Motorcycle specifications Suzuki600 GSX-R 1999 Curve boost

when it comes to efficiency and racing character, the GSX-R is a resolutely formidable tool. Except that... All the time in the revs, it's exhilarating on the racetrack, but it can be tiring on the road. Introduced in '97, this scaled-down clone of the 750 GSX-R only offered its watts when approaching 10,000 rpm. So, for its new vintage, the little Gixer has given its innards a thorough overhaul.

lighter valves controlled by more aggressive valve timing, reduced friction on moving partsair intake, larger airbox, new exhaust (the same as on the 750), new carburetors: these are just some of the changes to the 600 GSX-R. But it doesn't look like it from the outside. It's still the 600 version of the 7 and a half, from which it takes its silhouette and chassis.
On paper, this means 4 more horsepower for the full version, but above all a fuller engine. On the 98 version, you can really feel the improvement from 7,000 rpm. Beyond this revs, the 4-cylinder, which excites your right hand at low revs, unleashes the herd of nags. The old Gex, on the other hand, is still wondering how it's going to set its pack free. A striking difference, given that only 1 year separates them. Where it hurts for the 97 is when the lap times speak. The new model pulverizes the times of its predecessor. When the difference is calculated in hundredths, you can still appeal; but when it's 2 digits to the tenths, you've got to give in. This performance is due not only to the engine's new lease of life, but also to the shorter gear ratio - an extra tooth at the crown is no mean feat. This has also smoothed out the transmission, which no longer hiccups when rolling gently between 2 cars in 3rd or 4th gear.
As for dynamics, there's no obvious change. The chassis remains the same. A cocktail of efficiency, precision and lightness that now offers a little more comfort. In addition to its improved engine behavior, the 600 GSX-R adopts a higher bubble and, to optimize the front axle to suit, the fork gains hydraulic compression adjustment. There is a slight loss of "feel" when braking, as the discs have been made 0.5 mm thicker. On the other hand, endurance is remarkable.

no change in philosophy for Suzuki's virulent little machine. The rider sits sporty, very sporty, and, even if the power curves are nicer, don't expect to evolve on the fat of torque; in any case, a 600 pistarde is not made for that. If the GSX-R is only really at ease between vibrators, its 98 evolution has gained in savoir-vivre, especially its mill.
In the supersport category, the Gex ranks among the best machines. Its main threat is the highly versatile Kawasaki ZX-6R. Neither will give the other a free ride.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)