Suzuki Motor Corporation has today revealed details of its 2012 flagship Superbike – the GSX-R1000, offering enhanced capability thanks to technical innovations that provide heightened engine and chassis performance as well as weight-loss for the new model.
Announced in unison across the world today, the 2012 GSX-R1000 retains its original styling but with a host of revisions all implemented to make this the very best GSX-R1000 ever produced.
Shaving two kilograms from its kerb weight, the new GSX-R features a plethora of updates, incorporating Brembo’s highly acclaimed Monoblock calipers for incredible braking and engine revisions that provide even more mid-range power.
Engine technical highlights include the adoption of MotoGP derived finite-element-analysis and fatigue-analysis techniques, which allow for newly developed pistons that are now 11% lighter and aid acceleration and overall performance. This combined with a finer material for engine tappets shaves a further 2.5 grams off per tappet, resulting in optimized valve lift with a revised exhaust cam profile for a slight reduction in valve overlap. Compression ratio also increases from 12.8:1 to 12.9:1.
Along with the utilisation of the Brembo Monoblock calipers, the 2012 GSX-R1000 features further chassis enhancements that offer greater manoeuvrability thanks to a reduction in weight for the front tyre and axle, offering superior unsprung weight advantages. This weight saving is amplified with the return to a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system, further enhanced with a new lightweight titanium silencer also.
With the current GSX-R1000 a proven track performer, narrowly missing out in this year’s British Superbike Championship by just 0.006 seconds, and current holder of the Brands Hatch Superbike lap record, the 2012 GSX-R1000, with its detailed update looks set to continue Suzuki’s front of the pack performance.
The 2012 GSX-R1000 will make its European debut on the Suzuki stand at the Eicma International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan on 8th November 2011.
UK fans can see the 2012 GSX-R1000 at Motorcycle Live, stand G220, hall 4.