Built to Own the Racetrack, the Suzuki GSX-R1000R 2018 captured the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship in its debut year asserting its claim as The King of Sportbikes.
It has been three decades, with more than a million editions sold, since the GSX-R line was born. And a decade and a half has elapsed since the first Suzuki GSX-R1000 transformed the open sportbike class forever.
This motorcycle’s chassis forms the lightest, the most compact, the most aerodynamic and the best-handling Suzuki GSX-R 1000 ever. Cradled in this aluminum frame is an advanced engine that uses an exclusive Variable Valve Timing system and Ride-by-Wire throttle bodies for a wide spread of power while delivering smooth and precise throttle response.
Using an Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU) the Suzuki GSX-R1000 R 2018’s advanced electronics package includes selectable performance modes so the motorcycle enhances and fine tunes rider inputs. The six-axis IMU lets the Suzuki GSX-R1000 2018 recognize its position on the street or race track to help the rider achieve an extraordinary level of riding performance.
Up front, the unique BREMBO T-drive brake rotors are grasped by Monobloc calipers to deliver strong, controlled braking, while the precise and smooth SHOWA suspension keeps the sticky Bridgestone RS10 tires in touch with the road. All of this forward-looking motorcycle technology is covered in sleek, wind tunnel-developed bodywork that’s uniquely GSX-R.
Suzuki GSX-R1000R 2018 Features
Key Features
Liquid-cooled, 999.8cc DOHC inline-four cylinder engine produces exceptionally high top-end power without sacrificing low to mid-range power thanks to a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, Ride-by-Wire Throttle Bodies and more.
Advanced electronics such as an Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU), S-DMS adjustable power output, Suzuki traction control, bi-directional quick-shifter, launch control, plus other performance features, increase racetrack and street performance.
The twin-spar type aluminum frame is 10% lighter and more compact that the prior generation GSX-R1000, with optimized rigidity for nimble handling and a high level of grip when cornering.
Advanced suspension uses a SHOWA Balance Free Fork and Balance Free Rear Cushion to combine with new Motion Track ABS-equipped BREMBO T-drive 320mm dual front brake rotors and Monobloc 4-piston calipers for extraordinary handling and stopping performance.
Aerodynamic bodywork is sleek and stylish while housing a new, bright LED headlight and Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) ducts that feed a high volume of intake air for astonishing top speed muscle. Blacked out instrument panel and GSX-R1000R logo alerts others that your bike is something extraordinary.
Advanced Electronic Features
Lighting fast 32-bit Dual Processor Engine Control Module (ECM) blends Suzuki’s vast street-going EFI knowledge with the intelligence from Suzuki’s race-winning MotoGP program. GSX-R1000R riders will get sportbike performance without peer while simultaneously receiving polished street manners.
Using MotoGP knowledge, Suzuki has fitted an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) on the GSX-R1000R. The IMU provides three axis, six direction, and motion and position information to the ECM so instantaneous adjustments can be made electronically to the engine and chassis components that influence performance.
The Ride-by-Wire electronic throttle bodies are precisely opened by the ECM to match the throttle grip rotation of the rider’s hand and the refinement from the IMU-influenced electronics. The result is a strong, seamless engine power delivery from idle to redline.
The Suzuki exclusive ten-mode, Motion Track Traction Control System (MT-TCS), with IMU influence, increases rider confidence by allowing adjustments to amount of intervention to match riding ability and surface conditions.
The Suzuki exclusive ten-mode, Motion Track Traction Control System (MT-TCS), with IMU influence, increases rider confidence by allowing adjustments to amount of intervention to match riding ability and surface conditions.
Exclusive to Suzuki, the Motion Track Anti-lock Brake System brings additional control to anti-lock braking (ABS). Like a conventional ABS system, the Motion Track Brake System provides the appropriate amount of braking force for the available traction. When the IMU detects the rear wheel lifting up from extreme braking forces, the ABS control module will adjust the front brake pressure to reduce the rear wheel lift. If the IMU senses the motorcycle is leaned over when the brakes are used, the ABS unit will adjust the brake pressure to an optimal amount to help maintain good braking force and tire grip.
The LCD Multi-function Instrument Panel was inspired by the GSX-RR MotoGP dash. This panel is laid out so the rider can easily see the tachometer bar, speedometer digits, and other essential operational information. This effective display is critical as it is the rider’s interface to the GSX-R1000R’s advanced electronics. The panel on the GSX-R1000R is unique as it features a black background.
