Engine L-C 16V 1340 Inline-four Seat HT. 31.7 in. Wheelbase 58.3 in.
Suzuki makes no excuses for the Hayabusa, saying up front that it, “quite simply, isn’t for everyone.” A lot of people think otherwise, judging by how popular the model has been for the company since its 1999 introduction and 2008 makeover. Look for the big GSX in Glass Sparkle Black and Pearl Glacier White this year.
Engine L-C 16V 999 Inline-Four Seat HT. 31.9 in. Wheelbase 55.3 in.
Suzuki is aiming to take back the literbike crown it once held for years with the GSX-R1000, as the bike is tweaked for ‘12 with internal Engine updates, a 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system, Showa Big Piston Fork, Brembo monobloc calipers and other refinements. Meanwhile, MSRP goes up by only $200.
Engine L-C 16V 750 Inline-Four Seat HT. 31.9 in. Wheelbase 54.7 in.
Fresh off its 25th anniversary and an upgrade last year, the middle GSX-R has long been a standout performer, lacking only some competition to prove its mettle. For 2012 it’s available in traditional Suzuki colors as well as this new Marble Daytona Yellow/Glass Sparkle Black combination.
Engine L-C 16V 599 Inline-Four Seat HT. 31.9 in. Wheelbase 54.5 in.
After a long run in the doldrums of our middleweight comparison tests, the GSX-R600 returned to the top of the heap last year following its major update (“Return Engagement,” Aug. 2011). The 2011 model also won the AMA Daytona SportBike and SuperSport championships, proving its strengths on the racetrack.
Engine L-C 16V 1255 Inline-Four Seat HT. 31.7 – 32.5 in. Wheelbase 58.5 in.
“Think of the GSX1250FA as a kinetically charged invitation to enjoy the ride of your life,” says Suzuki of its big-bore standard model. We definitely agree, as the bike is plenty comfortable and way fun to ride. Check out how easily we added 30 horsepower for the full experience though (“GSX-essive,” Jan. 2012).
Suzuki V-Strom 1000 $10,399 Engine L-C 8V 996 V-Twin Seat HT. 33.1 in. Wheelbase 60.4 in.
Wow, here’s a surprise: After a two-year hiatus the big V-Strom returns for 2012. The 996cc V-twin Engine, culled from the SV/TL models, has long been one of our favorites in any form. An Adventure model is available with side and top cases, adding long-haul capability and $600 to the MSRP.
Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS $8299 Engine L-C 8V 645 V-twin Seat HT. 32.9 in. Wheelbase 61.4 in.
Suzuki has updated the “Wee-Strom” with the development concept “The comfortable adventure tourer.” That means more power in the low-end and midrange, new styling, better wind protection and improved fuel economy, among other upgrades. Adventure model ($9799) includes aluminum side cases, Engine bar and an adjustable windscreen.