Suzuki Gsx-R600

SUZUKI GSX-R600

Middleground middleweight

After the Suzuki GSX-R600's major redesign in 2006, hopes were high for a class-topping machine from Hamamatsu. But even with increased power, an under-engine exhaust, stacked gearbox shafts and a lighter, more compact frame, the bike still didn't top the field.

Returning unchanged in 2007 means it still isn't an overall con tender for top middleweight honors, but taking another ride reminds us that in a highly competitive class such as this, even midpackers are pretty amazing.

The mass-centralizing redesign for ’06 resulted in a trimmer overall stature, which meant a shorter gas tank and a smaller seat, with not much room between it and the handlebars. It’s a tight fit, but smaller riders won’t need to stretch much to the stubby clip-ons. Close to the tank, the seat is hard and narrow (easing foot-down stops for those of challenged inseam) but better padded and wider farther back.

Around town, this little Gixxer gets the job done nicely. The bike’s low weight and light steering impart confidence, and slicing through traffic delivers a feeling of invincibility because the process is so effortless. Shifting is light and easy, if a little loose-feeling, and the back-torque-limiting clutch makes downshifting smooth, even if you get a little sloppy matching revs to road speed.

Once on winding roads, the GSX-R600 suddenly makes perfect sense. The suspension, which gives a slightly choppy ride on bumpy freeways, is controlled and confidence-inspiring in corners. Precise throttle response at speed helps the rider keep the motor in its sweet spot, making a quick pace easy. The engine pulls very strongly from 7000 rpm to redline, delivering nearly 107 horsepower at peak, with the most torque of the 600cc Fours. The brakes are powerful without being too sensitive.

While the GSX-R’s on-track performance at MasterBike didn’t stand out, the Suzuki offers a satisfying backroad riding experience and the lowest price-well, by $100—of the middleweight supersports. Plus, it outguns the Kawasaki and Yamaha at the strip, and ties with the Triumph for class-fastest. Gabe Ets-Hokin

SUZUKI

GSX-R600

$8899

A Three-position-adjustable footpegs A Smooth motor with great sound effects A Torquiest 600 Downs v Compact riding position will compact taller riders v Very Good in a world of Greats