The three mode, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) system lets the rider select the power output levels of the engine to match riding ability and conditions.
The Suzuki Easy Start System simplifies start up for the GSX-R1000R rider as the ECM automatically cranks the engine for 1.5 seconds (or until it starts) with a momentary press of the starter button. There is no need to pull in the clutch lever if the transmission is in neutral. Once started, the ECM will control the electronic throttle bodies to maintain a consistent engine idle speed, whether the engine is cold or warm.
The innovative Suzuki Low RPM Assist System smooths take-offs and reduces the chance of the rider stalling the motorcycle. If necessary, the ECM raises engine RPM slightly for a smoother start when the clutch is released so it’s easier to ride away from a stop or navigate at very low speeds in traffic.
The Suzuki Launch Control System provides GSX-R1000R riders a competitive advantage when launching their motorcycle at the start of the race. This system will modulate power so the rider can concentrate on clutch operation.
The Suzuki Bi-directional Quick-shift System lets GSX-R1000R racers shift faster than ever before. By ignition timing manipulation on upshifts and electronic throttle body manipulation on downshifts; clutch-less shifting helps deliver faster and more consistent lap times.
Engine Features
The compact, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 999.8cc inline-four cylinder engine is designed with a high level of top end performance plus strong low to mid-range power.
The crankshaft retains Suzuki’s Even Firing Order Engine legacy. Un-even firing order engines used in other motorcycles vibrate more while the GSX-R1000R ABS makes good power at all engine speeds, runs smoother and reliably while emitting a screamer exhaust note.
The short stroke engine has a 76.0 mm bore versus a 55.1mm stroke, yet is narrower than the prior generation GSX-R1000 thanks to effective design.
Compared to the prior generation GSX-R1000, the engine has been rotated back and positioned in the frame to create optimal chassis dimensions for precise handling and to balance the motorcycle’s weight.
The proprietary Suzuki Racing Variable Valve Timing System (SR-VVT) uses a centrifugal actuated mechanism on the intake camshaft sprocket to increase high engine RPM power without losing low-to mid-range power.
The Suzuki Racing Finger Follower valve train weights less than a tappet-style valve train for reduced friction and increased valve response at higher engine speeds.
Titanium valves, two 31.5mm intake and two 24mm exhaust valves, are used for each cylinder. The lighter valves respond well to the finger follower’s arms and permit a 14,500 RPM redline that helps produce very high peak horsepower.
Aluminum pistons, 76.0 mm in diameter, were engineered with use of FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis, and are cast for optimal rigidity and weight.
Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coated cylinders are integrated into the upper crankcase to reduce friction and improve heat transfer and durability.
The high 13.2:1 compression ratio helps produce high horsepower. The cylinder head’s shallow combustion chamber minimize heat produced during operation.
The EFI system uses Suzuki’s Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle Bodies where the throttle valves are controlled by a servo motor for fast response to rider throttle grip input while delivering precise and smooth power delivery.
The automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) improves cold starting and stabilizes the engine idle regardless of engine temperature.
Complementing the four primary fuel injectors in the throttle bodies are four Suzuki Top Feed Injectors (S-TFI) that spray fuel from the top of the air box directly into the intake funnels. This results in higher peak power, more efficient combustion, and a higher level of fueling control.
To increase top end power without losing lower RPM performance, the air box is equipped with Staked Air Intake Funnels for the #1 and #4 cylinders. This simple design allows good air flow at all intake speeds without requiring a mechanism that adds weight or complexity.
A pair of Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) intake ducts are used to exponentially increase the volumetric flow of air amount coming in the air box as road speed increases.
The digital ignition fires iridium type spark plugs that increase spark strength and combustion efficiency. These quality components also last longer than conventional spark plugs.
The 4-2-1 exhaust system with titanium muffler is designed helps the engine deliver a wide range of performance with an exciting rush up to redline. The titanium muffler has a pleasing appearance while creating an exciting, distinctive sound.
The Suzuki Exhaust Tuning (SET) system valve in the mid-pipe helps control back-pressure and flow to the muffler to widen power delivery and reduce exhaust sounds without needing a larger silencer.
A pair of SET-Alpha exhaust valves are in the balance tubes between the #1 and #4, and the #2 and #3 head pipes. Actuated by a cable from the main SET-valve, the Alpha valves open at higher engine speeds and close at lower RPM to help the engine create high peak power without losing low and mid-range horsepower.
