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Suzuki GSX-R1000 - best superbikes

Whatever you do, don’t go out and buy a Suzuki GSX-R1000. Not because it’s terrible. Far from it. The current model, launched in 2012, is a seductive synergy of performance, comfort, legendary reliability and great value at a tad over 11 grand.

It doesn’t have semi-active suspension like its more expensive counterparts, just a manually adjustable version which in a few clicks changes the bike from a fast and stable road machine to a fast and even more stable track racer.

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It doesn’t have ABS or traction control, gizmos are limited to a choice of three rider modes, and its peak power may be a ‘mere’ 182bhp compared to 200-plus monsters which cost several grand more, but it’s delivered with a gnarly snarl and a delicious smoothness is hard to match.

All in all, I really like it. It’s up there with the Honda Fireblade as a bike you can jump on, feel at home with instantly and ride like the clappers from the first corner.

So why am I saying you shouldn’t buy one?

Because the latest Suzuki GSX-R1000 model is out later this year, and it’s going to be even better.

Suzuki says it’s going to be the lightest, most powerful and best handling GSX-R it’s ever built, with a completely new engine and aluminium chassis, and compared to the relatively low-tech current model, a host of gizmos including multiple traction control and rider modes, ABS, ride-by-wire throttle and quickshifter for both up and down clutchless gearchanges.

Even better, the top of the range version with all of that is going to be around £13,000, with rumours of a more basic version for £11,500.

Mind you, having said all that, if money’s tight, now might be just the time to pick up a bargain outgoing model…

Best superbikes

  1. 1. Ducati 1299 Panigale S
  2. 2. BMW S1000RR
  3. 3. Honda Fireblade
  4. 4. Kawasaki ZX-10R Ninja
  5. 5. Yamaha YZF-R1
  6. 6. Aprilia RSV4 RF
  7. 7. MV Agusta F4
  8. 8. Suzuki GSX-R1000
  9. 9. KTM 1290 Superduke R
  10. 10. Kawasaki Ninja H2
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