New GSX-R1000 on the catwalk in Paris
Added on Sunday, September 28th, 2008 by Carole Nash Editor | No Comments
New GSX-R1000 on the catwalk in Paris
Suzuki unveiled an all-new 2009 spec GSX-R1000 K9 model, alongside the new Gladius 650 and Intruder 1500 models, to the motorcycle press in Paris recently.
Boasting an all-new compact engine, shorter wheelbase and new styling, the new GSX-R1000 aims to compete in the hotly-contested Supersport class.
With significant changes in the engine department, the new GSX-R features a more over-square bore and stroke (74.5mm x 57.3mm). Larger, titanium valves, a higher compression ratio (now 12.8:1 as opposed to the K8’s 12.5:1), and 12 hole fuel injectors aim to deliver a finer fuel mist for more complete combustion. All this with a power-plant that is 59mm shorter from front to rear.
Suzuki claim the all-new chassis makes the GSX-R1000 more agile than ever before. They’ve deleivered a shorter, twin-spar cast cradle frame. This is mated to a longer, arched swing-arm made of three castings. The changesmean the wheelbase is shortened by 10mm.
The chassis is equipped with Showa’s new Big Piston Forks (BPF) with endurance race proven design. The forks are combined with a new rear shock absorber that features high and low-speed compression damping to offer reduced weight and superb feedback and response. The new lightweight, race-proven mono-block forged radial calipers, mated to fully-floating 310mm discs offer plenty of stopping power.
The Gixer has the unique Suzuki Advanced Exhaust System, featuring low-slung MotoGP inspired titanium exhausts. Styling includes a lighter, sculptured fuel tank, an on-board lap timer and revised Suzuki Drive Mode Selector controls.
Also unveiled in Paris was Suzuki’s all-new Gladius 650. A new naked middleweight model featuring Suzuki’s 650cc V-Twin engine. Suzuki say the Gladius boasts unique styling in a user-friendly package and looks set to replace the ageing SV650 model. It will also be a rival to the Kawasaki Versys, Honda Hornet and Monster 696 in the novice-friendly middleweight motorcycle class.
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