2009 Suzuki GSX-R 1000

Recently Suzuki offered its first look of the 2009 GSX-R1000 at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas; man did they deliver.  The GSX-R 1000 has been completely overhauled to directly compete against its chief rival, Honda. The new GSX-R1000 is lighter, faster and, more aerodynamic.

Packing in the power, Suzuki is introduced its most compact GSX-R engine yet. Changes to the 999cc liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine include a 1.7mm-shorter stroke, which should increase performance at higher a rpm. Additionally, the downdraft intake manifolds have been reduced by 10mm which should yield additional power. The Suzuki Ram Air Direct air box has been redesigned to reduce weight and incorporate larger air intakes in the nosecone of the front fairing.

The combustion chamber has been redesigned, increasing the bore by 1.1mm to give the GSX-R a boost in low to mid-range power. Suzuki also increased the size of the intake valve to 31mm and the exhaust valve to 25mm. Furthermore, the DOHC engine received a new cam, as Suzuki shortened up the intake camshaft.

Resulting from a more compact power plant Suzuki brought in the wheelbase by 10mm to increase the bikes cornering ability. Additionally, Suzuki replaced last year's hydraulic clutch and utilized a cable-actuated system. The 2009 GSXR 1000 features dual floating 310mm discs with radial-mount calipers. The two piece calipers have been replaced in favor of monoblock forged aluminum-alloy front brake calipers that are 205 grams lighter than the bolt-ons.

The '09 GSX-R 1000 retains the twin-spar cradle frame with five cast aluminum-alloy sections. The swingarm uses three castings and is arched to accommodate dual exhaust. Over all the chassis has not be highly modified however the swingarm has been stretched to 33mm; yet the wheelbase was reduced by 10mm and an 11-lb drop in weight.