In 2001, Suzuki launched the GSX-R1000, a supersport motorcycle based on the GSX-R750, which debuted in 2000. It adopted the long-stroke pistons, which meant that the engine featured by the R1000 was virtually unchanged compared to the R750.
The model was named Bike of the Year by the Sport Rider Magazine in 2001 and carried on the racetrack-proven heritage and introduced a new paint scheme in Red and Black, bolt-on bungee hooks, and a sleek-looking polished stainless-steel exhaust.
Instead of the double cradle frame used from the first generation of the R1100, Suzuki packed the 2001 GSX-R1000 with a lightweight and highly rigid twin-spar frame, just like on the R750, which showed that the manufacturer paid close attention to the weight and size dimensions applied to the engine and chassis.
Under the aggressive bodywork, the GSX-R1000 was hiding a monstrous 999cc in-line four-cylinder engine which featured at the time a cutting-edge fuel injection system pumping gas to the piston, which generated a power output of 160 hp at 10,800 rpm and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque available at 8,500 rpm.
The three-spoke cast aluminum wheels packed two 320 mm discs with Tokico six-piston calipers on the front and a single 220 mm disc with a two-piston caliper on the rear, which ensured the stopping power needed.
The 160 hp, combined with six-speed manual transmission and a dry weight of 170 kg (375 lbs), launched the 2001 Suzuki GSX-R1000 to a top speed of 290 kph (180 mph).