December 13, 2005 It may not be the 250 bhp turbocharged 1500cc B-King we’d been hoping for, but it’s at least using the B-King styling. It’s the latest “street fighter” and Suzuki took the global wraps off it this week - the much-anticipated all-new GSR600. Like all the new aggressively-styled naked bikes, the GSX-R600 hopes it can bring its unique qualities to the new breed of motorcycle. The culmination of an exciting engine and chassis design program that aimed to create a sporty motorcycle in which ‘modern art meets race technology’… the result is edgy styling and comfort seamlessly blended with performance, technology and handling that is first-class.” Based on the race-proven powerplant of the GSX-R600, the high-performance, liquid-cooled GSR600 engine is tuned for a broader powerband and more low-and mid-range torque.
Incredibly compact, the GSR600’s in-line four-cylinder, four-stroke with DOHC engine incorporates staggered transmission shafts and a three-piece crankcase.
The revolutionary SDVT (Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve) fuel injection uses two double-barrel 38mm throttle bodies with the secondary valve controlled by a 32-bit Engine Control Module (ECM) based on engine rpm, gear and throttle position to produce a seamless, linear throttle response.
Sending fresh air from the airbox to the exhaust ports, Suzuki’s renowned PAIR (Pulsed secondary AIR) system reduces carbon-monoxide emissions.
Incorporating a compact combustion chamber with narrow valve angles, the downdraft cylinder head comes directly from the GSX-R600, while the hollow camshafts reduce weight and advanced cam timing enhances the mid-range torque.
Manufactured using a high-pressure casting technique, Suzuki Super Cast (SSC) pistons are less porous to offer increased strength.
For improved efficiency, the cylinders are integrated into the upper crankcases and coated with Suzuki’s race-proven SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material) to allow better heat transfer and tighter piston-to-cylinder clearance.
The six-speed transmission features primary and internal ratios developed for street use with relatively low first and second gear ratios that are especially convenient for city riding.
Equipped with a 6.5-litre, stainless steel, under-seat muffler, the GSR600’s quiet and efficient exhaust system offers a satisfying engine note from its dual outlets.
Suzuki’s new street fighter weighs in at 183 kilograms and, at just 785mm, has a lower seat height than its competition.
The aluminium-alloy frame and swingarm are both built using advanced alloy production technology resulting in main frame spars with a seamless surface.
Fitted with KYB front forks with 43mm stanchion tubes, spring preload can be easily adjustable to match rider and passenger weight.
Working through an advanced progressive link suspension system, the single rear shock has adjustable spring preload and rebound damping. Delivering exceptional, all-day rider comfort, the newly designed seat blends with the slim side covers for the rider to put a foot down more easily when stopped.
Braking with extreme confidence, the GSR600 features fully floating, dual, 310mm front discs with four-piston calipers and a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper.
With a three-spoke, spiral layout, the 17-inch cast-aluminium-alloy wheels are fitted with a 120/70-17 front tyre and 180/55-17 on the rear.
Wrapping around the centre-mounted muffler, the GSR600’s unique tail-section carries dual LED taillights with innovative, new indicators both front and rear.
The instrument panel includes an analogue tachometer, digital speedometer and LCD digital gear position indicator, while the ignition switch is conveniently located behind the upper triple clamp.
Security conscious, the GSR600 has an immobiliser fitted as standard. Featuring Suzuki’s two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, the GSR600 will be available in Candy Blue.
Pricing for the Suzuki GSR600 will be announced closer to the release date estimated for Q2 2006.