5 Key Highlights of the 2026 Suzuki GSX-R1000R
Suzuki stopped selling the GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R in Europe and other markets because it couldn't meet Euro5 emissions regulations. But for a model line with so much historical significance, there was no way Suzuki would simply let the beloved Gixxer Thou disappear. For 2026, Suzuki has come out with an all-new GSX-R1000R, and this time it's legal to be sold everywhere. Here are five interesting nuggets of information on the new GSX-R1000R. For all the details, check out our First Look.
1. Suzuki's the most successful manufacturer in Endurance Championship history
While Suzuki might be absent from MotoGP and World Superbike these days, that doesn't mean the mighty GSX-R is absent from the racing scene. In fact, Suzuki has won more titles in the Endurance World Championship than anyone else, amassing 21 world titles since 1983 — 15 of them on the GSX-R1000.
2. The new engine actually makes less power than before
It's true. The camshafts actually have slightly less overlap than before, which takes away some top-end power.
3. The exhaust is still huge
Believe it or not, the new exhaust on the 2026 GSX-R1000R is actually smaller than the old one — but it's still hard not to notice how big it is.
4. The GSX-R1000R now has winglets
Seemingly every sportbike is required to have winglets now, and Suzuki has graced the new GSX-R1000R with the same winglet design it uses on the prototype GSX-R1000R CN — or Carbon Neutral — it races in the experimental class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
5. Suzuki stepped up its electronics game
Suzuki's big focus was to make the GSX-R1000R more rideable, and it did that by updating the rider aid strategies and software to be more integrated, cohesive, predictable, and smoother.
