Category: Motorcycles

1. Suzuki announces special edition Hayabusa

   Posted on 12:00pm Friday 21st Nov 2025

   Suzuki has announced a new special edition Hayabusa for 2026.   

   The Hayabusa special edition comes in a striking Pearl Vigor Blue with contrasting white trim, accents, and decals, including a bold kanji symbol on the fairing. An embossed Suzuki logo on the tank also contrasts the blue paint scheme. 

   The twin stainless steel exhausts are finished with black tips, and a seat cowl comes as standard. 

   The Hayabusa special edition uses the same legendary 1340cc inline four-cylinder powerplant as the standard Hayabusa, and a comprehensive electronics package that includes a six-axis IMU governing ABS, traction control, and anti-wheelie systems, plus launch, control cruise control, and a bi-directional quickshifter. 

   It comes with an OTR price of £18,999 and is available in dealerships now.

2. Royal Enfield to attend MCL25 with UK first look at all-new Bullet 650 and Flying Flea

   Posted on 12:00pm Friday 14th Nov 2025

   NEC, BIRMINGHAM – Royal Enfield, celebrating its monumental 125th anniversary, will showcase a blend of innovation and heritage at MCL25, held at the NEC, Birmingham. The event will host the first-ever UK displays of several highly anticipated new models.

   Headlining the showcase is the all-new Bullet 650, making its official UK debut.

   Visitors will also get an exclusive first look at the 2026 Flying Flea (C6 and S6), a special preview ahead of the model's full release next year.

   Alongside these debuts, Royal Enfield will display the new Himalayan 450 Mana Black, and a wider selection from its forthcoming 2026 model year range.

   Royal Enfield will be found centrally in Hall 3, on stand C20.

   What’s happening on the Royal Enfield stand at MCL25:

   New motorcycle models on display, including the:

   • UK reveal of the Bullet 650

   • Flying Flea C6 and S6 - official UK launch to the public

   • Himalayan 450 Mana Black Edition

   • Classic 650 Limited 125 Year Anniversary Edition

   • Shotgun 650 Rough Crafts Limited Edition

   • Custom and Heritage bikes from Royal Enfield

   • Many of the 2026 model range for Royal Enfield in the UK

   But that’s not all for MCL25, as there will be plenty of other Royal Enfield opportunities:

   • Chat to Royal Enfield’s Ride Partners - including Biker Bnb, Moto Junkies, as well as some new partners.

   • Book a test ride in the Elite Test Ride Zone whilst at the show (Guerrilla 450, Bear 650, Shotgun 650, Super Meteor 650). Riders must be over 21 years of age, held a licence for two full years, and have no more than 6 points on their licence.

   • Held at the Expert Lab on Tuesday, Glen Corbett and Chris Pollard will take to the stage at 12:30pm for a Q&A on their respective careers in the motorcycle industry and Royal Enfield, giving advice on how to get into the motorcycling industry.

   • Personalise your very own Royal Enfield with the Genuine Motorcycle Accessories configurator on the stand, guided by a team member.

   • Official apparel for sale on the Royal Enfield stand

   • Free barista coffee on the Royal Enfield stand for owners and Royal Enfield Owners Club members - just show your Royal Enfield key, or proof of membership.

   • For the kids: ceramic helmet painting and colouring

   Be sure to head down to the Royal Enfield stand at MCL25, found in Hall 3 C20, and celebrate 125 years of heritage meeting innovation!

    

    

    

