Suzuki Motorcycles have developed a radar reflector, not to detect or jam a police speed radar, but to make motorcycles easier for hi-tech cars to detect them.
In fact, the radar reflector could make motorcycles easier for police to detect with radar guns!
Suzuki have filed a patent in Japan for the radar reflector.
There is no word yet from Suzuki about whether they will make or fit the reflectors to their motorcycles.
The reflectors would react with various automotive collision avoidance systems such as blind spot alert, as well as the coming wave of autonomous vehicles.
Radar reflector
The Suzuki patent might help address the valid concern that autonomous vehicles and various collision avoidance systems have difficulty detecting vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians.
While cyclists and pedestrians may not be able to carry radar reflectors, they could easily be included on a motorcycle.
But it’s yet another piece of technology that creates extra expense and puts the emphasis on motorists trusting technology rather than their own crash-avoidance skills.
Suzuki has lodged patents drawings that suggest a retro cafe racer model with a trellis frame and single-cylinder engine to catch up with other manufacturers plundering this lucrative sector.
While most manufacturers have retro models such as cafe racers and scramblers, Suzuki only has the reincarnated Katana and the lovely, but too-small TU250X.
Customiser have mainly used old GS Suzuki models to create retro cafe racers. Maybe Suzuki has been watching and now plans to follow their lead.
Retro cafe racer drawings
The patent drawings show a very basic motorcycle with a trellis frame that would make it much easier to customise which many retro buyers seem to do.
On top is very short seat and no tail which would obviously never make it to market. Let’s just say it’s unfinished, but certainly a target that some customisers would aim for.
The tank looks very neo-classic with its knee indents and retro lines with a flattish top.
It seems to have a nice short wheel base, steep rake in the forks and rearset footpegs, indicating a cafe racer stance.
There are no handlebars yet, but we would assume it would take clip-ons.
The compact engine is a single-cylinder unit. The patent description talks about “a crankcase, a cylinder and a cylinder head”.
Perhaps it would be around 400cc, vying for that novice market that wants a good balance in a light bike with moderate power.
So it’s not a high-powered cafe racer as the single disc on the front would also suggest.
Of particular interest is the header pipe which curls around before heading down the right side, probably ending at a stubby muffler since it is not visible beyond the engine.
New to Suzuki is the triangular swingarm. It looks quite bulky and sturdy for a bike that looks to be fairly light.
The rear suspension is not visible, so we suspect it is a lateral single shock tucked up behind the engine.
But don;’t get too excited yet.
Patent drawings don’t necessarily end up being complete new models.
It might simply be an exercise in securing the patent some of these elements.
Would you like Suzuki to produce a retro cafe racer? Leave your comments below.
It cost $16,690 ride away, but it is now being offered at $15,490 ride away in two new colours: Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Black (Z-model).
GSX-S1000 updates
The GSX-S1000 is powered by a GSX-R1000 engine “tuned for the streets with a fatter and meatier bottom-to-mid”.
Peak power has increased from the previous model’s 107kW (145ps) to 110kW (150ps) and maximum torque has increased from 106Nm to 108Nm.
The improved performance is thanks to newly added crankcase ventilation holes which reduce pumping losses and comply with Euro 4 emissions regulations.
A back-torque-limiting clutch has been added to contribute to smoother downshifts and corner entry.
Brembo monobloc calipers are the same specification as on the GSX-R1000R with four opposed 32mm piston callipers and 310mm floating-mount discs and ABS.
The front brake hose has been updated for claimed improvements in initial stopping performance and feeling.
It has 43mm KYB inverted forks with fully adjustable compression, rebound damping and spring preload. The single KYB rear shock features adjustable rebound damping and spring preload.
The lightweight LCD instrument cluster includes speedometer, tachometer, odometer, dual tripmeters, gear position, coolant temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, traction control, and a clock.
The white backlight provides night-time visibility and features six different rpm display settings.
It comes withSuzuki’s two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Derived from Suzuki’s popular GSX-R litre-bike, the GSX-S1000 offers a street focused nakedbike package, with iconic styling and a host of technology, with 2019 models arriving next month in new colour schemes – Metallic Triton Blue and Metallic Matte Black (Z-model).
Powered by a modernised version of the same long-stroke engine that drove the legendary K5 GSX-R1000, the GSX-S1000 is tuned for the streets with a fatter bottom-to-mid while still retaining a stonking top-end, and the in-line four-cylinder boasts 110kW power and 108Nm of torque. A back-torque-limiting clutch also contributes to smoother downshifts, through the six-speed gearbox.
High-end Brembo monobloc calipers are the same specification as those featured on the GSX-R1000R. The calipers each have four opposed 32mm pistons acting on a 310mm floating-mount disc for strong stopping power. The antilock braking system (ABS) helps the rider stay in directional control even during hard braking.
43mm KYB inverted front forks provide a sporty yet plush ride. Featuring fully adjustable compression and rebound damping as well as spring preload. A single KYB rear shock features adjustable rebound damping and spring preload.
A lightweight LCD instrument cluster provides a wealth of information to the rider. Readouts include speedometer, tachometer, odometer, dual tripmeters, gear position, coolant temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, traction control, and a clock. The white backlight gives great night-time visibility and also features 6 different rpm display settings.
