Suzuki GSR600

It looks great, so bold that we can only congratulate Suzuki's designers on the successful combination of sportiness and raw brutality that it unashamedly displays with its "muscular" lines of the GSR 600. But looks are not all that it has.

Its in-line four-cylinder engine with a sporty sound of steam under the tailpipes is capable of developing 98 horsepower, which is well supported by torque at the right moments of acceleration. The engine pulls so quietly and completely from low revs to 10.000 when it releases all of its power. At the time, it shows an affinity with the sporty brother of the GSX-R 600. It is capable of developing an additional 26 horsepower, which is hidden at the very peak of the increase in power, but at the expense of a smooth ride and flexibility in the mid and low rpm range. Thus, the real usable range is 4.000 to 6.000 rpm.

At that time, it is very easy to drive on the country winding road, where this Suzuki uses the most (well, also in the city because of the ease and the phenomenon itself is not worse). Its fork-like frame geometry and a stiff, but not overly soft suspension allow it to obediently and effortlessly follow commands from behind the wheel. Only serious throttle and aggressive driving show that the standard suspension is too soft, which is thankfully not an insurmountable problem. The GSR has an adjustable suspension and you can customize it to suit your driving style, and above all it's a useful feature when you hop on it with a passenger (he will sit quite comfortably).

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the brakes. They grip gently and require a stronger grip on the fingers. It is known here that the GSR was intended for a wider range of motorcyclists, including less experienced riders. It's the perfect brake for them, but not for the fast-paced driver. For all of you who enjoy taking a longer tour safe and sound, we can also say that the ride in this Suzuki is surprisingly tireless. He sits upright and relaxed enough, and drivers of small to medium height, not exceeding 185 centimeters, will sit best. Despite the fact that it does not have protection from the wind, its frontal silhouette cuts the air surprisingly well and at a speed of up to 130 kilometers per hour the headwind does not tire at all.

All this testifies to the success of Suzuki's Plan B. Or is it really Plan A and B-King with 200 horses yet to come? But that's a story for next year.

text: Petr Kavchich

photo: Алеш Павлетич