The GSX-R1000 has a proven record of winning 6 straight years as AMA Superbike Champion. So how would the Suzuki engineers improve on such a dominate motorcycle? Without saying the same phrase over and over for the last 6 years of lighter, faster, and better handling well we have to say it anyway. The new GSX-R1000 K9 is lighter with a claimed weight of 203kg (448 lbs.).
The faster portion comes in with an engine that is 60mm shorter from front to rear. Over-square with a bore of 74.5mm and a stroke of 57.3mm. Compression ratio increased from 12.5 to 12.8:1. Suzuki claims increased tuning potential.Valves are larger and titanium, the pistons are forged and the conrods are shot-peened. The Drive Mode selector is now located on the left handlebar and offers three power delivery maps. A slipper clutch keeps everything in line while slowing down.
The better handling comes from improved styling of the radiator and new oil cooler also allow for the use of narrower bodywork for reduced drag. The new
styling also offers improved wind deflection to limit turbulence over the rider as well as adjustable footpegs. A longer swingarm is also added to help harness all this power on the race track. Front and rear suspension is fully adjustable with rebound, high and low speed compression and spring preload.
Is all of this enough to compete against the other manufactures 2009 bikes? We will have to wait and see what happens in upcoming AMA and World Superbike racing to see what manufacture has brought the best technology to the table this year.
Specifications
| Chassis: | |
|---|---|
| Color | Black/Matte Black, Blue/White, Red/Black |
| Brakes Front | Radial mount, 4-piston calipers, 310 mm disc, twin |
| Brakes Rear | 1-piston caliper, 220 mm disc |
| Curb Weight | 203kg (448 lbs.) |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.5 L (4.6 US gal) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.1 in. (130mm) |
| Overall Length | 2045 mm (80.5 in.) |
| Overall Width | 710 mm (28.0 in.) |
| Seat Height | 810 mm (31.9 in.) |
| Suspension Front | Inverted telescopic, coil spring, spring preload fully adjustable, rebound and compression damping force fully adjustable |
| Suspension Rear | Link type, oil damped, coil spring, spring preload fully adjustable, rebound and compression damping force fully adjustable |
| Tires Front | 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless |
| Tires Rear | 190/50ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless |
| Transmission | 6-speed, constant mesh |
| Wheelbase | 1405mm (55.3 in.) |
| Engine: | |
| Engine | 999cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
| Bore Stroke | 74.5 mm x 57.3 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.8 : 1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition (Transistorized) |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Starter | Electric |
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