A Missile Through Misano Mist
A MISSILE THROUGH MISANO MIST
ROUNDUP
IT SEEMED RATHER ODD TO me that American Suzuki went to such great lengths to bring seven moto-journalists and a photographer to the GSX-R600's press launch at Italy's Misano World Circuit, if only because the bike— though updated in a few key areas—is far from a ground-breaking all-new model. But all was made clear once I learned that the middleweight Gixxer has outsold all other models in Suzuki's stateside lineup, accounting for nearly 40,000 unit sales over the past two years alone. Unfortunately, the weather was not quite so clear during
the scheduled two days of riding at the recently remodeled Misano road course. Heavy fog delayed on-track activities each day, limiting quality track time. Even so, I came away with a good taste of what the GSX-R development team has achieved and can say the future for the bike looks bright.
Not surprisingly, the primary aim of this latest model change was to enhance circuit performance and further the evolution of its styling.
The bike’s 599cc inlineFour has a number of updates that have improved low-to-
midrange torque output without sacrificing peak power. While such a boost will likely lend itself to quicker lap times, street riders will also undoubtedly benefit. Highlighting the list of changes are new throttle bodies promoting higher intake velocity, new primary fuel injectors and a re-contoured combustion chamber that yields a boost in compression from 12.5 to 12.8:1. Add in a revised intake-cam profile and a new exhaust system.
On my first few laps riding in near IFR conditions with beads of moisture rolling off my faceshield, the words of the Japanese test rider who had conducted our circuit briefing replayed in my head: “This course has lots of bumps and is totally slippery.” In other words, this was the perfect opportunity to lap the track at a simulated street pace! Roll-ons from 3000 rpm in any gear revealed no perceptible steps or dips in the power delivery, just a smooth build in power as revs climbed to the 16,000-rpm redline. Suzuki has the calibration of its dual-throttlevalve fuel-injection system really figured out. This 600, as with several other similarly equipped Suzuki models, offers exceptional throttle response and a very good sense of throttle control.
While I don’t feel the new GSX-R quite rivals the midrange grunt of a CBR600RR, it has closed the gap. The fact that it has less engine vibration definitely throws a vote in the Suzuki’s favor on the street, too.
Headed out on cold tires to begin each session was an ideal time for me to utilize what is perhaps the bike’s most interesting new feature: the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector. Like the GSXR1000, the new 600-and forthcoming GSX-R750-is now equipped with a barmounted S-DMS rocker switch that allows a choice of three power-delivery modes that can be changed on the fly. Modes B and C slow the rate and degree to which the ECU-controlled secondary throttle valves open to soften throttle response and reduce power output. While C mode hobbles the mighty middle-
weight to a sorry state that may make for a tight race against an old Ford Pinto, B mode proved beneficial in sketchy conditions.
The last of three 20-minute sessions on the first day offered good visibility and a dry track, allowing me to put the revised chassis to the test. While the main frame and
swingarm are the same, a recalibrated fork and lighter wheels skinned with Bridgestone’s new BT-016 radiais (featuring a dual-compound rear) have raised the level of cornering performance. Steering is light and neutral with the bike eager to go where directed. Stability remains exceptional and rider confidence is further reinforced by an electronically controlled steering damper, another item borrowed from last year’s GSX-R 1000.
Braking at the front is updated with thinner rotors that now have 12 attachment buttons-rather than the previous eight-for improved heat dissipation. A smaller, 1.6mmdiameter master-cylinder piston provided a little more lever travel while increasing power and improving feel when modulating the brakes. A revised ramp profile in the slipper clutch and an additional clutch plate have smoothed backtorque reduction during downshifts.
No doubt the bike’s new “Emotional” styling will be met with just that: Some potential buyers will appreciate the change while others may prefer more traditional shapes and lines. While I leave you to judge the new look for yourself, I can say the fairing and windscreen did a good job cutting through the wind without creating a great deal of buffeting at helmet level. Also, the new headlight should offer a broader beam than the stacked design of the past, not that I could see a difference in the fog.
While further testing will clear the air on exactly where the new Suzuki shines brightest against its peers, bikes will already be in dealers by the time you read this. Can’t wait for hard evidence? You can find safety in numbers knowing there must be a reason the GSX-R600 resides at the very top of Suzuki’s sales chart. -Don Canet
