First Ride: 2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000

Open-class sportbikes are the showcase models that manufacturers like to brag about. After all, they are the thoroughbreds of each company's line. Suzuki is no different; its GSX-R1000 since its inception seven years ago has gone by one motto: “Own The Racetrack.” The Suzuki has been in the hunt in recent Cycle World shootouts, but the brute power of Kawasaki's ZX-10R has pummeled it into submission two years running.

So what did Suzuki do to counter-attack the big green bully? Well, it got stronger of course, to the tune of 4 percent more horsepower. Our calculations put it at 160 horsepower at the rear wheel (last year's made 154 hp on the CW dyno), same as the last 10R we tested. Touché. But there is more to winning shootouts than just power. Additionally, engineers focused on three other areas: cornering, braking and adjustability to suit rider preferences.

With identical bore and stroke dimensions (73.4 x 59.0mm) as before, the 999cc long-stroke engine's internals remain unchanged. Designers concentrated on increased combustion efficiency and reduced mechanical losses. Redesigned throttle bodies, with new more-compact 12-hole injectors, direct fuel spray into the intakes. Peak power is now made at 12,000 rpm instead of the previous bike's 11,000, and redline is raised by 250 rpm to 13,750. A 4-into-2-into-1-into-2 exhaust with catalyzer meets new emission requirements.

Adjustability comes in a couple of forms. A brand-new feature is the S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector), which allows the rider to choose between three power-delivery options via a handlebar-mounted switch. Footpegs can be adjusted 14mm forward/aft and up/down.

Suzuki completely redesigned the GSX-R1000's chassis for '07. A new frame, swingarm and suspension improve stability and handling. The addition of high- and low-speed compression damping on the fork and shock enhance rider adjustability. Suzuki has also updated the bike's steering damper with a speed-sensitive servo-controlled unit managed by the ECU.

On the Phillip Island racetrack south of Melbourne in Australia, the Gixxer was in its element. Fast track, fast bike in a stable new chassis meant lots of tire-smoking fun. The additional power was easily noticeable on track. The GSX-R's characteristic torque remains, but top-end power is more obvious. The new S-DMS may not be for everyone but it definitely does its job, seriously changing power characteristics between settings.

Handling is aided by a longer, more-stable wheelbase and excellent suspension. Whether accelerating hard with the front wheel skimming the tarmac, or loading the front end hard under braking for a hairpin, the GSX-R1000 was poised. Strong brakes and a perfect slipper clutch adding to rider confidence. Our brief two hours of track time aboard the new bike left a lasting impression. The 2007 Suzuki is not only a much improved motorcycle, but Phillip Island one of the most fun racetracks in the world. Now we just wait the answer to the perennial question: Is it the best of the best?