3. Suzuki reveals SV-7GX at Eicma

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 10th Nov 2025

   Suzuki has revealed a new SV-7GX, which was unveiled today at Eicma in Milan, Italy. The covers were also pulled off an updated GSX-S1000GX.  The SV-7GX uses an updated version of Suzuki’s proven – and somewhat legendary – 645cc V-twin engine, which is now fully-compliant with the latest Euro5+ emissions regulations. Peak power is 73PS and peak torque is 64Nm. Aiding efficiency and performance is a new magneto, transmission gears, airbox, a ride-by-wire throttle, and a new exhaust system.  As the GX suffix suggests, the SV-7GX will provide a middleweight sports crossover option in the Suzuki lineup, alongside the range-topping GSX-S1000GX.  A steel trellis frame is equipped with suspension from KYB, which provides a plush ride quality designed to make it easy to cover distance in comfort on the 7GX. The seat height remains accessible for a multitude of riders at 795mm. Wheels are new cast aluminium 17”, front and rear, and are shod with Pirelli Angel GT 2 tyres. They work with the chassis to provide the sport element to the new sports crossover. Tokico calipers and twin 290mm discs provide the stopping power. Tall, wide, tapered aluminium ‘bars provide an upright and comfortable riding position, but place weight over the front tyre enough to generate feel and allow riders to enjoy the sporty side of the 7GX when away from the motorway or dual carriageways. Handguards come as standard.   On the electronics side, smartphone connectivity comes as standard and allows riders to access everything from maps to contacts and messages from intuitive switchgear on the left handlebar. All information is displayed via a colour TFT screen, which also indicates the selected throttle map, with three to choose from, as well as the chosen traction control setting, also with three to choose from, as well as off. There’s a USB-C charging port on the left hand side. The electronics package also includes a standard-fit bi-directional quickshifter for seamless up and down gear changes.  Wind-tunnel tested bodywork shields the rider from the worst of the elements and provides aerodynamic efficiency, with styling cues taken from the bigger GSX-S1000GX. There’s a 17.4-litre fuel tank. Lighting is full LED all round, with a new asaerial design at the front for improved illumination and visibility while cornering.  An accessories catalogue includes a 45-litre top box, soft panniers, tank bags, and heated grips.  Pricing for the SV-7GX will be announced in due course, with the arrival set for late summer, 2026.

4. Introducing the all-new BMW F 450 GS

   Posted on 12:00pm Saturday 8th Nov 2025

   "With the new BMW F 450 GS, BMW Motorrad presents a genuine BMW GS in the 48 hp A2 class. It embodies the essence of a GS: Get on, twist the throttle, have fun - with full control and maximum confidence. Its low weight, superior performance and perfect balance between agility and stability ensure a particularly intuitive riding experience. Thanks to its precise handling and typical GS expertise, it performs impressively both on and off the road. The F 450 GS is the perfect 'best buddy' for every riding situation. It is uncomplicated, robust, and always ready. It sets the benchmark for sporty adventure bikes in its class." Markus Flasch, CEO BMW Motorrad

   The new BMW F 450 GS: BMW GS expertise in the 48 hp A2 class in the iconic BMW GS design.
   The new BMW F 450 GS marks the next step in the GS model family, specifically addressing the 48 hp A2 class with proven GS technology and iconic design.

   At the EICMA international motorcycle show, BMW Motorrad gave a preview of a fully-fledged GS model already in 2024, which specifically addresses the steadily growing market segment of medium-sized displacement motorcycles.

   The series version of the BMW F 450 GS consistently lives up to this claim: It is a versatile all-rounder that combines everyday usability, sporty dynamic performance, touring comfort, and off- road capabilities. In the "GS Trophy" equipment variant, it follows in the footsteps of the concept vehicle. It adopts its striking design language and high-quality, high-tech components, including magnesium parts for maximum performance and low weight.

   With its balanced power-to-torque ratio, low weight, and characteristic GS ergonomics, the F 450 GS provides riding fun and confidence from the first meter. The new F 450 GS thus combines the classic GS spirit with a modern, accessible, and simultaneously powerful approach.

   "With the BMW F 450 GS, we are addressing a particularly broad target audience. This motorcycle is aimed at anyone who values maximum agility, versatility, pure riding pleasure, and cutting-edge technology – regardless of whether they are on the road every day, on long tours, or simply looking for a light, dynamic, and uncomplicated bike. The current trend toward downsizing, i.e., switching from heavy motorcycles to compact and versatile machines, demonstrates the great interest in this segment. The F 450 GS offers the ideal combination of playful handling, manoeuvrability, riding dynamics, and high-quality equipment – without compromising on quality or technical performance.” Astrid Neudecker, Product Manager BMW F 450 GS.

   The BMW Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) is a technical highlight and a further development of a centrifugal clutch. This system eliminates the need to manually operate the clutch lever while riding. This applies to all situations, from starting off and changing gears to demanding off-road manoeuvres. BMW Motorrad is setting a new standard in this vehicle class.

   A range of attractive options will be added at the time of market launch: The F 450 GS can be equipped with an Akrapovic end muffler and original BMW Motorrad cross-spoke wheels on request. The result is a package that combines sporty dynamic performance, technical innovation and GS DNA perfectly.

