PICS: Suzuki reveals its GSX-RR 2015 MotoGP bike
Together with the confirmation that Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales will lead its return to MotoGP in 2015, Suzuki has also revealed more details about its bike, which will be known as the GSX-RR.
Suzuki 'suspended' its MotoGP activities due to the financial crisis at the end of 2011 - having won just one race since the switch from 500cc two-strokes to four-strokes in 2002 - but has taken part in official tests for the last two years as it develops a new Inline four-cylinder motorcycle codenamed the XRH-1.
Suzuki's previous MotoGP entry, the GSV-R, was powered by a V4 engine. All MotoGP engines must have four cylinders - Honda and Ducati use a V configuration, while Yamaha has an Inline layout.
"The development of the GSX-RR was started in 2012 with the aim to achieve high performance in the MotoGP class, as well as to give technology feedback to production models such as the GSX-R range," read a statement from the team.
"It utilises a newly-developed in-line four-cylinder engine that realizes a strong, flexible engine character, fuel efficiency, and durability at a high level.
"The frame has a layout that keeps its width slim for both manoeuvrability and aerodynamic performances, and optimizes body strength and weight balance. "The aim was to develop a highly competitive MotoGP machine that can bring out the straightforward manoeuvrability developed over the years with the GSX-R."
As a new manufacturer - defined as entering MotoGP for the first since 2013 - Suzuki will be able to enjoy the same performance concessions as the Open category until 2016, when a control ECU will be mandatory.
The benefits include four litres more race fuel than the normal Factory class, twelve instead of five engine changes during the season, no engine development freeze, a softer rear tyre and greater testing opportunities. The fuel and then tyre benefits can be removed if a certain number of dry top three results are obtained.
Ducati's machines compete under the same regulations, since they also apply to any continuing manufacturer that did not claim a dry win during 2013. Aprilia will be the third factory competing with those benefits, having chosen to return a year earlier than originally planned, in 2015.
Basic specification of the GSX-RR:
Overall length x width x height: 2,096mm x 720mm x 1,140mm. Wheelbase: 1,457mm. Body weight: 160kg (based on FIM regulation). Engine type: Water-cooled, four-stroke in-line four-cylinder, DOHC four-valve. Displacement: 1,000cm3. Maximum output: Over 169kw (230PS). Frame type: Twin-spar aluminum. Tyres (front/rear): 16.5in/16.5in. Front suspension: Ohlins, inverted fork. Rear suspension: Ohlins. Brakes (front/rear): Carbon disk/steel disk, Brembo.
Suzuki's 500cc World Champions:
Barry Sheene (1976 and 1977)
Marco Lucchinelli (1981)
Franco Uncini (1982)
Kevin Schwantz (1993)
Kenny Roberts Jr (2000)
