The Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition is a special limited-edition version of the popular naked sportbike, the GSX-S1000. It was released in the summer of 2023 and is exclusive to the French market. The Suzuki Endurance Racing Team inspires the bike with several upgrades and cosmetic enhancements, making it a sportier and more track-ready machine.
Cosmetic Upgrades:
- Tail Tidy: Provides a sportier silhouette by tidying up the bike’s rear end.
- GB Racing Engine and Crankcase Protectors: Offers added protection to the engine and crankcase during potential impacts.
- Seat Cowl: Adds to the track-ready appearance of the bike.
- Red-Painted Brembo Calipers: Enhances the bike’s sporty look and potentially improves braking performance.
- Akrapovic Slip-On System: Gives the bike a deeper exhaust note and might slightly increase horsepower.
- Numbered SERT FW Plate: Indicates the limited-edition status of the bike and its association with the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team.
- Welcome Pack: Includes a cap and a T-shirt.
Performance:
The Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition retains the same performance specs as the standard GSX-S1000. It is powered by Suzuki’s 999cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four-cylinder engine, which produces a maximum output of 152 horsepower.
Pricing and Availability:
As a limited release exclusive to the French market, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition commands a premium over the standard model. It is priced at 16,999 Euros ($18,468) in France, which is 3,500 Euros more than the regular GSX-S1000. For reference, the GSX-S1000 retails for $ 11,299 in the U.S. market.
Pros of the Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition:
- Unique and Limited Edition: The Race Edition offers a distinctive colourway and special graphics inspired by the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team. This makes it stand out and appeals to motorcycle enthusiasts who appreciate exclusivity.
- Track-Ready Appearance: The cosmetic upgrades, such as the tidy tail, seat cowl, and red-painted Brembo callipers, give the bike a sportier and more aggressive look. It enhances the visual appeal and gives the impression of a track-focused machine.
- Added Protection: The GB Racing engine and crankcase protectors offers extra protection to vital components during potential impacts or falls. This can provide peace of mind for riders, especially when pushing the bike’s limits on the track.
- Akrapovic Slip-On System: The Akrapovic exhaust system not only adds a deeper exhaust note but can potentially improve the bike’s performance by slightly increasing horsepower. It enhances the overall riding experience and sound of the motorcycle.
- Exclusive Welcome Pack: Including a numbered SERT FW plate and a Welcome Pack with a cap and a T-shirt adds to the ownership experience and makes the purchase feel more special for enthusiasts.
Cons of the Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition:
- Limited Availability: The Race Edition is exclusive to the French market, limiting its availability to potential buyers in other regions. This can disappoint Suzuki fans outside of France who might be interested in owning this special edition.
- Price Premium: The Race Edition comes at a significantly higher price compared to the standard GSX-S1000 model. The additional bolt-on accessories and exclusive livery contribute to the premium, making it more expensive.
- Cosmetic Upgrades Only: While the Race Edition offers various cosmetic enhancements and a performance-boosting Akrapovic slip-on exhaust, it doesn’t introduce any significant mechanical or performance upgrades. The changes are primarily focused on appearance rather than delivering substantial performance enhancements.
- Performance Similar to Standard Model: The Race Edition retains the same performance specifications as the standard GSX-S1000. While the Akrapovic slip-on system might slightly increase horsepower, overall performance remains unchanged. Buyers expecting substantial performance upgrades might be disappointed.
- Limited Edition Challenges: Owning a limited-edition motorcycle can present challenges in maintenance, availability of spare parts, and resale value. Potential buyers need to consider these factors and weigh them against the exclusivity and uniqueness of the Race Edition.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition will depend on personal preference, budget, and the value placed on its exclusive features and cosmetic enhancements.
Conclusion
The Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition is a special limited-edition version of the popular naked sportbike, the GSX-S1000. It features unique cosmetic upgrades inspired by the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team and offers a sportier, more track-ready appearance. While it retains the same performance as the standard model, including an Akrapovic slip-on exhaust system, adds a deeper exhaust note and potentially a slight increase in horsepower.
The Race Edition appeals to motorcycle enthusiasts who value exclusivity and enjoy owning a distinctive machine. The added protection of the engine and crankcase protectors and the exclusive welcome pack further enhance the ownership experience. However, it’s important to note that the Race Edition is limited to the French market, and its higher price compared to the standard model may deter some potential buyers.
Ultimately, purchasing the Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition depends on individual preferences and priorities. Those seeking a unique and visually striking motorcycle, with some track-oriented enhancements may find the Race Edition appealing. However, buyers should consider factors such as limited availability, the price premium, and the primarily cosmetic nature of the upgrades before making a decision.
Le Repaire Des Motards, Moto-Station