   Performance developed from scratch: A confident companion for both road and off-road riding.
   The completely redesigned BMW F 450 GS is a sporty adventure bike that complements the current BMW Motorrad model portfolio, with developers focusing on excellent handling characteristics, strong performance, durability, and optimum accessibility.

   The design focuses on the consistent implementation of the current GS design language. With iconic features such as the LED headlight with "X" daytime riding light and the distinctive flyline, the bike's affiliation with the BMW Motorrad GS family is clear at first glance.

   Completely redesigned, smooth-running and characterful two- cylinder in-line engine with 135-degree crankpin offset for dynamic riding pleasure on asphalt and off-road.
   At the heart of the new BMW F 450 GS is a completely newly developed two-cylinder in-line engine with fuel injection and a stainless steel exhaust system on the right-hand side. The new F 450 GS impresses with its powerful performance and pulling power, delivering a power output of 35 kW (48 hp) at 8,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 43 Nm at 6,750 rpm.
   
   Thanks to the use of high-tech materials and optimised internal friction, these performance values are achieved with exactly 420 cm3. This makes the engine one of the most compact and powerful in the A2 two-cylinder segment. It not only meets the strict EU5+ requirements but is also particularly economical, consuming just 3.8 litres per 100 km. A range of over 350 km can be achieved in conjunction with the 14-litre tank. The maintenance interval is the standard 10,000 km for BMW motorcycles.

   Unique on the motorcycle market, the engine features a crankshaft with crankpins offset by 135 degrees and, in conjunction with a single balance shaft, sets a technical exclamation mark: this design ensures a characterful, emotional ride while simultaneously reducing unwanted vibrations to an exceptionally low level.

   Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) for a significant increase in dynamics, operating comfort, and riding comfort.
   A technical highlight of the new BMW F 450 GS is the Easy Ride Clutch (ERC). Its core is a precision centrifugal unit in the clutch, which engages the clutch depending on engine speed.

   This system is standard on the GS Trophy variant and available as an optional accessory for all other model variants. In combination with the Shift Assistant Pro, manual operation of the clutch lever is completely eliminated – from starting off and gear changes to demanding manoeuvres.

   The clutch lever, however, remains intact and allows the rider to intervene manually at any time if necessary – for example, to lift the front wheel over an obstacle or to improve control when descending on slippery surfaces.

   Technologically, the ERC is based on an advanced centrifugal clutch. Unlike conventional systems, it remains closed during overrun. This creates natural, familiar, and predictable handling at all times – comparable to a conventional clutch. The engine brake remains fully active until just before a stop; only when the idle speed is reached does the ERC automatically open, reliably preventing the engine from stalling.

   The system ensures greater dynamics, control, and comfort – whether manoeuvring, in city traffic, on winding roads, or off-road.

   Six-speed transmission and left-mounted secondary drive.
   Shift Assistant Pro for quick upshifts and downshifts without clutch operation.
   The likewise newly designed six-speed transmission transmits torque to the left-hand secondary drive via an X-ring chain. For fast upshifts and downshifts without clutch operation, the new F 450 GS is offered with Shift Assistant Pro in all equipment variants except the basic variant. This can be retrofitted to the basic version.

   "Rain," "Road," and "Enduro" riding modes, as well as ABS Pro, DBC, DTC, and MSR (engine drag control), are standard features for a high level of riding enjoyment and safety. An additional "Enduro Pro" riding mode is available starting with the Exclusive trim variant.
   The BMW F 450 GS offers three riding modes as standard: "Rain", "Road" and "Enduro", allowing the motorcycle to be adapted to suit individual preferences. Standard equipment also includes ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control (MSR).

   The additional “Enduro Pro” mode, which is used from the Exclusive equipment variant onwards, is designed for off-road use with coarse-tread off-road tires and allows the ABS on the rear wheel to be deactivated.

   Newly developed chassis with tubular steel frame for optimal rigidity, robustness, and driving precision. Short wheelbase for agile and playful handling.
   The new BMW F 450 GS also features a completely new chassis concept. Playful handling, optimum accessibility, high riding precision and riding stability were the developers' top priorities. The specially developed lattice-tube frame of the BMW F 450 GS consists of welded steel tubes and forged parts. The frame integrates the two-cylinder in-line engine as a supporting element and is designed to be lightweight yet robust.

