One R or two?

The launch bikes were all the higher spec GSX-R1000R, which costs £16,099 (compared with the £13,249 price of the standard GSX-R1000). The two models share an engine and frame, the biggest difference between them being suspension. In place of the R-bike’s Balance Free units the standard model gets Showa’s Big Piston Forks and a slightly heavier and less sophisticated Showa rear shock.

The GSX-R1000R has LED daytime running lights above its fairing’s air intakes, a lighter triple clamp, lightweight lithium-ion battery and a launch control function that allows racetrack starts with the throttle held open. More usefully, it has the quickshifter (which is an accessory on the standard bike). Both models come in racing blue, with the R also available in gloss black, and the standard bike in red or matt black.