Bikes

Gallery: The 2016 Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP Bike

An updated machine for Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales

February 3, 2016

Suzuki continues to develop its GSX-RR MotoGP machine for riders Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. The Ecstar Suzuki team released these images of the 2016 model prior to the opening test of the year at Sepang. Scroll through the gallery below to see the images.

Suzuki claims more than 230 horsepower for the 2016 version of the GSX-RR, and a top speed of over 205 mph. The engine is an inline four-cylinder with four valves per cylinder. Updates for this year include a new seamless gearbox, which Maverick Vinales debuted in a private test at Sepang prior to the first official test this week. As for all teams this year, another change is the spec electronics and software, as well as the switch to Michelin tires.Courtesy of Suzuki

At the official Sepang test, the Ecstar Suzuki team worked with a new frame and new engine specification, as well as the seamless gearbox. "The first thing I tried was the seamless gearbox," said Aleix Espargaro. "I wanted to try it because in November I couldn’t be here because of the accident I had; we still have some work to finalise it, we need to find some fine-tuning in its set-up, but the improvement from the standard transmission is very important. I also like the engine with the new specs; to me it looks to have gained a good power distributed over all the curve, which is good for the riding feeling."Courtesy of Suzuki

#motogptech - A new lever on the left hand handlebar: it came with seamless gearbox and it is needed to put the Neutral gear.
Posted by Team Suzuki Ecstar on Sunday, January 31, 2016

From the Team Suzuki Ecstar Facebook page: A new lever on the left hand handlebar: it came with seamless gearbox and it is needed to put the Neutral gear.

"The difference between the standard transmission and the seamless is evident," said Maverick Vinales, "even if we still lack in fine set-up and the improvements are sensible in the lap times. I’m also happy with the new specification engine, not only is it better and faster, but also gives me a positive confidence."Courtesy of Suzuki

Following the Sepang test, both riders will travel to the Suzuki factory in Hamamatsu to test in the wind tunnel and help designers and engineers to finalize the GSX-RR's aerodynamics.Courtesy of Suzuki

On the final day of testing at Sepang, Maverick Vinales posted the 10th quickest time at 2:01.244.Courtesy of Suzuki

After missing the team's private test at Sepang prior to the first official test due to a training injury, Aleix Espargaro posted the 12th quickest time on the third day of the official test, at 2:01.623.Courtesy of Suzuki

"The Factory is working really hard to deliver us improvements and updates," said Aleix Espargaro following the Sepang test. "We keep working on pretty much all aspects; chassis, engine, gearbox, electronics and there is much room for improvement, but I feel totally positive about this.”Courtesy of Suzuki