In years gone by everyone wanted to own a super bike; they’re glamorous, sexy and offer, usually, outrageous performance. More importantly you can act like your race heroes seen on TV. However, over the past decade, or so, less of these machines are seen on our roads – so why is that?
Well the ‘finger’ has to be well and truly pointed at large capacity Adventure bikes, right? They do offer far more versatility for sure but do they induce adrenalin into your blood stream more than this very attractive Suzuki GSX-R1000RA for example? Err, NO, is the simple answer!
Yes, it is a pure track-day motorcycle but having mirrors, lights and indicators it is still a street bike, and this is what we wanted to find out – can it be used for daily life (like the good old days)?
After a week or so in my garage I’d have to say yes and the Suzuki GSX-R is, possibly, the best super bike for road use as it doesn’t have such an aggressive riding position compared to the opposition. Yes, you’re still in a racy position but the ‘bars are relatively high and the seat is well padded and surprisingly comfortable and, if you fit the higher screen, wind protection isn’t too bad either.
200hp, 200kg and 117Nm is undoubtedly exhilarating but Suzuki has made their offering tractable throughout the rev-range with the help of their SR-VVT system (variable valve timing). This makes the GSX-R very easy to ride until you ‘unleash hell’ once past 10,000rpm, and then onto 300km/h + if you fancy ‘dry teeth’ as you bite onto your molars. Of course this isn’t recommended on our roads but we do live in South Africa (if you know what I mean?). It also enjoys one of the best quick-shifter’s on the market, and it generates a magnificent sound as the ignition cuts to find the next gear. In fact the engine/air-box noise is an adrenalin breeding ground as the rpm’s rise. I especially enjoyed that attribute.
The GSX-R1000RA is the ‘posh’ version, and more expensive, of the two models on offer. The most noticeable difference is the insertion of high-end Showa forks and rear shock, launch control and a few fancy cosmetic touches. It also looks absolutely gorgeous too in this new 2023 silver/blue colour scheme, don’t you think?
It gives the rider a sense of arrogance and power on the road and does evoke the devil in you if you happen to meet some R5 mill’ super car for example. ‘They’ think they’re quick – compared to this bike, they’re NOT! It’s also fun when you turn off the traction control (10 levels) and pass them on the back wheel, and that’s after you’ve given them a head start. Oh yes the GSX-R1000RA is very good at those mono antics, if that’s your thing. One thing it isn’t particularly good at though is taking a pillion on the back. Unless you’re dating a gymnast of some sort they won’t be too happy about a 100km ride, maybe? Still, I did enjoy taking people out for a quick thrill ride and listening to many profanities that don’t normally come out of their mouths.
So, yes, in my mind super bikes can still offer everyday riding/commuting/shopping in relative comfort (well this one can), and they do make you feel so ‘arrogantly’ cool. This particular model from Suzuki, with all of its fancy components, has an ace up its sleeve and it’s the price. R308,250 is what you’ll need to pay for all of this technology, and that’s less than many big Adventure bikes. No current super bike on the market can offer you more for the price. Maybe even have a visit to your local Suzuki dealer and ask for a test ride – just a thought?
Images: Chris Kuun.
Visit: www.suzukimotorcycle.co.za for more technical information and to book a test ride.