Eight years after the last major update for the much admired Gixer 1000, Suzuki have lifted the lid on a new 2026 GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary edition. Here are the details...
The GSX-R name needs no introduction. For four decades, it’s been the defining badge of Suzuki performance and motorsport heritage. And now, in a move that stirs both nostalgia and anticipation, Suzuki has pulled the covers off the 2026 GSX-R1000R. Press: Suzuki
At BikeReview.com.au, we’ve lived and breathed the GSX-R legacy for years, and we’re currently restoring our original 1985 GSX-R750 (pic below) to celebrate its 40th anniversary. So you can imagine the buzz when we got hold of the full technical details of the latest flagship. We’ve also built numerous GSX-R750 and 1000 projects over the years with Suzuki Motorcycles Australia.
Make no mistake – this is not an incremental update. Suzuki has gone back to the drawing board to develop a completely revised powertrain, updated chassis, aerodynamics, and electronics package, while retaining the soul of what has made the GSX-R such a fan and racer favourite since day one.
Read our previous model GSX-R1000R review here…
First launched in 2001, the GSX-R1000 has built a global reputation for its relentless speed, reliability and handling, claiming 15 FIM Endurance World Championship titles and becoming a firm favourite among racers and road riders alike. Now, for 2025, Suzuki commemorates that legacy with a modernised model featuring three stunning anniversary liveries pictured below…
The three stunning liveries of the 40th Anniversary edition GSX-R1000R on show. We can’t go past blue and white.
Meeting Euro 5+ regulations without sacrificing much performance, still making 143.5kW@13,200rpm
and 110Nm@11,000rpm, the updated GSX-R1000R is said to be as capable on the street as it is on the racetrack. It retains the core GSX-R philosophy: “Designed to Perform, Built to Thrill.” Riders can expect the same character and razor-sharp handling that has defined the nameplate for four decades…
Being able to meet Euro5 without losing too much peak horsepower is a huge achievement by Suzuki.
Suzuki engineers faced the dual challenge of maintaining performance while meeting modern emissions and noise standards. Thanks to detailed internal revisions and advanced tuning, the 2025 GSX-R1000R remains true to its roots – a pure sportbike built for speed, precision and control.
The model is massive news in Europe, where some countries had banned the GSX-R1000 from the roads for a few years now due to emissions.
The new GSX-R1000R comes in three striking 40th Anniversary colour schemes, inspired by iconic liveries from the model’s rich racing past. Each special edition features exclusive 40th Anniversary graphics on the fuel tank, fairings, muffler, seat and even the key, giving fans a genuine collector’s piece with everyday usability.
Although it remains fundamentally built around the 2017 model, the new Gixer is very heavily updated.
Performance remains a top priority, with revised electronics enhancing control and rider confidence. Optimised for both the road and the racetrack, Suzuki say the GSX-R1000R delivers the perfect balance of power, braking and cornering performance – a combination that has seen the GSX-R remain a competitive force in world endurance and superbike racing for over 20 years.
With this anniversary model, Suzuki not only honours the legacy of the GSX-R family, but also looks to the future, keeping its crown as “The King of Sportbikes”. Stay tuned for local availability (Mid 2026) and pricing from Suzuki Motorcycles Australia.
DETAILED UPDATES
Engine Features
High-performance 999.8cm³ four-stroke liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four engine.
Simple, compact SR-VVT (Suzuki Racing Variable Valve Timing) system enhances top-end performance.
Suzuki Racing Finger Follower valve train improves valve control and allows higher rpm.
Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) supports smooth shifting and lighter clutch operation.
REVISED Primary fuel injectors now have eight holes (reduced from ten), and fuel pump pressure increased for better atomisation.
REVISED Cylinder head design as well as both intake and exhaust ports modified for higher efficiency.
REVISED Head gasket redesigned to improve sealing and durability.
REVISED Piston crowns reshaped to raise compression ratio from 13.2:1 to 13.8:1 and accommodate larger valves. The rib shape beneath the pistons was modified to reduce weight and improve durability. Stronger piston circlips improve reliability under high load.
NEW Wider cam chain reduces friction power loss.
NEW Intermittent camshaft lubrication improves oil flow efficiency.
