In 2015, almost every other manufacturer announced all-new or significantly upgraded supersport machines with game changing performance or features. Suzuki only added a new color to the GSX-R1000 range but that does not mean the bike is hopelessly outdated. It’s a fine bike that rides good and if you don’t care about acronyms and gadgets, the GSX-R is still one of the best packages out there.
2015 Suzuki GSX-R1000
The 2015 model year Suzuki GSX-R1000 retails for $13,899, which is very reasonable considering that you are getting a good quality motorbike and all other 1,000cc machines cost at least a couple of hundred dollars more. There is a wide range of colors including blue, black, grey, silver, and red and that was almost the whole list of the upgrades Suzuki did for the new model year.
But the good old Gixxer is still a great supersport bike, a machine built to perform. It is lightweight, fast and durable. This bike’s elegant combination of simple functions and a lightweight body makes it easy for the rider to torque around corners.
Just minor updates for 2015
It is driven by a powerful, 999cc, 4 stroke engine, which is designed in such a way that it has an 11 percent longer bore and stroke compared to previous models. It has 4 cylinders with liquid cooling, featuring Suzuki’s dual throttle valve fuel injection system and an unparalleled power to weight ratio. The engine is lighter compared to previous models, weighing only about 60kg. Based on the road tests, the engine can provide a power of 186hp at 9,500 RPM, and it does a maximum speed of 288km/h.
As far as the equipment is concerned, the GSX1000 is a class apart. Headlights are sharp and sensible, and mirrors are reasonable- not too small and not too big. It ensures comfortable riding with soft gel seats, so even long rides are a pleasure. There is also an under-seat storage compartment for tool boxes- which means you are well-equipped for long tours.
Classic Gixxer dash
Suzuki GSX-R1000 Motorcycle 1:12 Scale Model by Maisto
For all the strengths mentioned, Japanese engineers are yet to find a solution to some of the inherent issues in the model. The GSX-R1000 is capable of being at the forefront in races, but some of its newest competitors are more powerful and faster. It does have some slight engine gearbox issues, front brake problems and cosmetic issues. Riders have reported that fresh brake fluid takes a good amount of time to settle in and refresh the brakes, so it is not a good idea to use fresh fluid before racing. Additionally, the GSX-R1000 is generally robust, but the titanium coating flakes off at the front end after being ridden really hard.
The ABS is the only electronic aid system
This bike’s only electronically aided component is it ABS, which is a little bit shy in 2015. There are no other electronic aides like the ones on newer rivals like the Kawasaki H2R, Yamaha YZF-R1 or the BMW S1000RR. This decision of Suzuki leave you with some decisions to make. We have yet to see if Suzuki will be pressured into ramping up the electronic components on feature models. Looking at Suzuki’s sales numbers lately, this is just the matter of time. Until then, don’t forget: it may lack sophisticated electronic systems, and isn’t as race-focussed as the S1000R or ZX-10R but it won’t be far behind in terms of lap times and is much more forgiving on the road.
