Suzuki wheels out the new Gixxer

By JIM DUNCAN

Suzuki’s all-new GSX-R1000 is the star of an impressive new 2003 model range revealed by the motorcycle giant not long ago at the Intermot International Motorcycle Show in Germany and more recently at the Sydney Motor Show.

Underlining its global position as the world's premier manufacturer of high performance street bikes, Suzuki also showed its entirely-new SV1000 and SV1000S models for 2003, together with upgraded SV650 series and new Burgman 250 scooter.

"Suzuki promised a surprise at Intermot and the all-new GSX-R1000 is certainly worthy of that anticipation… To have significantly improved what is already the world's best sports motorcycle is a remarkable achievement," General Manager, Motorcycles, for Suzuki Australia, Perry Morison, said.

"Add to that the launch of the all-new SV1000 series, plus the other model upgrades, and there’s no doubting Suzuki’s commitment to on-going excellence in design and innovation."

Suzuki GSX-R1000 – Setting The New Benchmark

Voted the 2001-2002 International Bike of the Year, the Suzuki GSX-R1000 has also won countless racing championships worldwide, and looks set to continue with the launch of the 2003 model.

The new Suzuki GSX-R1000’s 988cc four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine features several revised internal components complemented by an upgraded digital engine control module (ECM), increasing output to a stunning 164ps.

New lightweight dual double-barrel throttle bodies incorporate the revolutionary Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system, while the Suzuki Exhaust Tuning (SET) butterfly valve increases torque and throttle response.

Reducing the GSX-R1000’s overall weight is a new titanium exhaust system, while the enlarged muffler has titanium core pipes and end plate, and an aluminium-alloy cover, which is lighter than an all-titanium equivalent.

The Suzuki’s all-new black twin-spar aluminium-alloy frame is about two kilograms lighter than the previous model, with the main frame spar on each side comprising of three internal reinforcing ribs.

To assist with the GSX-R1000’s additional power, the Suzuki has race-proven radial-mount, four-piston front brake calipers that produce stronger braking performance, and are similar to those used on the new GSV-R MotoGP and GSX-R World Superbike racebikes.

A new engine rpm indicator light is featured in the comprehensive instrument console, that can be programmed to a pre-set engine rpm.

The GSX-R1000’s all-new 43mm inverted forks with smooth-action Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coated inner tubes fully adjustable for spring preload, compression damping and rebound damping, as is the single rear shock.

Styling-wise, the 2003 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is distinguished by an aggressive new vertically-stacked headlight design that allows the ram-air intake ducts to be positioned closer to the centre of the fairing nose.

This is the point of highest air pressure and the increase in air pressure improves the charging efficiency of the machine and provides more torque when at higher speeds.

Suzuki has also incorporated practicality with the aggressive new look of the GSX-R1000, a narrower fuel tank adding knee room to make it easier for the rider to tuck in under the slipstream. The styling of the new GSX-R1000 additionally integrates an enclosed rear undertray and LED-type tail light.

SV1000/S and SV650/S - The New V-Twin Series

Suzuki’s new SV1000 is available in naked or half-fairing (SV1000S) versions, both powered by a proven 996cc Vee-Twin engine and featuring the latest version of the innovative Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) digital fuel injection system.

The SDTV system basically means everytime you grab a handful, the bikes computer systems translate these movements more rapidly to the engine.

With its big-bore, short-stroke Vee-Twin engine tuned to produce a broad powerband, the Suzuki SV1000 pumps out exceptional torque and throttle response at low and middle rpm, while a unique cam drive system makes the engine more compact.

A back-torque-limiting clutch system decreases pressure on the clutch plates under deceleration, contributing to smoother downshifts, while a new hydraulic clutch actuating system gives the SV1000 a lighter clutch feel.

The Suzuki SV1000 pair and upgraded-for-2003 SV650 and SV650S feature an innovative chassis made of an aluminium-alloy truss frame.

Production consistency and torsional rigidity are ensured because large sections of the frame are produced as a single precision die casting using a new high-vacuum-mould process.

This design means that the main frame sections are lighter than conventional welded-up sections and the new model SV650 is 3.0 kilograms lighter than the previous version, at 165kg dry. Not too shabby for a 645cc roller...

The proven SV650 engine is a liquid-cooled V-Twin and is tuned to deliver a wide, broad powerband and crisp throttle response for class-leading power and torque from its full 645cc of displacement.

Like its SV1000 brothers, the Suzuki SV650 now features the Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) digital fuel injection system.

The Suzuki SV1000S and revised SV650S feature a sleek half fairing, dual headlights, and clip-on handlebars, with a sporty chin fairing underneath the engine of the 1000.

The streetwise "naked" versions (SV1000 & SV650) have a single round headlight, tubular handlebars and a slightly more upright riding position.

All motorcycles in the SV series feature a new Light Emitting Diode (LED) taillight laid out in two unique vertical strips underneath the steeply-angled tail section, which actually look really impressive.

The outgoing SV650/S was a great seller in Australia - and around the world - for Suzuki, and with the new look and more sophisticated power delivery, the well balanced 650cc 'Zook is likely to attract many new buyers to the fold.

With summer on its way, this is typically the season in which motorcycle dealers shift the most stock, so hassle you local Suzuki dealer for a test ride.

The Burgman 250 - An Injection Of Power And Efficiency

Hitting the Australian shores for the first time will be the international class-leading Suzuki Burgman 250 scooter which has been updated for 2003 with stylish bodywork, new dual headlights and a redesigned engine, chassis and wheels.

Its four-stroke, four-valve, 249cc single Suzuki engine delivers smooth and linear power at any speed and features the renowned Pulsed-secondary AIR-injection (PAIR) system, which enables the combustion of residual air/fuel mixture for reduced emissions.

The Burgman 250’s rigid underbone frame is complemented by sturdy 43mm inner-tube front forks and an underslung link-type monoshock rear suspension system.

The all-round disc brakes are controlled by Suzuki’s Comination Braking System and are mounted to lightweight 13-inch, five spoke wheels with wide tyres.

Versatility is the key to this practical and stylish Suzuki scooter, with backrests for both rider and passenger, and the rider’s is easily adjustable using a simple lever.

Its practicality is highlighted by 55 litres of storage space that includes an underseat bay capable of storing two full-face helmets or a briefcase, plus numerous other additional storage compartments.

The Burgman 250 is expected to hit Australian shores in February 2003 and will be followed by the SV Series and GSX-R1000 during Autumn 2003.