2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R First Look Preview

Within its official 2024 model announcements last month, Suzuki designated the entire GSX-R family as returning models with no mechanical updates for the year, save new color options. And while we can understand the need to stay conservative in a rapidly changing racing environment, frankly, it’s a bit of a head-scratcher to see the GSX-R1000 model return unchanged, since 2024 signifies the 40th anniversary of the GSX-R nameplate. It’s a milestone you’d expect would herald major improvements to the flagship model, but alas, for 2024, we’ll have to settle for a couple of new colors.

The last time we saw a major update to the 1000 was in 2017, when a complete overhaul included a beefed-up 999cc engine rated at 200 hp, traction control with an IMU, advanced suspension, LED lighting, and more. On the 2024 model, we see much of the same, with the inline-four engine still pumping out that prodigious top-end and a super-stout midrange thanks to Suzuki’s MotoGP-developed variable valve timing system and ride-by-wire throttle.

As before, a fully adjustable Showa Big Piston Fork handles damping forces while a link-type single shock absorbs the blows out back. ABS-equipped Brembo T-drive dual brake rotors and Brembo four-piston calipers provide the stopping performance up front.

Advanced electronics include a now-standard bidirectional quickshifter (previously only available on the R1000R model), an Inertial Measurement Unit, three power modes, 10-mode traction control, and Motion Track ABS, which Suzuki says provides the appropriate braking force for the available traction (and also helps to control rear-wheel lift).

For 2024, the GSX-R1000 gets a new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray paint scheme with dark red wheels to join the returning Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black scheme, which also gets new blue graphics on the fairing and wheels.

While we’re disappointed there aren’t any updates for 2024, the big Gixxer still provides an extremely competent and well-priced alternative to the Kawasaki ZX-10R, or even the Honda CBR1000RR if you’re on the hunt for a trackday weapon.

As for the closely related 2024 GSX-R1000R model, you’re looking at a spec sheet that very closely mimics the GSX-R1000′s. Most of the same advanced electronic rider aids appear here, with adjustable traction control, an IMU, Motion Track ABS, and a bidirectional quickshifter all coming standard.

But the R1000R adds launch control to the mix as well as Showa’s more advanced

Balance Free Front Fork (BFF) and Balance Free Rear Cushion Light (BFRC-Lite) suspension components, with the fork and shock absorber body receiving a gold anodized finish. Up front there are radially mounted Brembo Monoblock brake calipers grasping a pair of 320mm Brembo T-drive floating brake rotors, with stainless steel brake lines to add even more stopping power.

The GSX-R1000R also ups the ante with a model-specific, black background LCD multifunction instrument panel inspired by the GSX-RR MotoGP dash. The R model also receives a unique GSX-R1000R logo on the tail to distinguish it.

But as we’ve said, the main update for 2024 is with the paint options; the GSX-R1000R’s newest scheme is known as Glass Matte Mechanical Gray paint scheme with dark red wheels. You can also opt for the returning Metallic Matte Black No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black scheme which now has new, bright blue graphics on the fairing and black wheels. The last option for the 2024 GSX-R1000R is the race-inspired Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Triton Blue color scheme with bright blue wheels and blue-anodized suspension components.

While it looks like an updated GSX-R1000 isn’t in the cards for the US market in 2024, we’re still hopeful; new patent applications strongly hint that a new model is coming, with an updated aero package, possibly revised variable valve timing (perhaps computer controlled), improved suspension, and possibly a (sorely needed) TFT screen. Stay tuned.