Barring the updated Hayabusa, Suzuki’s sport bike efforts have been dismal at best in the past few years. The GSX-R1000, in particular, has been in a sorry state since its last major update came way back in 2017. What was once a class leader in the much-competed liter-class segment, currently sits at the bottom of the food chain with dated features and technology.
So it’s safe to say the Gixxer is in dire need of an update, and luckily, the Japanese giant could answer our prayers soon. That’s because 2024 will mark the 40th anniversary of the ‘GSX-R’ moniker–a perfect milestone to debut an updated flagship Gixxer. Plus, the company has also made several filings, subtly hinting at what the future would hold. Here’s everything we know on the matter.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 - Updated Engine
The engine is probably the biggest issue of the GSX-R1000 right now. Yes, 199 horsepower and 87 pound-feet is no joke, but the 999cc, inline-four doesn’t comply with modern norms. To do that, the mill needs an overhaul and Suzuki has a solution. Patent filings reveal a computer-controlled variable valve timing system in place of the all-mechanical system found on the outgoing GSX-R.
Though the latter came from MotoGP, mechanical VVT is not as efficient as the former. An electronic system can alter both valve timing and lift based on the revs and throttle opening. The most obvious example of this is BMW’s ShiftCam found on the S 1000 RR. And we all know where the RR sits in the class.
As for power, we expect Suzuki to breach the 200-horsepower mark and come close to its European counterparts. It’s worth noting no Suzuki sport bike has ever made entered the 200-HP club. Let’s just hope the Japanese giant doesn’t go the Hayabusa way, which actually received a sizable power drop in its latest overhaul.
What might not change much are the underpinnings. The GSX-R’s aluminum twin-spar chassis, coupled with Showa suspension and Brembo brakes, created a strong package at the time. So all Suzuki should do is slap on the new generation of Showa suspension and Brembo calipers. Not that we’d mind any updates to enhance the Gixxer’s riding dynamics, though.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 - Refreshed Electronics
Like the engine, the Gixxer’s electronics are good but dated. In ‘17, the 1000 qualified as cutting edge against its contemporaries, courtesy of three power modes, 10-level traction control, rear lift mitigation, an IMU, and cornering ABS. Fast forward to 2024, these are all features you’d find on middleweight sport bikes like the Aprilia RS 660.
Whereas, the European liter-class superbikes have set new benchmarks in the class. Bits like brake slide control, cornering slide control, and dynamic brake control are the new “cutting edge” and Suzuki simply needs to match these. Luckily, the company has a championship-winning GSX-RR MotoGP bike to take notes from. A new TFT is also on the horizon, likely the same gigantic unit on the GSX-S1000GT.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 - Finally, Aerodynamic Wings!
Picture the 2017 GSX-R1000 in the company of the Honda CBR1000RR-R, Ducati Panigale V4, and the Aprilia RSV4 1100. And what’s the most obvious miss on our ancient Gixxer? Correct, aerodynamic wings. Lucky for us, Suzuki has filed a patent exclusively around the 2024 GSX-R’s aerodynamic package.
The setup comprises a unique fairing design that extends all the way from the headlight to the belly shroud. There are two purposes–one, to improve drag and add downforce, and second, to direct more air toward the radiator. Another noteworthy element is a never-seen-before two-piece disc. This clamps onto the low part of the fork, thus ensuring sufficient air flow to the radiator. Pretty cool, isn’t it?
Last but not least, Suzuki patents (from the past) had also shown a new design language. These appeared reminiscent of the iconic GSX-R K8, albeit refined to match today’s modern times. Though not much is known, we’ll happily trust Suzuki, given how good the new Hayabusa looks.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 - Launch Timeline
If Suzuki indeed has a new Gixxer 1000 for MY24, the most ideal place for its full reveal is the upcoming 2023 EICMA. The bikemaker also showcased its new 800cc lineup there in 2022. Once out, expect the superbike to reach Suzuki USA dealerships soon after with a not-so-small price revision. We expect a near $18,000 MSRP for the base Gixxer 1000 which won’t be too bad a deal, given the abovementioned updates. This would put it right in the ballpark of the $17,299 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and the $18,295 BMW S 1000 RR