The cooling system was designed using advanced analysis design so the coolant flows through the engine and radiator more efficiently. This design uses 400cc less coolant than the prior generation GSX-R1000, but the new system has better cooling efficiency while being more compact and lighter.
The fairing lowers efficiently guide cooling air to the high-capacity curved radiator. Twin cooling fans ensure good cooling at lower road speeds.
Additional heat is removed from the engine via the use of an air-cooled, radiator-style oil cooler mounted directly below the main radiator.
Transmission Features
The cassette-style, 6-speed transmission lets riders precisely match the gear ratio to the riding condition. A cassette-style transmission can be easily removed from crankcase as an assembly with the engine still in the frame, facilitating race track gear changes and simplified service.
Based on Suzuki’s race-proven close-ratio transmissions, the GSX-R1000R gear box features vertically staggered shafts to reduce overall engine length.
The primary gear ratio is lower compared to the prior generation GSX-R1000 for stronger acceleration.
The shift linkage can be easily set-up for reverse pattern, GP-style shifting (even with the quick-shifter in use).
A programmable shift light is on the main panel to provide a visual alert to the rider to shift when a certain engine RPM is reached.
The Bi-directional Quick-shift system lets riders, using their motorcycle in competition, shift faster than ever before. The system’s clutch less shifting delivers the rider faster and more consistent lap times.
The GSX-R1000R is equipped with the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) multi-plate, wet clutch. SCAS works like a slipper clutch during downshifts, while increasing pressure on the plates during acceleration. This smooths engine braking and lightens the clutch lever pull.
To reduce weight, a new 525-size drive chain is used with a 45/17 final sprocket ratio that complement the larger, rear tire dimensions.
Chassis Features
Using lessons learning from Suzuki MotoGP chassis development, the engine angle of the GSX-R1000R was rotated backwards 6-degrees as compared to the prior generation GSX-R1000. This had the joint effect of reducing the distance of the fork to the center of the chassis by 20mm and increase the swingarm length by 40mm. This increased chassis stability and improves aerodynamics.
The aluminum twin-spar style frame was designed using FEM analysis technology to place strength is the proper places, the new frame is also 10% lighter than the prior generation GSX-R1000. The spars of the frame are set 20mm closer to help improve aerodynamics, looks and to bring more comfort to the rider.
The aluminum Superbike-braced swingarm has equalized bracing to the main beams to provide balanced support and movement to the shock absorber to improve racetrack handling while conveying a consistent suspension feel to the rider.
Racetrack-developed links connect the single SHOWA Balance Free Rear Cushion lite (BFRC-lite) shock to the braced swingarm. The BFRC-lite’s innovative design controls damping force outside of the shock body to not only control how the suspension strokes but helps smooth reaction over bumpy surface or when the chassis is pitched during braking. The produces a superb level of response in a race track environment, and sets a new standard for rider feedback and comfort during street riding.
The SHOWA Balance Free Fork (BFF) uses race-level technology to bring excellent damping force responsiveness not seen in a SuperSport motorcycle before. This suspension’s design controls damping force outside of the spring chamber so the fork precisely maintains consistent damping regardless of its stroking action. With the BFF the rider enjoys an unparalleled level of surface feedback and ride compliance.
The GSX-R1000R is also fitted with a lightweight, race-ready upper triple clamp in conjunction with the BFF fork.
BREMBO Radial Mount Brake Calipers provide the rider with strong braking performance combined with superb feel.
The new BREMBO T-drive Brake Rotors feature two methods of attaching the 320mm floating disc to the carrier. There are five conventional floating rotor spools that maintain the rotor’s relationship to the caliper, and there are five new-design T-drive fasteners that enable the rotor to absorb more braking energy that a disc with conventional spools alone. As a result of the larger diameter discs, and the energy they can absorb, the GSX-R1000 has more braking force available to the rider than ever before.
The front brakes are complemented by a 240mm rear disc brake with a NISSIN single-piston caliper to help make sure the rider can have controlled stops.
Like conventional ABS, the Motion Track Brake System provides the appropriate amount of braking force for the available traction, with additional chassis pitch input from the IMU. When the IMU detects the rear wheel lifting up from extreme braking forces, or the motorcycle is leaned over, the ABS system will adjust the front brake to help settle the chassis and maintain braking.
Unique to Suzuki, the lightweight six-spoke wheels reduce unsprung mass and have been designed to handle the braking and drive forces that a GSX-R1000R can create.
The track-day ready Bridgestone RS10 low mass tires, with a high 55% profile in the back, are premium high-grip radials that achieve excellent handling and stability.
