2009 Suzuki Dealer Show

You may have already read our First Look announcing the 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000. Now, we've seen the racy-looking machine in person, and we can confirm a price of $12,199. Suzuki claims a bump in power, while weight was reduced by 11 pounds. Edgier bodywork cloaks an all-new engine and frame. Ram-air intakes have been moved closer to the air-cutting edge of the fairing nose. A lighter 43mm Showa Big Piston Front (BPF) fork uses a massive 39.6mm piston inside each leg that eliminates the previous cartridge assembly. Springs are now located at the bottom of the fork. External damping adjustments are indented into the fork caps; spring preload is adjusted at the bottom of the legs. New Tokico monoblock brake calipers are more rigid and weigh less.

Suzuki also confirmed that the Euro-style Gladius will replace the standard, non-faired SV650. More than a cosmetic treatment, the Gladius features a multi-functional digital instrument cluster, a combination cast aluminum/steel trellis frame and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels. Power is provided by the same fuel-injected, dohc, 645cc 90-degree V-Twin that propels current SVs. The Gladius will be available in two colors, both priced at $6499.

Other big news from Suzuki's dealer meeting, held at the Rio in Las Vegas, comes in a small package: the TU250X. Dealers crowded closely around the air-cooled fuel-injected Single and were excited by its small size and classic styling. Those with whom we spoke agreed that the entry-level TU is a step in what they consider to be the right direction. A 30-inch seat height and a claimed 328-pound curb weight are strong attributes, as are the electric starter and five-speed transmission. Look for the $3499 TU in dealerships in March.

Then there's the all-new Boulevard M90. Take Suzuki's popular 1783cc M109R power-cruiser and downsize its displacement to 1462cc. Make it 41 pounds lighter, shorten the wheelbase by an inch, trade the 240mm rear tire for a 200 series, and you have the $9999 M90. In other news, all-weather scooter commuters will be happy to hear that the Burgman 400 can now be had with anti-lock braking for an additional $500. Plus, Suzuki is working on a four-stroke 125 to expand its Burgman line.

Stay tuned.