   The front wheel is guided via KYB upside-down telescopic forks, while the rear wheel is guided via an aluminium hollow cast double armed swinging arm with a KYB central spring strut featuring progressive damping.
   Front wheel control is provided by a torsionally rigid KYB upside- down telescopic fork with a 43 mm inner tube diameter. The Sport and GS Trophy variants feature the so-called "sports suspension." The fork is adjustable for rebound and compression damping. Rear wheel control is provided by a closed, and therefore extremely torsionally rigid, yet lightweight, hollow-cast aluminium double- sided swing arm, coupled with a directly connected KYB central spring strut (adjustable spring preload and rebound damping) with travel-dependent damping derived from rally racing, a unique feature in this segment.

   Wheels and tires tailored to the typical BMW GS applications.
   The new BMW F 450 GS features lightweight yet robust cast aluminium wheels. It is fitted with tubeless tires for road and off-road use, sized 100/90-19 at the front and 130/80-17 at the rear. Additionally, the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories range offers cross-spoke wheels.

   A powerful braking system combined with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro ensures safe braking even when leaning. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Dynamic Brake Light are additional safety features.
   The front wheel of the new BMW F 450 GS features a floating single-disc brake with a Brembo 4-piston fixed calliper and a 310 mm brake disc diameter for superior, stable deceleration. A single disc brake with 1-piston floating calliper and 240 mm diameter is used on the rear wheel.

   The new BMW F 450 GS already comes standard with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro. ABS Pro also offers increased safety when braking in curves by enabling ABS-assisted braking while leaning. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) offers increased safety when braking, even in difficult situations, by preventing unintentional throttle application. The dynamic brake light effectively alerts following vehicles to the braking motorcycle ahead.

   Optimal ergonomics and equipment for comfortable, playful, and agile motorcycling on and off-road.
   A sophisticated ergonomic triangle and a high, close-to-the-body handlebar made of tapered aluminium tubing ensure an ideal riding position in all conditions. The body and the 14-litre fuel tank below it are designed for optimal support and good knee contact, both when seated and while standing off-road. A wide range of accessories are available to meet the individual needs of riders, including a handlebar riser, a rally seat, and the option of a low seat.

   Three different seat variants, adjustable hand levers, a handlebar riser, and secure footrests with height-adjustable gearshift and footbrake levers ensure optimal riding comfort both on and off- road.
   The new BMW F 450 GS comes with a two-part seat (845 mm) as standard. The low Black rider's seat (830 mm) and the high Rallye seat in Black/White/Red (865 mm), available as part of the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories, can be adapted to individual requirements. The standard adjustable handlebar levers and the optional 20 mm handlebar risers made of high-strength anodised silver aluminium offer further adjustment options.

   The new BMW F 450 GS comes standard with a footrest system with removable rubber grips, whose serrated profile makes it suitable for off-road use. A very practical feature is the easy height adjustment of the foot brake lever by 20 mm in two positions to suit individual needs for on- and off-road riding. The gearshift lever is also height-adjustable. Wider enduro footrests are included starting with the Exclusive version or are available as optional accessories.

   High touring and everyday performance thanks to sophisticated vehicle and weather protection, as well as a comprehensive storage concept.
   The modular design of the available windshields (optional accessories) allows for individual customisation. Depending on the intended use and personal preference, you can choose between the high Tour windshield (height-adjustable) and the clear or tinted Rally windshield. This allows the comfort and wind and weather protection of the new BMW F 450 GS to be tailored specifically to individual needs.

   In the event of a fall or tip-over, Original BMW Motorrad Accessories offer effective ways to protect your motorcycle from damage, including engine guards, engine protection bars, front axle protectors, and other protective components.

   The diverse range of special accessories – whether side bags, tail bags, luggage rolls, tank bags, luggage racks, or top cases – offers maximum flexibility for every application.

   Powerful LED light units as standard. Connectivity featuring a large, perfectly readable 6.5-inch TFT display that provides comprehensive information and functionality. Practical USB-C socket in the cockpit area.
   The new BMW F 450 GS features an LED headlight with an iconic "X" daytime riding light signature as standard. The turn indicator and control lamps of the F 450 GS also use LED technology.

   A large 6.5-inch TFT display is also standard on the new BMW F 450 GS. The variety of information, display quality, and, last but not least, user-friendliness are premium. It comes standard with screen displays tailored to the BMW GS world: the Pure Ride Screen and the Sport Screen with detailed information on DTC, braking force, and lean angle. Taking phone calls, listening to music, and navigation while riding is also possible.

