An all-new version of Suzuki's GSX-R1000 has been launched in South Africa with, according to the bike-maker, more power, cleaner exhaust, nimbler handling and a more responsive ride.
The 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is the latest in a long line of the brand's supersport motorcycles. When the original was unleashed more than a decade ago it was a design believed to be well ahead of its time.
Suzuki says an integrated design approach rather than working on elements in isolation involved a dedicated engineering team for engine, chassis, electronics and aerodynamics specialists working together.
"The result is a single, uniformly developed and engineered design that pushes the boundaries at every level," Suzuki says.
The bike's looks are distinctive, Suzuki added, with unadorned styling focused on clean aerodynamics for less turbulence and drag.
"Close attention to rider comfort has resulted in a carefully shaped seat and adjustable foot pegs and a tail section cover is included for solo rides or track days," spokesman said, "and although the sculpted fuel tank is lighter its capacity is still 17.5 litres."
There's also a new multi-reflector headlight with stacked high and low-beam halogen bulbs centred between position lights that have layered lenses with a blue hue on the inside lens. The front and rear indicators employ clear covers over amber bulbs.
The instrument array includes a silver-ringed analogue rev counter and LCD speedometer. Selectable LCD readouts are provided for the odometer, two trip distance meters, reserve trip meter and clock.
There's also a coolant temperature/oil pressure warning indicator, gear position indicator and a lap timer/stopwatch but the main feature on the GSX-R1000 is a drive mode selector that gives a push-button choice of three performance settings.
At the heart of the bike is a new 999 cc, four-cylinder engine that is lighter and 60mm shorter from front to rear. It delivers more power and torque and is more over-square than before with a bore/stroke of 74.5/57.3mm compared to the previous motor's 73.4/59mm. This, Suzuki says, enhances the engine's overall tuning potential.
The compression ratio has been raised from 12.8:1 to 12.5:1.
The engine has larger-diameter titanium valves, forged pistons and shot-peened con rods and cylinders and is fed through 12-hole injectors that produce a finer fuel mist to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
SHORTER WHEELBASE
A large, efficient, trapezoidal radiator has been developed from units fitted to the factory race bikes. It matches the trapezoidal engine-oil cooler and helps to reduce drag.
The more compact engine has allowed the bike's wheelbase to be 10mm shorter but the swing arm is 33mm longer for racetrack performance and the bike rides on 17" cast-alloy rims fitted with Z-rated 120/70 front and 190/50 rear rubber.
The front brakes use two 310mm discs and four-pot callipers, the rear a single 220mm disc.
"The new Suzuki GSX-R1000 is not only the latest in a long line of legendary supersports motorcycles," Suzuki says, "but also a trendsetter that raises the bar in its class.
"Its cutting-edge technology offers real-world benefits in terms of riding enjoyment and ultimate performance while addressing environmental concerns."
Price: R155 650.