In 2001, Suzuki launched the GSX-R600, a supersport motorcycle in the GSX-R series, developed by the same engineers responsible for the GSX-R750 and GSX-R1000. Compared to the previous model, the new bike was 11 kg (24 lbs) lighter, 25 mm shorter, and 30 mm smaller in height which benefitted from a four percent reduction in aerodynamic drag.
The 2001 model featured a more compact, lighter, and more powerful engine like its GSX-R750 sibling but with more unique parts. Compared to its predecessor, the engine featured a bigger bore for reduced losses at high rpm and a new fuel injection system.
The GSX-R600 featured a new compact twin-spar aluminum frame combined with a bolt-on rear subframe and a 20 mm longer swingarm that placed more weight on the front wheel. The overall weight of the frame was two kg (four lbs) lighter than its predecessor, with a 10 percent increase in torsional rigidity.
In the power department, the 2001 Suzuki GSX-R600 model featured a 599cc four-stroke four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with an output power of 115 hp at 13,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 69 Nm (51 lb-ft) available at 10,800 rpm. The power developed by the engine, combined with a six-speed manual transmission and a dry weight of 163 kg (359 lbs), resulted in a top speed of 263 kph (163 mph).
For suspension, the bike packed a fully adjustable conventional telescopic fork on the front and a fully adjustable piggyback monoshock on the rear.