Which Suzuki GSX-R is Right for Me?


One decision which confronts almost every Suzuki GS-R buyer is the particular model they should go with. Lets go through all three models and break them down.

The GSX-R1000. It offers the most power, and is also the most expensive. Even with all this power, the 1000 stills weighs in at well under 400 pounds. Sounds like a win-win, it should be the obvious choice, right?

Well, no. For one thing, having a bike this powerful requires a skilled rider. In the hands of an inexperienced rider, it's possible for the 1000 to overwhelm the user. Another thing you might want to factor in is the cost of insurance. I talked to rider in his 20s and he told me he decided to go with the 750 after discovering that the cost to insure a 1000 was 800 bucks more per year!

Now if you're an older driver, perhaps the price discrepancy won't be as large. Contact your insurance company and find out if there's a sizable premium for the 1000.

The 750, you can say is the best compromise between the 1000 and 600. A good deal of power and the excellent GSX-R handling. For those on the fence, this is a great compromise. Some say compromise is bad word, but in this case, you're getting a GSX-R750! How bad can that be?

The GSX-R600 is great beginners bike. I don't mean that in a bad way. I don't want to confuse this bike with a pseudo entry level sport bikes that manufacturers try to push on customers who just got their motorcycle license.

The 600 is a genuine GSX-R and should please beginners as well as veterans who want to a true sportbike experience. In terms of engine, it's smallest GSX-R. In terms of weight, it's also the lightest. I think the 600 is the perfect bike for someone who wants a serious, genuine entry-level sportbike and not some standard bike disguised in tacky body work that looks completely out of place.

On a related topic, I heard from a user who recently moved from a "beginner's bike" to a GSX-R750. They found the GSX-R750 to be much more user friendly when compared to his beginner's bike. This person said the GSX-R essentially drove itself and made him feel more confident while on the road. So if you're an adventurous beginner, a 750 could very well be a viable choice.

Whether you want a full blown 1000cc superbike or a lighter 600cc model, Suzuki has a GSX-R model for you. Still brain locked? Just go with the 750. I don't think you'll be disappointed.