2021 Suzuki GSX-R1000R Review | MC Commute

Suzuki pairs value, versatility, and performance in the liter-sized superbike segment with its 2021 Suzuki GSX-R1000R ($17,749). This up-spec GSX-R benefits from upgraded suspenders, a slick-shifting electronic quickshifter, and a couple of other worthwhile upgrades that make it more competent on and off track.

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When it comes to outright street-riding comfort, few sportbikes ride as well as Suzuki GSX-Rs. And that trend continues with its 1000R. It’s a very slim motorcycle—especially for an inline-four. The seat is well supported and the reach to the clip-on style controls isn’t too aggressive. We like the position of the rider’s footpegs, which are neither too high, nor too low. It would be nice if this GSX-R had foot control adjustment like its GSX-R600 and 750 duo. One change we bemoan is its 0.4-gallon-smaller 4.2-gallon fuel tank.

Tap the starter button and the GSX-R fires to life with a unique growl. Despite employing a conventional inline-four firing order, the engine offers signature character unlike others in its class. We especially appreciate its meaty intake roar and whiny, high-tech-sounding exhaust note. Suzuki offers an ingenious variable valve timing solution that helps give its four-cylinder the best of both worlds.

Peppy bottom-end bark morphs into thick car-passing midrange oomph. Top-end power is strong too, but not quite as powerful as competitors in its class. Still, it’s got enough giddyap to get the blood pumping. We’d estimate a horsepower figure in the mid-160s at the 190-series Bridgestone Battlax RS11 tire. Fuel-mileage-wise, we measured an average of 36 mpg.

An early leader in sportbike electronics (the ’97 GSX-R750 was the first Japanese sportbike with fuel injection), this GSX-R retains its S-DMS adjustable power mode setup. Ride-by-wire throttle integration affords throttle control adjustment that’s neatly integrated into each power mode. Full-power mode A was our favorite.

Ten-way-adjustable IMU-powered traction control is also present, however its programming feels more rudimentary compared to other contemporary setups from Japan and Europe. The 1000R also adds launch control to its arsenal, but we didn’t test it this time. Wheelie and engine-brake control are absent from its electronics suite, as is cruise control. Heated grips would be a nice upgrade too considering how roadworthy this Gixxer is.

The slick-shifting up-and-down electronic quickshifter, on the other hand, performs splendidly allowing you to row through the six-speed gearbox instantly.

In terms of agility, the 445-pound GSX-R1000R impresses with its maneuverability. It steers more sharply than its predecessor while still offering a high degree of stability. Equally impressive is the lofty level of rear grip that the chassis affords. The upgraded Balance Free suspension components follow the road more accurately than the older hardware on the basic GSX-R. Still, the front end isn’t as magical feeling as Team Green’s offering (employs similar front suspension).

The R model’s stainless steel front brake lines are a much-needed improvement and help mitigate brake fade—a feature that has plagued Suzuki GSX-Rs. We also appreciate the rear brake’s strong, responsive feel. Full-time ABS with cornering functionality mitigates instability during braking.

A bright LED headlamp throws a deep spread of light during night rides. The R’s LED positioning lights are also a nice touch. However, because it employs an IMU, we wish Suzuki added a cornering light function to boost visibility during fast-paced night rides through curvy stretches of road. Keeping tabs on vehicle settings is a 5.5-inch backlit LCD. Despite being only one color, the display is functional and easy to read day and night. However, the display could be larger.

Despite not employing a truly modern electronics package, the GSX-R1000R continues to be one of our favorites due to its versatility and ease of use. We’re big fans of its punchy powertrain and capable chassis that’s as adept on track as it is off of it. Considering its competitive price tag and fine craftsmanship, there’s no doubt Suzuki drives a hard bargain with its GSX-R1000R.

Photography: Joseph Agustin

Video/edit: @AdamWaheed

Motorcycle Riding Gear Worn

Jacket: REV’IT! Hudson -
Pant: REV’IT! Austin

[beavistown]

This dude speaks in 12 point times new Roman font

[Hatchi]

Waheed is still the best, most comprehensive, least bullshit, and this bike is right up his street.
Cheers for continuing to make great bikes Suzuki.

[rparker]

So refreshing to see a no bs video. No fluff, just straight to the facts and everything I wanted to know 👍🏻

[jmrandall]

Exhaust companies are absolutely loving this

[mikeism]

I'm loving my 2018 gsxr 1000r in white. Going to ride for the first time this year tomorrow to work. Never looked forward to going to work as much as now. I've been a long time Suzuki gsxr guy. Ever since 1996.

[rynev]

Suzuki needs to redesign the 600/750 more like this bike, it’s long overdue

[ApexMotow]

I suppose the 160hp Waheed mentions is wheel because this is listed at 202hp crank.
Always has valuable, high quality reviews

[digitalorgy]

This particular bike is the one I have exactly. I have put 2000 miles on it in 2 months I ride :). M4 exhaust undertail, flush signals, rear integrated taillight signals. I love
This bike I’m used to 750s and this is only 40 lbs heavier with All the power you want and handles like it’s on rails and power all over the curve. I ride this daily on A mode . Thinking of starting a channel on this bike let me know what you guys think ;)

[leanit]

Ah! You left out the lower mountain from your footage... that is some the best part of that ride.

[CobraCommanderX]

@17:52 lol best part of the video, waheed definitely knows how riders feel about green lights

[keithewen]

The last of the ultimate superbikes
😍

[saltire]

Those flashers are old school in Europe the bike comes with nice small Led ones .The exhaust is lovley ha ha ha but im sure you can order one with a Yoshi from the factory.I love my 2020 model but the dash could have been colour and cruise contol would also have been nice .I traded my Yam mt10sp in for the gixxer and no regrets the mt was like a tractor compaired to this bike .

[StefanEtienneTheVerrgeRep]

If that exhaust gets any bigger, I'm going to have to pay rent for it.

[محمدمهدیمحمدی-هه]

Legendary bike;really fast really powerfull and fantastice handling...

[ragerider]

Great review. I know it's not the best bike but I just can't help loving the GSXR. If I was going to get a thousand, it would be this. The can doesn't bother me as like most people I'd ditch it straight away & the dash isn't a problem either as I prefer clocks so TFT or LCD is the same difference to me.

[NotoriousRR]

I jus love the 600 and 750 for street and twistys .but i love this 2022 gsxr1000 would i be dine on the 10000 or thibk its not good in twistys i kno the cbr1000rr is so light ...and the ride modes are they like C is 600 B 750 and A 1000?

[billvick]

I like Adam's reviews. They're very complete and informative. Camera angle is so important in making the video part watchable and too often here, the camera is too low. Especially as he works a curvy section 3/4 of the way through this one.

[weisswurstfruhstuck]

Does the Kawasaki zx10r and zx6r have the turning headlights ?! 🧐

[SystemAdministrator]

Give it a Color display !
Come on Suzuki !

[branislavzubic]

Euro/Australia model has small led turn signals from factory