front and Balance Free Cushion for rear while the standard model is equipped with Showa Big Piston. Equipped with the BFF suspension, the gixxer delivers a plush ride on asphalt and track. The Suzuki GSX-R1000R is not a favorite when it comes to everyday commuting. The wind protection is pretty good but, the Japanese saddles are renowned for their lack of comfort.
The build quality is not the best money can buy. You can see where Suzuki tried to cut expenses. There are a few bits and bolts that might look cheap but, the overall package will make you forget about these small details. The dash is an LCD screen that gives you all the useful information even the battery charging level. In the MotoGP trim, the Gixxer is an eye magnet.
Raw Data
The GSX-R1000 – 14.699$ MSRP
The GSX-R1000R – 17.199$MSRP
The GSX-R1000 is the most affordable superbike on the market.
Depending on the riding style you can get around 150 km from a full tank.
The R version comes fitted with Showa BFF suspension, autoblipper and lightweight battery.
Year introduced | 2017 |
Max power (horsepower, KW) | 199 Bhp |
Max torque (NM, lb-ft) | 87 ft-lb |
Top speed (km/h, mph) | Over 180 mph |
Engine (CC, CI) | 999.8 cc |
Frame | Twin-spar aluminum fram |
Weight (KG, Lbs.) | 203 Kg |
Seat Height (CM, IN”) | 825 mm |
Front Brake | Brembo 4-piston, Disc, twin, ABS-equipped |
Rear Brake | Nissin, 1-piston, Disc single, ABS-equipped |
Front Tire Size | 120/70 R17 |
Rear Tire Size | 190/55 R17 |
Front suspension | Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped |
Rear suspension | Link type, single shock, coil spring, oil damped |
Fuel Tank (L, Gal) | 16 L (4.2 US gal) |
Avg. fuel consumption (L/100 KM, MPG) | – |
Safety | ABS, Traction control, Riding modes, |
Price (EUR, USD) | Starting from: 14.699 $ |