Manufacturer | Suzuki |
---|---|
Also called | Gixer Gixxer |
Production | since 1985 |
Class | Sport bike |
Related |
Suzuki GSX-R600 Suzuki GSX-R1000 |
Suzuki GSX-R750 is a family of 750 cc sports motorcycles from Suzuki's GSX-R series of motorcycles. Looking like a Suzuki Endurance racer, it can be considered to be the first affordable, modern racer-replica suitable for road use. It was introduced at the Cologne Motorcycle Show in October 1984.
The air and oil cooled models can be divided into the first generation and second generation, colloquially referred to as 'slabbies' and 'slingshots' respectively. The 1985-1987 models featured very flat bodies compared to modern sport-bikes, hence the term 'slab-sided'. The 1988-1991 (1992 USA) models are sometimes referred to as slingshots because the carburetors introduced in 1988 were marketed as slingshot carburetors (slingshot describes the cross section of the semi-flat slide carbs).
The original model featured a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, flatslide carbs, twin discs with 4-pot calipers, and 460-millimetre (18 in) tyres both front and rear. To save weight, the designers specified an air-and-oil-cooled engine, rather than a water-cooled engine. The seat has separate front and rear sections but from 1986 onwards all models have a one-piece seat.
The 1986 model received a 25 mm longer swing arm to improve the handling. Apart from a modified belly pan and upgraded headlamps there is very little difference between the 1985 and 1986 models. 1986 is the first year the model was introduced to the US.
Racing homologation Limited Edition model, limited production. Including a dry clutch system, alloy tank, solo seat rear section bodywork and Limited Edition graphics, as well as the GSX-R 1100's adjustable anti-dive forks.
The 1987 model received upgraded 41 mm front forks with NEAS (New Electrically Activated Suspension) from the previous year's RR and a steering damper was fitted as standard. The fuel tank capacity was increased to 21 litres.
First major revision. New chassis design, engine revisions and body work. Introduction of a new short-stroke version of the oil-cooled engine, now displacing 748 cc. Engine had 73 mm bore and 44.7 mm stoke and could achieve higher engine speeds (13,000 rpm redline indicated, but rev limiter engaged at 13,500 according to the Suzuki shop manual). Internal engine dimensions changed to accommodate the new bore and stroke. This engine used larger valves and carburetors than previous years. Mikuni model BST36SS 'Slingshot' carbs were 36 mm diameter and featured vacuum operated slides; the slide cross section resembled the shape of a slingshot. A four spring clutch was used on the short stroke motor. New styling, and twin black silencers. Wheels were now a 17-inch (430 mm) diameter, three spoke design and used a 160/60VR17 in the rear and 120/70VR17 in the front. Slingshot graphic first appeared on the bodywork. Forks now used a cartridge design and were 43 mm in diameter. The second generation model was heavier than the first but had a stiffer frame and more power.