Suzuki showed off it’s latest in the GSX-R sports bike range at this years Cologne Bike Show. While we reported on the all new GSX-R600 and 750 models recently, details were still not confirmed. Although there are a few styling tweaks the 2011 bikes look very similar to their predecessors, what with the svelte lines and slender seat units, that’s where the similarity ends.
Both versions of Suzuki’s popular sports bike have gone through dramatic weight loss programs, with most of their bulk shaved off the engines, the chassis’s have done their fair share in the gym.
The vertically stacked headlight design ties in to the Gixxer Thou’s look and is a substantial 1.2 lbs lighter. It’s flanked by a quartet of angular intake slots that funnel cool, pressurized air into the airbox and is a nice departure from the now-ubiquitous centrally located ducts. The windscreen is lightly smoked instead of plain clear.
The 2011 GSX-R600 seems to have all the ingredients to vault it to the top end of the 600cc sportbike class, and we’re excited to sample it to find out how well its lighter weight and Brembo brakes work early in the New Year.
This exciting new GSX-R is scheduled to arrive in dealers in February or March for a list price of $11,599. You’ll have your choice of the familiar Suzuki blue and white or a black-and-silver combo.
Specifications
2011 Suzuki GSX-R600
Engine:
Bore Stroke 67.0 mm (2.638 in) x 42.5 mm (1.673 in)
Compression Ratio 12.8 : 1
Engine 599cc (36.5 cu. In), 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC
Fuel System Fuel injection
Ignition Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Lubrication Wet sump
Starter Electric
Chassis:
Colour Blue/White, Blue/Silver
Brakes Front Disc brake, twin
Brakes Rear Disc brake
Curb Weight 196 kg (432 lbs)
Final Drive Chain
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.0 L (4.5/3.7 US/Imp gal)
Ground Clearance 130 mm (5.1 in)
Overall Length 2040 mm (80.3 in)
Overall Width 715 mm (28.1 in)
Seat Height 810 mm (31.9 in)
Suspension Front Inverted, telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Suspension Rear Link type, coil spring, oil damped
Tires Front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless
Tires Rear 180/55ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless
Transmission 6-speed constant mesh
Wheelbase 1400 mm (55.1 in)
Warranty:
Warranty 12 Month unlimited mileage limited warranty