Image gallery: 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000/R
Suzuki released a couple of completely new motorcycles for the 2017 model year replacing their previous performance flagship Gixxer with the GSX-R1000A and the new top model, the GSX-R1000R. The motorcycles feature completely new engines, frame, suspension, instrumentation, styling as well as IMU-equipped electronics. The 999.8cc Suzuki engine is all-new featuring lighter, bigger pistons, bigger valves and smaller changes to make the inline-4 more compact. Suzuki adds their MotoGP-based (switches post 10,000rpm, approximately) variable valve timing system that allows the 202PS engine to offer serious mid-range torque also. This engine is hung off a lighter, narrower new twin-spar frame that sits on a slightly longer wheelbase. But Suzuki has managed to increase the length of the double-braced swingarm while reducing the front axle-engine distance for more feel and more mechanical traction.
Also new are 10mm larger Brembo brakes with Monobloc calipers. ABS is standard and so is cornering ABS. Showa supplies fully adjustable suspension for both the GSX-R1000 models, but the R gets the top-of-the-line Balance Free units front and rear. Finally, the IMU-equipped Suzuki has a 10-step traction control system, launch control (R only) and riding modes.
The MotoGP-inspired design of the 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R wears the blue and fluoro-green colours really well
The new 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R frame only has a marginally longer wheelbase. But the swingarm grows 40mm while the distance from axle to engine has reduced
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R really is tiny. The skinny tail sits on a subframe that is 40 per cent lighter than before. In fact the Euro IV end can is amongst the largest volumes on the bike!
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A looks similar to the A model and both come in four colours in India. But the giveaway is the appearance of the front fork and the missing daytime LEDs on the A
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R uses an LCD screen but the notable thing is that the bars are not set too low and this makes it an easy motorcycle to ride
The pillion seat on the 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R is tiny. That isn't unexpected, though
Both motorcycles come with a cassette-style gearbox for track and race use. But the 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R model receives a standard up and down quick shifter.
The Showa BFF, or Balance Free Forks, are a thing of beauty. They clearly have the ability to make the chassis feel responsive and taut and yet, they feel so, so plush. Fully adjustable, naturally.
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A rear brake is a Nissin calliper on a Brembo rotor
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A rear suspension is an adjustable Showa monoshock. It is very, very good but not as good as the Balance Free Cushion Lite, also from Showa, also adjustable, on the R model
Though we suspect that the black finish will eventually be worn through, the 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A and R get all-black pegs, peg-frame and heel plates that look and feel great!
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A exhaust is a massive can thanks to it meeting Euro IV norms
The 999.8cc inline four on the 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A is brand-new and shared with the R model. Makes 202PS now and comes with variable valve timing and titanium valves!
The left switch cluster includes this new button that you use to change settings and work the LCD screen. It isn't the easiest system to use we have tested but it's an easy one to be sure
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A uses an LED headlamp that allows Suzuki to shrink the headlight down to this little jewel-like thing. This, in turn, allows massive air intakes. See the black swishes above the intakes, the R model has LEDs there
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R is priced at Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom), Rs 3 lakh more than GSX-R1000A model.
On the move, the The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R feels smooth and easy and the power builds up nicely before you feel a small step up in ferocity past 10,000rpm
The two 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000A and GSX-R1000R are identical in every way but for the suspension, LED DRLs and the quickshiter that come on the R model only. The A is priced at Rs 19 lakh, while the R is Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom)
The The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R feels almost plush over the small bumps at the racetrack but the suspension isn't soft and handles the big weight transfer from the engine or the brakes very well
The 2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R is so compact and comfortable (relatively speaking) that is is a disarmingly friendly motorcycle to ride
More stories from OVERDRIVE on the new Suzuki GSX-R1000/R
Suzuki GSX-R1000 track ride
Technical details of the new Suzuki GSX-R1000/R explained
Images by Ishaan Bhataiya