The aerodynamic bodywork was created by Suzuki styling designers and engineers using numerous wind tunnel tests to achieve a slippery shape and compelling appearance. Narrower than ever before, the GSX-R1000R’s shape directly aids performance by improved handling and top speed on the racetrack.
The dual SRAD intake ducts are positioned close to the center of the fairing nose, where air pressure is highest. The intake ducts are also larger, thanks to the compact LED headlight.
The reasonable sport riding position is created by a carefully crafted relationship between the clip-on’s, footrests and seat. The top of the fuel tank is lowered 21mm to make it easier for the rider to tuck in on a racetrack straightaway.
The reasonable 825mm (32.5 in.) seat height contributes to the good rider interface that aids in guiding the motorcycle on the road or race track.
The passenger seat can be removed and exchanged with an optional, color-matched solo tail cowl.
The shifter and rear brake pedal are adjustable in relationship to the footrests, and the hand controls are adjustable in relation to the grips. The front brake lever has a slot machined in the end to prevent wind pressure from applying the front brake.
Special GSX-R1000R logos are applied to the tail section of the motorcycle denoting its unique capabilities and status.
The black and white GSX-R1000R models feature tri-color blue Suzuki Racing Heritage stripes on the fairing, sparkling blue wheels, and blue-anodized outer tubes on the SHOWA BFF fork.
The Metallic Triton Blue GSX-R1000R model features a Team Suzuki ECSTAR MotoGP motif that incudes race-inspired graphics and gold-anodized outer tubes on the SHOWA BFF fork and rear shock absorber body.
Electrical Features
Controller Area Network wire harness (CAN Bus) allows for fast and precise communications between all of the GSX-R1000R’s Electronic Systems. With a CAN Bus system, riders will experience swift and trouble-free electronic system operation while the size and complexity of the wiring is simplified.
The LCD multi-function instrument panel has a black background with white digits and has an adjustable intensity, white-color backlight for great nighttime visibility. The LCD main panel is flanked by LED indicators that include the turn signals, high beam, traction control, shift light, plus coolant temperature and oil pressure alerts.
The LED headlight is lightweight, bright and distinctive. This low-electric draw light has a narrow, stacked shape to allow the SRAD ducts at the nose of the fair access to the high pressure air created at higher speeds.
The LED combination tail & brake Light has a very low electrical draw and the vertically stacked shape permits the tail section to be narrow for better air flow at the back of the motorcycle. The outer section of the taillight uses surface-type light emitting diodes for a smooth glow while the center portion uses bright, conventional LEDs for attention when the brakes are applied.
A pair of distinctive, arched LED position lights accent the top edge of the SRAD ducts in the fairing nose to increase visibility and add to the motorcycle’s unique character.
The turn signals are lightweight and use incandescent bulbs with amber lenses so the motorcycle’s turn indication is highly visible to other traffic.
New poly-function Start/Stop Switch combines the engine stop and start functions. The switch is a fine complement to the Suzuki Easy Start system fitted to the GSX-R1000R.
The motorcycle’s lightweight battery is a great benefit during closed course competition or track-day use. This compact battery has ample capacity to start the engine and supply power to the advanced electronics.
Suzuki GSX-R1000R 2018 Specifications
Colors
Metallic Triton Blue
Pearl Glacier White
Metallic Mat Black No. 2
Engine
Engine: 999.8cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder, DOHC
Bore x Stroke: 76.0 x 55.1 mm (2.992 x 2.169 in.)
Compression Ratio: 13.2: 1
Fuel System: Suzuki Fuel Injection with Ride-by-Wire throttle bodies
Starter: Electric
Lubrication: Wet sump
Drive Train
Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate type
Final Drive: Chain, RK525GSH
Chassis
Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Suspension Rear: Link type, single shock, coil spring, oil damped
Brakes Front: Brembo 4-piston, Disc, twin, , ABS-equipped
Brakes Rear: Nissin, 1-piston, Disc single, ABS-equipped
Tires Front: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless
Tires Rear: 190/55ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.0 L (4.2 US gallons)
Electrical
Ignition: Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Headlight: LED
Tail Light: LED
Dimensions
Overall Length: 2075 mm (81.7 in.)
Ground Clearance: 130 mm (5.1 in.)
Overall Height: 1145 mm (45.1 in.)
Seat Height: 825 mm (32.5 in.)
Overall Width: 705 mm (27.8 in.)
Curb Weight: 203 kg (448 lbs.)
