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2012 Suzuki GSX-R1000 gets lighter, revs faster

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Suzuki has pulled the covers off of its 2012 GSX-R1000, and the bike brings a smattering of mechanical improvements to an already capable platform. All told, the machine is just under 4.5 pounds lighter than last year. Part of that savings comes from specially-developed pistons that are 11 percent lighter than those found in the previous-generation GSX-R1000. Suzuki says the components were developed using technology borrowed from its MotoGP efforts. The same goes for the engine tappets, which are 2.5 grams lighter than the old pieces. The new hardware means that the 2012 GSX-R1000 can use a revised exhaust cam profile for reduced valve overlap.

Engineers also turned up the compression from 12.8:1 to 12.9:1, and a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system caps off engine modifications. Suzuki turned to a set of Brembo Monoblock calipers for 2012 for increased braking performance, as well a lighter wheel and tire combination. Suzuki isn't saying exactly how much horsepower the engine produces with its new internals, nor has the company released any performance specifications, but we imagine improvements all around. Hit the jump for the press release.
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SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2012 GSX-R1000 DETAILS

Suzuki Motor Corporation has today revealed details of its 2012 flagship Superbike – the GSX-R1000, offering enhanced capability thanks to technical innovations that provide heightened engine and chassis performance as well as weight-loss for the new model.

Announced in unison across the world today, the 2012 GSX-R1000 retains its original styling but with a host of revisions all implemented to make this the very best GSX-R1000 ever produced.

Shaving two kilograms from its kerb weight, the new GSX-R features a plethora of updates, incorporating Brembo's highly acclaimed Monoblock calipers for incredible braking and engine revisions that provide even more mid-range power.

Engine technical highlights include the adoption of MotoGP derived finite-element-analysis and fatigue-analysis techniques, which allow for newly developed pistons that are now 11% lighter and aid acceleration and overall performance. This combined with a finer material for engine tappets shaves a further 2.5 grams off per tappet, resulting in optimized valve lift with a revised exhaust cam profile for a slight reduction in valve overlap. Compression ratio also increases from 12.8:1 to 12.9:1.

Along with the utilisation of the Brembo Monoblock calipers, the 2012 GSX-R1000 features further chassis enhancements that offer greater manoeuvrability thanks to a reduction in weight for the front tyre and axle, offering superior unsprung weight advantages. This weight saving is amplified with the return to a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system, further enhanced with a new lightweight titanium silencer also.

With the current GSX-R1000 a proven track performer, narrowly missing out in this year's British Superbike Championship by just 0.006 seconds, and current holder of the Brands Hatch Superbike lap record, the 2012 GSX-R1000, with its detailed update looks set to continue Suzuki's front of the pack performance.

The 2012 GSX-R1000 will make its European debut on the Suzuki stand at the Eicma International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan on 8th November 2011.

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