Suzuki has unveiled the 40th Anniversary Edition of the GSX-R1000R. The litre-class superbike returns with a Euro 5+-compliant engine and revised electronics, while paying homage to four decades of GSX-R heritage.
- Suzuki GSX-R gets three retro-inspired liveries for its 40th anniversary
- Updated 1,000cc engine with higher compression and new internal components
- New winglets and revised electronics for improved track performance
GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary: What’s new?
Features internal rework and emissions compliance updates.
Visually, the 40th Anniversary Edition stands out with three striking, retro-inspired paint schemes – Blue/White, Red/White and Yellow/Matte Blue. All three feature a special 40th anniversary decal on the fairing and fuel tank, a retro ‘R’ logo on the belly pan, and GSX-R branding on the seat and exhaust. The clutch and magneto covers are finished in grey, while the exhaust silencer and wheels also get subtle cosmetic detailing to mark the occasion.
Updated engine tuned for performance while complying with emissions norms.
The GSX-R1000R continues to be powered by a 1000cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that produces 195hp and 110Nm, but it now meets Euro5+ norms thanks to substantial internal changes.
These include updated camshafts, a wider cam chain, a higher compression ratio (now 13.8:1), and larger throttle bodies. The exhaust valve diameter has grown from 24mm to 25mm, and Suzuki claims that the connecting rods are now made of stronger steel to withstand higher levels of tune.
The MotoGP-derived variable valve timing system has been retained, as has the finger-follower valve train, though with optimised shapes. The secondary injector now features eight holes instead of 10, helping meet emissions targets without compromising on performance.
GSX-R continues to get the same chassis.
The chassis remains unchanged, with the twin-spar aluminium frame. Suspension comes courtesy of Showa with a USD fork and monoshock, and an electronically controlled steering damper. Braking up front comes from Brembo monoblock calipers paired with 320mm discs and a lighter ABS unit that Suzuki claims contributes to weight savings of 51gm. There’s a 220mm disc at the rear. The bike continues to ride on cast aluminium wheels shod with Bridgestone RS11 tyres.
A key addition is the new dry carbon winglets, developed with the Suzuki CN Challenge race team. However, it is worth mentioning that these are optional accessories.
The GSX-R1000R now features an updated electronics suite supported by a 6-axis IMU. Traction control has been enhanced and it works pre-emptively to reduce wheelspin based on lean angle and speed, offering smoother corner exits. It continues to get launch control, lean-sensitive ABS, slope-dependent control, bi-directional quickshifter and ride-by-wire throttle.
It remains to be seen if Suzuki India has any plans to launch the special edition GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition in India.
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Vishal Venugopal
