Updated :  18 July 2007
Information - Specifications and History

This contains all the information I know about the latest Suzuki GSX-R 1000 (K7 or 2007).   I've finally added this motorbike to my high performance bikes list because it offers something different to the rest of other manufacturers.  Amongst the usual selling points of superb handling, class leading performance it offers switchable ECU maps.  Suzuki says its a new design and by the looks of things in the right direction.  There are also a few special editions to be released around the world, the latest being the Isle of Man TT special edition.

I've been waiting for this feature to appear for a while now because one of the key problems of high performance motorbikes is that too much power and you can't control it.  This makes for a painful riding experiencing in traffic manoeuvring etc... while a high performance engine is just not appropriate.  Furthermore in conditions deteriorate in the wet or cold it becomes quite dangerous.

Up to now the manufacturers have taken this into consideration and so most motorcycles offer low power in low revs and fuel efficiency and so forth.  (Much like the Honda's VTEC system.)  However with the event of EFI on motorcycles it doesn't have to be this way anymore.  With switchable ECU fuel mapping you can have it all in one bike.  Switch to low performance for easy handling in traffic, fuel economy and when riding with cruisers, medium for faster rides with the 600cc and full power for the track and Hayabusa owners.

The engine produces a claimed 136Kw from 999cc production motorbike sure torque is claimed a mere 120Nm but the bike weighs in at 172Kgs so its that's amazing in 2007 no matter who you are.  The age of ever less weight equals greater performance and handling is over I think.  There comes a point where MORE weight equals even greater performance and handling.  And about time some one was brave enough to do it.

Switchable fuel mapping is a fantastic development (for production motorcycles) those new to riding can purchase the leading edge bikes and not have to buy another bike because all they need to do is change the ECU setting when they're ready.  Mind you, that could mean less sales - but unlikely since we all want the latest and greatest.

The next thing I was surprised at was the inclusion of dual exhaust pipes!  Yay, balanced design and presence comes back to the sports bike world. Furthermore they aren't simple round cylinders. I will always say that 2 pipes are better than one in terms of looks.  Just like big rear tyres just look better than skinny ones.  I'm glad that they didn't do the under seat or under tail design, that's just so turn of the century.

In terms of physical presence its nice that they have made it bigger.  As you probably know I  always say that the range topper should have more road presence than mid-range range models.  Most of all I think many older folk who can afford to buy these new won't look like they are ridding 250cc bike or less - seriously though the smaller the bike the less comfortable they are and those of use who carry a little more weight or of mere average size will be more comfortable. Since I haven't ridden it yet it all looks like a pretty good choice to me!  Any offers of a ride?

(More details over the next few weeks.)

Specifications for the Suzuki GSX-R1000