Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Suzuki reveals the new GSX-R1000 K9








It's that time of the year once again when Suzuki pulls off the covers to its new GSX-R1000, always better than the already superb model before it. The new K9 is obviously no different, but is it good enough to dethrone the current king of the superbikes; Honda's Fireblade?

Starting with the powerplant, the K9's 999cc inline-four is now lighter and more compact, with a slew of uprated internals including titanium valves and forged pistons just to name a few. Suzuki claims the new setup is able to produce more power and torque throughout the rev range while also reducing emissions and providing better fuel economy. A torque-limiting clutch should provide better feel for the clutch and the S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector) with 3 different levels of performance should make it more user-friendly and improve its usability off the track.


The 2009 model will also have improved high-speed handling with its shortened wheelbase and lengthened swingarm. Fully adjustable front forks and rear shock will allow the bike to provide race-like handling coupled when requested, and its uprated brakes should bring the 203kg bike to a halt almost instantly.


Styling wise, the new bike sports a more angular design, comes with 17" cast aluminium wheels and a pair of titanium mufflers to complete the package. Overall, the new bike looks quicker and more aggressive than before.

It seems that the K9 will once again be a real winner from Suzuki, but the question that still begs to be answered is who will win the Gixxer vs Blade shootout?


No comments: