Suzuki GSX-10R

The 10R is a new sportsbike that seeks to redefine the latest, next-generation era of supersport machines. Like all Suzukis, it is built on the guiding principles of run, turn, stop, which ensures that all Suzuki models adhere to these fundamentals through proper design, with electronics used to enhance performance, not make up for manufacturing shortcomings.

Built by a team that boasts experience when it comes to both designing race bikes and riding them, the 10R is made for fun and aims to offer a sportsbike for pure enjoyment, whether that enjoyment is found on city streets, b-road blasts, or the racetrack.

Engine
It uses Suzuki’s 152PS inline four-cylinder engine, widely praised for its almost-raw nature, providing a direct, tangible connection between the rider and the rear wheel. Peak power comes in at 11,000rpm. The engine is also known for its broad spread of power, too, with peak torque 106Nm at 9,250rpm.
To ensure its ability to balance performance and reliability, as well as futureproof against the introduction of future alcohol-based fuels, the engine in the 10R features new cams, camshafts, and cam chain sprocket, new cylinder head, barrels, and cases, and new crank journals.

There’s a four-into-one exhaust for a raucous soundtrack, and Suzuki’s Slipper Clutch Assist for light lever action and smoother downshifts.

Chassis
Development of the 10R’s chassis focused on the fun element of its concept. While the GSX-R1000R pursues absolute performance, the 10R is to be enjoyed everywhere from the racetrack to the city.
The main spars of its aluminium frame run in a straight line from steering head to swingarm pivot, delivering agile handling and excellent road-holding. To reduce the moment of inertia by concentrating steering mass, the steering stem offset has been changed from 35mm to 30mm, improving cornering performance. This offset value is more akin to that of the GSX-R1000R, which is 28mm. There’s also a new aluminium swingarm, and new subframe.

The 10R is also similar to the GSX-R1000R when it comes to the ergonomics, and mirrors the superbike’s seat, handlebar, and footpeg triangle, further highlighting its sporting and racetrack prowess.

 
Cast aluminium wheels are shod with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tyres, with a 120/70 R17 front and 190/55 R17 rear. Front brake calipers from Brembo bite 310mm discs, with a radially mounted front brake master cylinder. Suspension is fully adjustable from KYB, with 43mm diameter forks, with new brackets that balance rigidity and weight, inheriting the design philosophy of the GSX-R1000R. The rear shock is newly designed for the 10R.

The fuel tank is 18 litres, and the seat height is 810mm, 15mm lower than the GSX-R to make it more accommodating for a wider range of riders and comfortable in an arrary of riding situations.

Electronics
A comprehensive suite of electronics ensures the 10R performs on track, as well as boasting impeccable road manners. At the heart of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System on the 10R is a six-axis IMU that helps govern an array of systems.

Dubbed Suzuki’s Smart TLRS (traction, lift, roll torque, and slide) Control, there are 10 settings for the rider to choose from. The lower the number of the mode selected, the less the system will intervene.
The roll torque element calculates the bike’s lean angle and speed to predetermine the optimal level of power output. A key benefit of the system is smooth operation and uninterrupted drive, when compared to a simple traction control system that activates after wheelspin is detected.

The slide control function works in tandem with the traction control system. Slide control manages the initial stage of a slide, while traction control steps in with stronger intervention to ensure stability if the slide should become unmanageable. By sharing these roles, the two systems assist the rider in maintaining control as the tyre approaches its grip limit.

Wheelie is managed via the lift control system, which uses data from the engine speed sensor, throttle and gear position, clutch switch, and the IMU

The electronics package also includes three selectable power modes, each reaching the same level of peak power output but with progressively softer mapping. There’s lean angle-sensitive ABS, a bi-directional quickshifter, three additional choices of engine braking settings, cruise control and an active speed limiter, and launch control. A new brake hold system operates on flat ground and downhill slopes as well as inclines. When the bike comes to a complete stop the system uses IMU data and automatically maintains rear brake pressure for 30 seconds, even after the rider releases the brake. This allows for a smooth restart without the risk of the motorcycle rolling backward. The system disengages when the front brake lever is quickly squeezed twice or when the bike accelerates forward.

Suzuki’s easy-start system means one push of the starter is all that is required to fire the engine, and low RPM assist raises the RPM as the clutch lever is released to help prevent stalling and enable a smoother pull away from stationary.

All information is displayed via a compact, full colour TFT screen, which nestles neatly behind the racy fairing and screen and doesn’t compromise the aerodynamic bodywork design. There’s also smartphone connectivity. Using the Suzuki Ride Connect+ app, riders can utilise the system for navigation, incoming notifications, weather updates and other alerts. A USB-C socket is positioned to the side of the dashboard.

Lighting is full LED all round, and a newly developed Suzuki Ground Beacon System more clearly communicates the rider’s intended change of direction, by limiting where the indicators illuminate the ground around the bike.

Styling
Supersport styling boasts hints of GSX-R, including the LED daytime running light design and front air intakes. The cowl design was optimised through repeated wind tunnel testing to balance aesthetics with aerodynamic performance. The front section, including the windscreen, features a rounded profile that accommodates the rider’s helmet when tucked in.

Subtle winglets adorn the fairing and enhance airflow characteristics and there is an angular seat unit.
It will come in a trio of colour schemes: Pearl Vigor Blue and Metallic Mystic Silver, finished with red accents, Pearl Pulse Red and Solid Iron Grey, and an understated Glass Sparkle Black and Metallic Galaxy Grey.