Suzuki GSX-R1000

From bullish K1 through legendary K5 to the refined L2, the pre-variable valve Suzuki is a super-safe superbike buy. Here’s how to get yersen a minty Gixxer Thou’, mate…

OIL AND WATER DON’T MIX

All GSX-RS made between 2005 and 2013 were recalled because the front brake master cylinder could have issues. Moisture could get into the system, get absorbed by the brake fluid and make the lever action feel spongy, and there was concern that it might damage the return spring inside the cylinder. Owners of all bikes that were affected should have been contacted by the DVLA and had the problem sorted by a Suzuki dealer for nowt. But it’s worth checking any bike you’re looking at didn’t slip through any cracks, especially if you suspect it’s got a track-based history.

FRONT END FUNNY BUSINESS

Early GSX-RS had a gold titanium-nitride coating on the forks. This fades with use but is purely a cosmetic issue. Bikes from 2003 have a black DLC (diamondlike-carbon) coating that’s more durable. The first GSX-R1000 K1 had Tokico six-pot calipers, which worked well enough and had some wow factor, but they are difficult to maintain and keep operating at their best. Make sure the bike still has the brakes to match its engine. Some owners fit the four-pot calipers from the GSX-R750, which are more consistent and ultimately a tad more powerful. If you’re looking at a bike from 2005, make sure the steering head bearings are as they should be – some weren’t greased correctly and so wear prematurely.

FIND ONE THAT’S BEEN LOVED

Yamaha’s have weak clutches, Ducati electrics are dicky and Suzukis have a flimsy finish. So says the big book of tired old stereotypes. Unfortunately the bit about blue and white bikes can still apply, and the finish on the GSX-R1000 can be a little disappointing. Have a good nose around for paint wearing thin, peeling decals and damage at points where the rider brushes the bike, such as the tail unit and fuel tank. Also make sure the paint isn’t flaking off the wheels. All used GSX-RS will show signs of use but there are oodles to choose from so you can afford to be picky.

FETTLER’S FAVOURITE

GSX-RS do seem to attract more bolt-ons and tweaks than other sportsbikes, so expect to view bikes with aftermarket end-cans or even full systems, and maybe Power Commanders or flashed ECUS. Upgraded suspension is common with reworked forks by specialists such as K-tech and aftermarket rear shocks. And you may even encounter lightweight wheels. Nothing wrong with any of this, but try and suss the seller’s competence and understanding – throwing lots of bits at a bike without clear purpose or intent can often mean handling is worse rather than better. And if you’re looking at a K5 model from 2005 get a stocker, as values for this revered model are soaring, which means money in the bank.

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE NOSING AT

2001-02, K1-K2: 988cc, 140bhp. Based on the GSX-R750Y from 2000 and similar in appearance. Has six-pot front brakes, gold nitrided forks, silver frame, and white wheels on blue and white examples. 2003-04, K3-K4: 988cc, 150bhp. Slimmer, lighter, uprated suspension, with radial brake calipers, black fork sliders and a black frame. 2005-06, K5-K6: 999cc, 160bhp. Complete redesign that’s lighter, sharper, faster but easier to ride – so good that BMW based the S1000RR around it. Easy to spot thanks to its trapezoidal titanium exhaust. 2007-08, K7-K8: 999cc, 162bhp. Tucks and tweaks. End-can now black, three-way mode switch, dazzling white gearshift lamp. 2009-11, K9-L1: 999cc, 162bhp. More midrange and usability, new chassis with curvy swingarm, Showa big-piston forks, twin-can exhaust system. 2012-16, L2-L6: 999cc, 165bhp. Softer suspension, gold Brembo brake calipers, ABS fitted from 2015.

MIGHTY MOTOR

Yes it makes enormous power and attracts enthusiastic riders, but the inline-four engine is also robust. Give the gearbox a good prod, though. Early GSX-R1000S could have gearbox problems – it was more common among race bikes and dedicated trackday tools, but some road bikes suffered as well. Make sure it shifts from first to second cleanly and doesn’t jump out of gear if you crack the throttle on and off. Feel for ‘skipping’ in all the ratios too, as missing teeth aren’t unheard of. Servicing requirements are oil and filter at 4000 miles and a valve clearance inspection at 15,000 miles.

‘Throwing lots of bits at a bike can make handling worse’