   Four attractive equipment variants for the new BMW F 450 GS.
   The new BMW F 450 GS is available in four equipment variants: the BMW F 450 GS Basis model in Cosmic Black and the BMW F 450 GS Exclusive, also in Cosmic Black, with off-road footrests, hand guards, a plastic underbody guard, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, and a clear windshield.

   Another equipment variant is the BMW F 450 GS Sport in Racing Red, featuring off-road footrests, hand guards, a plastic underbody protection, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, a clear windshield, and the “sports suspension” (with KYB fork adjustable in rebound and compression). The fourth variant, the BMW F 450 GS Trophy in Racing Blue Metallic, tops the lineup. It features off-road footrests, white hand guards, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, “Sports Suspension”, a tinted rally windshield, an aluminium engine guard, and the new, enhanced version of centrifugal clutch: the Easy Ride Clutch (ERC).

    

   The highlights of the new BMW F 450 GS:

   • Development focus: excellent handling characteristics, strong performance, durability, and optimal accessibility

   •Outstanding power-to-weight ratio within the A2 class: 48 hp with a ready-to-ride weight of just 178 kg

   • Sporty adventure bike with a twin-cylinder inline engine producing 35 kW (48 hp) at 8,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 43 Nm at 6,750 rpm

   • Characterful engine with extremely smooth running thanks to a balance shaft and 135-degree crankpin offset

   Four attractive equipment variants:

   -  BMW F 450 GS Basic

   -  BMW F 450 GS Exclusive (incl. off-road foot pegs, hand guards, engine guard, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro and clear windshield)

   -  BMW F 450 GS Sport (incl. off-road foot pegs,
   hand guards, engine guard, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, clear windshield and sport suspension)

   -  BMW F 450 GS Trophy (incl. off-road foot pegs, white hand guards, Riding Modes Pro,
   Shift Assistant Pro, tinted Rallye windshield, sport suspension, aluminium engine guard and Easy Ride Clutch)
   
   • Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) for significantly improved operating and riding comfort, as well as dynamics, as standard in the GS Trophy trim level; it can be retrofitted to all other F 450 GS model variants
   
   • Six-speed transmission and left-mounted secondary drive. Shift Assistant Pro for quick upshifts and downshifts without using the clutch

   
   • Right-side stainless steel exhaust system with two catalytic converters

   • "Rain," "Road," and "Enduro" riding modes, as well as ABS Pro, DBC, DTC, and MSR, are standard features for a high level of riding enjoyment and safety. Additional "Enduro Pro" riding mode is available starting with the Exclusive trim level
   
   • Newly developed chassis with a tubular steel frame for optimal rigidity, robustness, and handling precision. Short wheelbase and compact packaging

   
   • Wheel control at the front via an KYB upside-down telescopic fork and at the rear via a hollow-cast aluminium double-sided swing arm with a KYB central spring strut, adjustable for spring preload and rebound, and with travel-dependent damping

   • Wheels and tires tailored to the typical BMW GS applications

   
   • Powerful Brembo (front) and ByBre (rear) braking system in conjunction with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro for safe braking, even when leaning. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Dynamic Brake Light are additional safety features

   • Optimum ergonomics and equipment for relaxed yet dynamic motorcycling on and off-road

   • High-performance touring and travel capabilities

   • Footrests with adjustable gearshift and footbrake levers for optimal grip on and off-road

   • Adjustable hand levers as standard

   • Heated grips as standard

   • Powerful LED headlights and lights as standard

   • Connectivity with extensive options and exemplary functionality in the form of a large, perfectly legible 6.5-inch TFT display

   • Practical USB-C socket in the cockpit area

   • Tailor-made customisation options as part of the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories range in renowned premium quality, such as:

   - Cross-spoke wheels
   
   - Comprehensive wind and weather protection with various windshield variants
   
   - Luggage systems
   
   - Handlebar risers
   
   - Various seat variants (Rally seat, low seat). - Aluminium engine guard

    

   Prices:

   UK

   Base - £6,990

   Exclusive - £7,290

   Sport - £7,440

   GS Trophy - £7,760

    

   Market Launch is Spring 2026.

