16 Years of the GSX-R1000
With 2017 bringing a brand spanking new GSX-R1000 (and GSX-R1000R), we look back on 16 years of this iconic litre bike.
Production Year: 2001 – Power: 160BHP – Engine Capacity: 988cc – Weight: 170kg
When the GSX-R1000 launched in 2001, it caused quite a stir. Not only did it weigh less than the Yamaha R1 and Honda CBR929RR Fireblade, it also produced more power than both of its rivals. Based upon the already established GSX-R750, the GSX-R1000 featured lighter engine components and a longer stroke but maintained the narrow format of the 750’s engine. Capable of a top speed of 179mph and accelerating to 100kph in 3 seconds, Suzuki were able to challenge the supremacy of Yamaha’s R1 in the 1000cc superbike stakes. Find parts for this model here.
2002 saw minor cosmetic changes as well as modifications to the fuel pump, clutch, front axle and the manual fast idle was replaced with a Secondary Throttle Valve (STV) servo.
Production Year: 2003 – Power: 162BHP – Engine Capacity: 988cc – Weight: 168kg
Lighter, faster and more refined that the K1 model, the 2003 GSX-R1000 made use of an upgraded 32-bit ECU, lighter titanium exhaust and 4 pot radial calipers with new discs. The iconic vertically mounted headlights allowed the ram air intakes to be placed 20mm nearer to the motorcycle’s centre line, allowing for maximum ram air pressure and torque output. The seat height was lowered, as well as the overall height of the bike and the frame was made even more rigid. This all added up to a lighter motorcycle with better stopping power and improved maneuverability over the 2001 model. Find parts for this model here.
Once again, changes were minor in 2004. The main difference being the Suzuki badge located on the tank.
Production Year: 2005 – Power: 162.1BHP – Engine Capacity: 999cc – Weight: 166kg
2005 saw a major engine redesign with a new cylinder head, titanium intake and exhaust valves, lighter pistons and a gearbox with closer gear ratios for improved acceleration. The frame was also redesigned, reducing the overall length of the bike and resulting in lower pegs, a shorter tank and a lower seat height to improve the already impressive handling. The bodywork was also redesigned to be more aerodynamic, with indicators integrated into the mirrors and tail section in an effort to reduce drag. Widely regarded as the best GSX-R1000 of all time, the K5 won the Superbike World Championship, AMA Superbike Championship and the World Endurance Championship. Find parts for this model here.
The 2006 model featured minor cosmetic changes.
Production Year: 2007 – Power: 185BHP – Engine Capacity: 999cc – Weight: 172.4kg
Due to new emission regulations (boo!) and a new exhaust system, the 2007 Gixxer 1000 had gained some weight. Although heavier than the last iteration, the 2007 GSX-R1000 had several new features including an improved engine management system, allowing the rider to choose between three different engine settings depending on their personal preference and riding conditions. A larger, trapezoidal radiator improved cooling capacity by 10%. Brake discs were improved with 12 floating mounts instead of 8, for improved heat dissipation. Suzuki offset the weight gain by improving power output and increasing the redline to 12,000rpm, allowing a top speed of 186mph. Find parts for this model here.
The 2008 model featured minor cosmetic changes.
Production Year: 2009 – Power: 191BHP – Engine Capacity: 999cc – Weight: 203kg
For the first time, Suzuki offered the GSX-R1000 with a short stroke engine, the idea being to give race teams an easier job of tuning the bike compared to the previous long stroke model. Although the 2009 Gixxer was heavier and had a lower top speed, it was more comfortable than it’s predecessors and generally a bit friendlier for road riding. The upper fairing was wider to allow for better wind protection, and three way adjustable footpegs allowed customisation to suit riders of all heights. Find parts for this model here.
The 2010 and 2011 models featured minor cosmetic changes. A special 25th Anniversary Edition was also released, featuring a special colour scheme, laser-processed pinstripes on the wheels, serial plate on the yoke (limited to 1,000 units) and some minor cosmetic changes.
Production Year: 2012 – Power: 182BHP – Engine Capacity: 999cc – Weight: 203kg
Featuring Showa forks, monoshock and Brembo radial calipers as standard, the 2012 GSX-R1000 is a more refined motorcycle than the first offering Suzuki made all the way back in 2001. This iteration of the GSX-R might not be as race orientated or technologically advanced as some of it’s competition, but it is still packed with features that make it a great option for the track as well as the street. The Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) allows for smoother deceleration into corners and low to mid range power has been improved with a reworked ECU and a new exhaust featuring a shorter titanium end can and new stainless steel header pipe giving a much more linear torque curve. As always, Suzuki have produced a superbike with predictable handling, and useable levels of power, despite failing to be the fastest litre bike in the pack. Find parts for this model here.
Production Year: 2017 – Power: 199BHP – Engine Capacity: 1000cc – Weight: 203kg
It has been a long time since the last overhaul of the GSX-R1000, and the latest 2017 model will be released April, with the GSX-R1000R available from May. But can Suzuki bring something new to the 1000cc superbike market like they did in 2001? Let us know what you think!
