Suzuki GSX-R1000K9 Road Test

If there was ever a bike that's easy to misunderstand it's the latest GSX-R1000. It's specification sheet and, perhaps more importantly its 'GSX-R' name tag, give the impression of a beast that only experts should apply for. The reality is far different, and the Suzuki can be ridden safely by far more people, and in a much wider variety of circumstances than you'd think.

It's more real world identity isn't that obvious from a quick glance of the bike's racy-looking style. Garish and bright coloured bodywork also has the silhouette of a competition bike. And first impressions suggest more than a few miles in its seat would lead to some fairly serious physical and mental strain. Add the fact that the GSX-R is already competing well in the WSB championship and few would challenge the view that the 1000 has been designed with one priority in mind - speed, and lots of it.

Swing your leg over it though, and nestle into the relatively roomy riding position and your opinion is bound to change. There's no need whatsoever to make any sacrifices to comfort. Neither limbs nor neck feel they've been asked to contort themselves in any way to fit the bike. OK, it's no Goldwing, but neither is it something only a gymnast would feel at home on. I personally would be happy to ride all the way to Scotland and back on the Suzuki. I'd prefer it if the journey was predominantly dry and I didn't need to carry too much luggage. Though in saying that, the fairing does at least give some decent enough shelter and a tank bag could swallow a fair few essentials to make the trip more bearable. For a long single day's ride, only the most luxury-needy would find fault. There's even a chance to adjust the two-position footrests to aid the civility further.

Civilised is not an apt description for the pillion accommodation mind you. High footrests force much knee-bending, and the seat is too small to give the same support as the rider's. Its high elevation means the passenger towers above the relatively prone rider catching the wind and making the whole experience one to forget, even after little.

However, that's about it when it comes to criticism of the bike's refinement. And that's pretty much the case however you ride it. Suzuki's designers and engineers definitely had you, the road rider, in mind just as much as the likes of BSB star Sylvain Guintoli when they set about building this bike.