    

    

5. 40 years of GSX-R to be celebrated at MCL

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 28th Oct 2025

   Four decades of one of the most important and iconic lines of sportsbikes will be celebrated at MCL [Motorcycle Live] 2025, when Suzuki marks the 40th anniversary of GSX-R. 

   The 1985 GSX-R750F transformed the world of sportsbikes and laid the foundations for every sportsbike that’s followed since, through to the reveal of the new GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition earlier this year. To mark the milestone, a dedicated display will celebrate arguably the most significant and legendary motorcycling lineages in history. 

   The lineup will feature a number of models from the GSX-R’s history, including a 1985 GSX-R750. Other notable inclusions include a GSX-R750 SRAD and a K5 GSX-R1000. 

   And, to kickstart the MCL celebrations, Suzuki will host a special VIP event on the morning of Saturday 15 November – the opening day of MCL 2025 – which will take place on the Suzuki stand an hour before the show opens to the public. The event will celebrate both the anniversary and the launch of the new GSX-R1000R, with attendance by invitation only and open to customers that have placed a deposit on the 2026 GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition. 

   Hosted and compered by renowned presenter and broadcaster Grace Webb, it will include insight into the new GSX-R from Paul de Lusignan, Suzuki GB’s director of motorcycles, followed by talks with 2024 Endurance World Championship winner Dan Linfoot, who also recently won the 2025 Bol d’Or with the Yoshimura Suzuki Endurance Team, and 2004 British Superbike champion and former GSX-R test rider, John Reynolds.  

   VIPs will receive a goody bag, the chance to meet and talk with Linfoot, Reynolds, and the Suzuki GB team, and get a first look at the GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition in the metal before anyone else in the UK. 

   Suzuki GB marketing manager, Jak Tyrrell, said, “I think it’s fair to say that no other range of motorcycles has moved the game on in the way that GSX-R has over the last four decades, or has played such a big part in the motorcycling journey of so many riders over the years. 40 years is an incredible milestone, and we’re really excited to be able to celebrate such an anniversary at MCL, talk with owners old and new about their GSX-R history, all ahead of the arrival of the anniversary edition next year.” 

   In 1985 the GSX-R750F became a landmark moment in production sportsbike design, delivering genuine track performance on the road to the masses, combining a lightweight aluminium chassis with a race-derived, oil-cooled four-cylinder engine. The GSX-R1100 followed the following year, doubling the GSX-R stable, becoming the big-bore sportsbike of choice.  

   Evolution became revolution with the arrival of the GSX-R750 SRAD in 1996. Based on the dimensions and ergonomics of Kevin Schwantz’s 1993 Grand Prix World Championship-winning RGV500 and with a new twin-spar aluminium frame and compact, high-revving engine, it brought the GSX-R closer than ever to Suzuki’s factory race bikes. 

   The first GSX-R600 followed in 1997, and, with the discontinuation of the GSX-R1100, the first GSX-R1000 was released in 2001, again moving the sportsbike game on a stage further, with a power-to-weight ratio that redefined superbike standards. It won the British Superstock championship in its first year with Aussie Paul Young, and again in its second and third years of competition. The 2005 GSX-R1000 K5, four years later, built on that foundation and brought further advances, winning the World Superbike Championship at the hands of Troy Corser. It remains revered today, 20 years on. 

   The 2011 GSX-R750 and 600s were widely-praised following their release, with the 600 going on to win the British Supersport Championship in its first year with Alastair Seeley. The GSX-R1000 underwent its final evolution in 2012 before being completely redesigned for 2017. 

   Incorporating MotoGP-derived technology – most notably with a clever variable valve timing system – the L7 GSX-R1000R was again widely praised for its track performance but also its civility as a road-going superbike. It won that year’s Senior TT with Michael Dunlop onboard, and after finishing runner-up twice, it won the 2019 National Superstock 1000 championship courtesy of Richard Cooper. 

   Where GSX-Rs – and the 1000 in particular – have dominated is in the Endurance World Championship. Unlike sprint superbike and superstock racing, endurance racing is not only a test of performance but reliability, and the GSX-R1000 has won the world title 15 times, its latest coming in 2024.

   Suzuki is looking to make it 16 world titles in 2026, and the new GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition goes on sale in the UK in the spring. 

   For more information on the GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition click here. 

   At MCL Suzuki can be found on stand 3D25 in hall 3A.