In the year 2001, Suzuki introduced to the world a new breed of superbike to replace the old GSX-R1100. Code name K1. Since then, we have plenty of Ks and eventually, the K series ended with K8. In late 2016, Suzuki reintroduce a new breed of superbike at EICMA to the public which inherited some MotoGP DNA and the code name, L7.
For a layman, it is very difficult to tell which is which; so let’s just stick to the common name, Suzuki GSX-R1000. Unlike the previous Ks, the new Suzuki GSX-R1000 comes with a completely new designed engine. Before this, the last engine update is on the 2009 model. This new engine has a higher RPM limit and no balance shaft to quell vibration and it comes with a mechanical variable valve timing which was used by Suzuki in MotoGP for a decade.
In the electronics department, this model is the first to get traction control with the Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU) which measures the yaw, roll and pitch. It also comes with a seamless up and down quick shift that works well with the close-ratio 6-speed gearbox. To make it a friendlier ride, it is equipped with Suzuki Low RPM Assist where the engine will run a few hundred RPM even with your hands off the throttle.
In the powerhouse, the Suzuki GSX-R1000 comes with an inline four-cylinder liquid-cooled, 999 cc DOHC engine that can produce 202 Bhp under the seat with 118 Nm of torque. As mentioned earlier, it inherited the Suzuki Racing Variable Valve Timing (SR-VVT) system which they have been using in MotoGP for a decade. Not only that, it comes with Suzuki Advance Exhaust System but I guess it doesn’t matter as most Malaysian will change to a louder aftermarket exhaust. It also comes with a Brembo 6-speed at the front and a Nissin calliper on the rear brake.
What it is missing is the Motion Track Brake System, Bi-Directional quick shifter and launch control which was made available on its sibling, the GSX-R1000R. You read it correctly, an extra R at the end. This extra R model also comes with Showa Balance Free Front (BFF) fork and a Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock which comes standard on the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.
Now comes to the design, in my personal opinion, it looks better than its predecessor but it still missing something. It comes with a single headlamp with two cold air intakes on its side (a direct opposite of most bikes which come with 2 measures on its side) and a small little beak to improve its aerodynamics. It is running on full LED lighting for the front and rear. Some tiny improvement I noticed is that the two indicator light is on all the time and will only off when you turn on the indicator.
I must say that this Suzuki GSX-R1000 is a very friendly and forgiving bike. Riding it is easy, especially with the Low RPM Assist, and best for city riding especially in heavy traffic. The power delivery is extremely smooth and the seamless gear change provides real comfort to ride the bike.
You will know what I mean when you have a long empty highway with very little weekday traffic. Yes, I am referring to Lekas highway. I am not going to boast about the top speed as any one-litre superbike can easily reach 299 kph. The zero to one hundred timing is very similar to all superbike. The only difference is the skill of the man twisting the throttle.
It handles very well with the excellent Showa adjustable upside-down fork and a super grippy Bridgestone Battlax RS11.
My verdict, great bike!
