Motorcycle specifications SuzukiGSX-R 1000 2008 Technology at the service of the Queen

Dreaded and feared, the GSX-R 1000 never tires of trouncing its rivals on the podium. As is customary, the odd-numbered years mark the revival of this big hypersport. It's an opportunity for Suzuki to further improve its spearhead, knock out the other 1000 sportbikes and extend its reign.

Rather than being a complete novelty, the 2007 version of the GSX-R 1000 is a major evolution of the 2005 model. There are no spectacular plastic changes, just subtle modifications that preserve the bike's identity while modernizing certain parts. On its raptor face, the intake ducts (with more discreet edges than before) have been slightly repositioned, still with a view to optimizing air intake, but without giving in to the fashion for central forced air intakes (Suzuki doesn't play like everyone else; to preserve its identity?). The headlight is wiser again, with a certain hayabusa profile. The fashion aspect returns to the night-light, with its sleek, star-like design. Stylistically, most of the machine is inspired by the latest 600 and 750 GSX-R models: the fairing sides, the rear shell, the 2-part fuel tank eaten up by the airbox, everything is a clever blend of the 2006 GSX-R family with the sparkle of a sharp pencil. Nothing surprising at first glance, except when the rear view reveals the 2 side exhausts.

Did you like the much-discussed triangular muffler on the new-generation Gex 1000? With the 2007, Suzuki doubles down. Designer's fantasy or technical necessity? Nostalgic fans will remember the GSX-R 1100, also equipped with 2 exhausts. The main reason is the need to let the engine breathe, despite the castrating Euro 3 standards. With more exhaust volume (there's also a plenum behind the engine), the GSX-R's boiler develops a few more horsepower (albeit with a tad less torque) without worrying about the anti-pollution passage. What's more, with a pot on each side, the Gex is better balanced. This is essential for a machine that's a leader in competition, and that's going to have to take on a little extra weight.
It used to be the lightest... but that's about to change. The 1000 K7 gains 6 kilos this year. At 172 kg dry weight, it has nothing to be ashamed of, but it will have to be wary of the new Yamaha R1, less powerful but packed with electronics and variable air intake.

Although... Does it really frighten anyone, with the technological debauchery housed in its innards?
The engine, already a little jewel full of wattage and spirit, has evolved significantly. New titanium valves, red zone increased to 13,700 rpm (+200 rpm), new injectors with 12 spray orifices, and above all, a new electronic management system... sorry, 3 new electronic engine management systems. It's new, it comes from racing, and it allows the rider to choose his mapping according to riding conditions. A button on the handlebars lets you select your injection mapping while riding. Terrific!
The engine adapts to your mood, the bike to you. The footpegs can be adjusted to several positions, and the suspension features slow and fast compression settings in addition to the usual ones. The steering damper is new, electronically controlled, so it's active only when needed. The 2007 Gex also features a hydraulic clutch with radial pump.

And how much horsepower does this new GSX-R 1000 deliver? At MP, we were banking on 182 hp. At Hammamatsu, we're giving it 185 static horsepower - which should enable the Gex to produce almost as much dynamic power as a ZZR 1400... Simply frightening!
This debauchery of watts eclipses the relative drop in maximum torque (- 0.3 mkg) obtained at 1,000 rpm higher than on the 2005 model. Virtually negligible at this level of performance.
With this new ground-to-ground missile, it might be time for Suzuki to make all-inclusive packages compulsory: a Gex-superbike pack = a Suzuki GSX-R 1000 + a riding course + very large c......s + an overdose of "même pas peur". An idea worth exploring, as the 1000's potential becomes more and more exceptional with each evolution.

M.B - manufacturer's photos