For the last several years, Suzuki’s GSX-R1000 has dominated the prestigious literbike class, winning numerous magazine ‘shootout’ tests and generally outshining the competition. Beating the big Gixxer, especially the 2005-2006 model, is a tough proposition. Just ask Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Honda, who have for the last few years designed their literbikes with their crosshairs set firmly on the dominant GSX-R.
How did they do? In this writer’s opinion, Kawasaki came closest with their latest ZX-10R, and the 2006 CBR1000RR is also an awesome bike (I haven’t ridden the R1, so I can’t comment). Any one of these bikes would make a buyer happy, but the bottom line is that the carry-over GSX-R1000 (the ’05 model continued on into ’06 basically unchanged) still beat out its newer rivals in numerous comparison tests.
The 2006 GSX-R1000 continues to be a great racing platform, as well. Between Mat Mladin and Ben Spies, this machine has been piloted to 15 AMA Superbike wins in 16 races. Only Honda’s Jake Zemke has kept Suzuki from a perfect season, so far.
With 2007 nearly upon us, we’re likely to see an official announcement (with photos and preliminary specifications) of an all-new, 2007 GSX-R1000 in a few weeks. Despite the fact that the current crop of literbikes already feature power levels that redefine the word excessive, it is likely the new GSX-R1000 will feature a significant increase in power over the current model – possibly with the help of some advanced technology, like variable intake tract geometry and/or variable valve timing/lift. Of course, the new motor should be housed in a completely redesigned chassis, with the latest suspension and brake components, and wrapped with styling similar to that of the 2006 GSXR-600 and 750.
Can Suzuki top what many journalists consider to be the best literbike ever? I’m sure their engineers have been slaving over just that problem for quite some time already, and we can’t wait to see the finished product.
