2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000 K9 Unveiled in Paris

New Gixxer and SV 650 spin-off, the Gladius, make their debut

story by Motorcycle.com Staff, Photograph by Suzuki, Created Sep. 25, 2008

While the European arm of Suzuki is unveiling new models today in Paris, American Suzuki is waiting until next week for the official unveiling of its 2009 fleet. The Gixxer 1000 is the headlining news from Brand S this year, and Suzuki also showed a spin-off of the successful SV650, the Gladius. As always, color choices and pricing will be unique from the Euro bikes, and it's not known for certain if the Gladius will even be seen on these shores. Pete Brissette will bring us a full report from Suzuki's dealer show in Vegas next week

At Suzuki's 2009 model launch held in Paris today, Suzuki unveiled an all-new GSX-R1000 K9 model, alongside the new Gladius 650. The new GSX-R1000 has an all-new compact engine, shorter wheelbase and updated styling.

With significant changes in the engine department, the new GSX-R boasts a more over-square bore and stroke (74.5mm x 57.3mm), larger, titanium valves, a higher compression ratio (now 12.8:1 as opposed to the K8's 12.5:1), and 12-hole fuel injectors, to deliver a finer fuel mist for more complete combustion. All this with a power-plant that is 59mm shorter from front to rear.

And it's not just the engine that's seen the significant changes either, as the all-new chassis should make the GSX-R1000 more agile than before. With the new shorter, twin-spar cast cradle frame, mated to a new longer, arched swing-arm made of three castings, Suzuki says the new bike boasts increased racetrack performance with a wheelbase shortened by 10mm.

Equipped with Showa's new Big Piston Forks (BPF) with endurance race proven design, these, combined with a new rear shock absorber that features high and low-speed compression damping, are designed to offer superb feedback and response with reduced weight too. The new lightweight, race-proven mono-block forged radial calipers, mated to fully-floating 310mm discs offer superb stopping power.

With a unique engine and chassis package, the aggressive aesthetics and rider controls top-off the flagship GSX-R. WIth the unique Suzuki Advanced Exhaust System, featuring low-slung MotoGP inspired titanium exhausts, a lighter, sculptured fuel tank, on-board lap timer and revised Suzuki Drive Mode Selector controls, the new bike offers a complete sports package.

Also unveiled in Paris was Suzuki's all-new Gladius 650. A new naked middleweight model featuring Suzuki's legendary 650cc V-Twin engine, the Gladius boasts unique styling in a user-friendly package.

With a fuel injected, twin plug head engine delivering enhanced performance, combined with great style and neutral lightweight handling, the Gladius is perfect for first time or experienced riders alike.

Related Reading:
2008 Suzuki GSX-R600 Review