Suzuki revives its GSX-R1000R on the 40th anniversary of one of motorcycling's most iconic sagas.

The history of the legendary GSX-R series began in 1985 with Suzuki's launch of the revolutionary GSX-R750R , a bike that changed the standards and the way we understood sports bikes. In 2001, the GSX-R1000 and subsequent R versions came onto the market, writing one of the most successful chapters in the industry and in competition, as they racked up titles and victories all over the world, including no less than 15 FIM Endurance World Championships.

The last of the GSX-R1000, the 2017 model with Euro 4 homologation, ceased to be sold in the European market at the end of 2020, following the entry into force of Euro 5. Now, coinciding with the fortieth anniversary of the GSX-R family, the Japanese firm presents a renewed 2026 GSX-R1000R.

It is powered by the now legendary 999.8 cc DOHC inline four-cylinder engine, which has been extensively revised to increase efficiency: it delivers a maximum power of 195 hp at 13,200 rpm and torque of 110 Nm at 11,000 rpm. Every component has been optimized: lighter forged pistons, a new timing chain, new 8-hole injectors, and a more compact titanium exhaust, which not only meet Euro 5+ standards but also improve overall performance and reliability in extreme conditions. The compression ratio has been increased to 13.8:1, and the intake and exhaust flow have been redesigned for a more refined response throughout the rev range.

It also features advanced electronics coordinated by a latest-generation IMU unit , and which includes Ride-by-wire, three engine maps, STCS traction control with 10 levels and disconnectable, front wheel lift limiter under acceleration and roll torque control, which analyze data in real time from the IMU unit, bidirectional Quickshifter, control of exit (Launch Control) and braking in curves (Motion Track Brake System), as well as adaptive ABS on slopes, assistance at low revolutions and Easy Start system for effortless starts.

As for the chassis, the twin-spar aluminum frame has been redesigned, the swingarm reinforced, and it features a lightweight aluminum subframe and an electronically adjustable steering damper.

It sports six-spoke cast aluminum wheels shod with Bridgestone Battlax Racing Street RS11 tires, and, in the braking department, it has four-piston Brembo monobloc calipers with 320 mm floating discs at the front and a 220 mm disc at the rear.

The design of the new 2026 GSX-R1000R features aggressive, wind-tunnel-refined bodywork to optimize aerodynamics , reduce drag, and enhance the rider's on-track position. As a new feature, Suzuki is offering optional winglets inspired by those used on its endurance bike for the 2024 Suzuka 8 Hours race.

To mark the 40th anniversary, Suzuki has created three exclusive color combinations reminiscent of the GSX-R's historic liveries: Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Tech White; Daring Candy Red/Pearl Tech White; and Pearl Ignite Yellow/Stellar Blue Matte.

These colors are complemented by exclusive, custom graphics and decals, 40th anniversary logos on the tank, seat, and muffler , and a special commemorative key.

Suzuki's press department insists that "the 2026 GSX-R1000R is not a simple evolution. It is the result of decades of experience, engineering and passion for motorcycles. A superbike with a racing soul, homologated for the street, equipped for the track and designed to deliver pure sensations with every turn of the grip. With its motto - 'Designed to perform, built to excite' - Suzuki not only pays tribute to one of the most iconic sagas in motorcycling, but also sends a clear message: the GSX-R is still alive, faster, more technological and exciting than ever."