NEW Single-stage funnel design (#1 & #4 cylinders) enhances top-end performance.
NEW Thicker crankshaft journals and revised crankcase handle increased engine loads.
NEW Slimmer muffler design in updated exhaust system improves aesthetics and sound tuning.
Chassis Features
NEW (Optional Accessory) Winglets on the front cowling are available to generate aerodynamic downforce.
Front brake lever tip is slotted to reduce wind drag at high speed.
Compact, lightweight chassis offers agile handling and confident control.
Twin-spar aluminium frame delivers race-proven rigidity and performance.
Rigid, race-inspired aluminium swingarm improves high-speed cornering stability.
Bolt-on aluminium rear subframe ensures strength with minimal weight.
Lightweight 6-spoke cast aluminium wheels improve handling response.
Bridgestone BATTLAX Racing Street RS11 tyres provide superior grip and durability.
Brembo radial-mount mono-block front callipers with 320mm Brembo T-Drive discs and 220mm rear disc offer strong, stable braking.
Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.)
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) offers three throttle response modes for different riding conditions.
NEW Smart TLR Control integrates Traction Control and now includes Lift Limiter, and Roll Torque Control for added safety and precision.
UPDATED Launch control has also been updated to further improve its control scheme.
Ride-by-wire throttle enables refined control and response.
Racing-style bi-directional quick shifter allows clutch-less up/down gear changes. Reverse pattern setup compatible.
Motion Track Brake System helps maintain line stability during corner braking.
Slope Dependent Control adjusts ABS for downhill braking stability.
Suzuki Easy Start System enables engine start with a single button press (no clutch pull required in neutral).
Low RPM Assist improves smooth starts in stop-and-go riding.
Electric Equipment
NEW Lightweight lithium-ion battery (HYbattEliiy P-series) improves voltage stability and reduces overall weight. Developed and manufactured by Eliiy Power in Japan.
LCD multifunction display provides a clear, race-style information layout.
Compact LED headlight contributes to sleek front-end styling.
LED tail/brake light features a sharp vertical design.
Bright LED indicators complete the premium lighting package.
Styling
Aerodynamically efficient, narrow bodywork improves top-speed stability.
Sculpted fuel tank enables an easy rider tuck position for racing.
Central SRAD intakes maximise airflow to the engine.
REVISED Titanium muffler features a shot-blasted finish for a more refined appearance.
NEW 40th Anniversary Edition comes in three retro-inspired liveries.
NEW Anniversary logos appear on the tank.
NEW Anniversary logos appear on the fairing.
NEW Anniversary logos appear on the muffler.
NEW Anniversary logos appear on the seat.
NEW Anniversary logos appear on the key mascot.
NEW Heritage-style stripes and decals celebrate the GSX-R’s iconic racing lineage.
2026 Suzuki GSX-R1000R Specifications
Price: TBC
Colours: 40th Anniversary Blue, Yellow or Red
Claimed power: 143.5kW@13,200rpm
Claimed torque: 110Nm@11,000rpm
Wet weight: 203kg
Fuel capacity: 16L
Fuel Consumption (Claimed): 14.7km/L
Engine: Euro5, four-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC VVT, 999.8cc
Bore x Stroke: 76 x 55.1mm Compression Ratio: 13.8:1, Fuel Injected, RidebyWire throttle,
Gearbox: Six speed with bi-directional quick-shifter, Clutch: Wet multiplate slipper
Chassis: Twin-spar aluminium frame, braced alloy swingarm
Rake: 23 degrees, Trail: 95mm
Suspension: SHOWA SFF USD forks, SHOWA link-type rear suspension, 150mm travel each end.
Brakes: four-piston Brembo mono-block front brake calipers 310mm floating-mount dual rotors, single rear rotor Wheels & Tyres: 17in cast six-spoke aluminium wheels, 120/70-17 – 190/50-17 Bridgestone BATTLAX RACING STREET RS11 tyres.
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1470mm
Seat height: 845mm
Overall length: 2150mm
Height: 1350mm
Width: 925mm
Instruments & Electronics: LCD dash, LED Lights, two-way quick-shifter, Suzuki easy start system, Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS), SDMS, ABS.
2026 Suzuki GSX-R1000R 40th Anniversary Edition Gallery
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