The 2019 Suzuki GSX-S1000 will be available in March for a special promotion price of $15,490 Ride Away under the “Own The Street” campaign and is backed by Suzuki’s two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
For further information on the GSX-S1000 and the rest of the GSX-S street sports range, interested customers should visit their local Suzuki dealer, who can be found through the Dealer Locator on www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au (link).
Motorcycle Racing is expensive whether pursued as a hobby or professionally. Costs for motorcycles, parts, crash repairs, fees and transportation all add up to a substantial amount. Thankfully Suzuki is offering assistance to riders that choose to compete on their machinery and have extended their support for competing Suzuki riders, with Suzuki Australia just announcing the continuation of its Suzuki Support Rider (SSR) Contingency program for 2019.
SSR provides motorcycle racers with results based rewards in national based competitions; including MX Nationals and Australian Supercross championships in MX1, MX2 and MXD categories. In road racing the Australian Superbike Championships (ASBK) and Supersport Championship. Some state based championship title wins across both road racing and motocross are also eligible for contingency money.
The SSR contingency is also available to Motorcycling Australia recognised state motocross and road racing, premier class championships.
Registration to the SSR Contingency program is free, and riders are welcome to register various machines in different capacity classes.
Only riders who compete on current generation Suzuki motorcycles are eligible to register for the contingency program Suzuki offer. Registration is restricted to one rider per motorcycle VIN.
Once you have registered for SSR, Suzuki will confirm your acceptance via a letter that will be mailed to you, which includes your SSR Registration Number. One number will be issued per rider, even if the rider competes on several motorcycles in multiple classes. Your Registration Number will be used in all claims for contingency or any other communication with Suzuki.
Only the nominated M.A. sanctioned events will qualify for contingency. Riders registered Results will be verified by Suzuki against official M.A. results.
Contingency payments will only be made to riders who satisfy the following criteria:
2019 Suzuki Support Rider Contingency Program
Compete on current generation RM-Z250, RM-Z450, GSX-R600 or GSX-R1000/R.
Registered for SSR and have received acceptance including their Registration Number from Suzuki Australia.
Lodge a claim form within 7 days of the event to Suzuki Australia including their race support number. Suzuki will verify through official race M.A results
The 2019 GSX-S750 comes in a new Metallic Triton Blue or Metallic Matte Black colour options, with a special pricing offer available as part of their “Own The Street” campaign, making the GSX-S750 available for $11,990 Ride Away.
The GSX-S750 is powered by a supersport engine, with the GSX-R derived 749cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled in-line four cylinder powerplant and has been optimised and refined for the street; with a maximum power output of 112hp (84kW) at 10,500rpm with 81Nm of torque at 9000rpm.
Press the one-touch starter button and hear the induction noise emanate from deep within the acoustically tuned airbox. The 4-2-1 exhaust features equaliser pipes which contribute to stronger low-to-mid range output and produce a raspy exhaust note.
Tapered aluminium handlebars grace the cockpit, along with blacked-out levers and clean switch blocks. The lightweight LCD instrument cluster communicates a wealth of information to the rider including speed, rpm, traction control status, gear position, odometer, dual tripmeters, coolant temperature, driving range, fuel consumption, and the time. The rider even has the ability to personalise the tachometer readout from a choice of five display patterns.
Braking duties are well up to the task with a set of Nissin radial mounted four-piston opposed front calipers, clamping 310mm floating, petal-type front discs. The lightweight and compact ABS is also from Nissin.
Suzuki’s advanced Traction Control System provides greater confidence and reduces fatigue by delivering control over engine output that helps prevent rear wheelspin. The rider can select one of three modes or turn the system off altogether using the convenient handlebar switch.
The 2019 Suzuki GSX-S750 is available for a special offer price of $11,990 Ride Away under the “Own The Street” campaign and is backed by Suzuki’s two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Jumping on board the latest-generation Suzuki GSX-R1000 has never been easier thanks to Suzuki Finance’s 3.49%p.a low comparison rate* offer, with a bonus Quickshifter also thrown into the mix. For $19,990 Ride Away with 12 months registration you can get your hands on the latest GSX-R1000, with a 25% discount on Suzuki Insurance’s annual comprehensive insurance also available.
Until March 31, this finance offer provides the opportunity for customers to make huge savings on their finance repayments and offers more financial freedom by allowing funds to be kept free for other purposes – like gear and accessories!
During this promotion, customers can also enjoy a 25% discount off their comprehensive Suzuki Insurance annual premium, offering another great saving.
The GSX-R1000 ABS is available for a special promotional price of $19,990 Ride Away with twelve months registration and a bonus Genuine Suzuki Bi-Directional Quickshifter^, valued at $899.
The sixth generation GSX-R1000 redefines the brand’s superbike offering and embodies the work and ambition of Suzuki engineers passionate about the GSX-R brand and its place in motorcycle history. Get your hands on the most powerful, hardest accelerating, sharpest handling GSX-R ever built today.
*The interest rate quoted is applicable for new applications for the ‘Low Rate Product’ from 1 January 2019 and is subject to change without notice. Comparison rate is 3.49% pa calculated on the basis of secured credit of $10,000 over a 3 year term. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Finance provided by Allied Credit ACN 143 964 667, Australian Credit Licence 000000. All applications are subject to Allied’s normal credit assessment and loan suitability criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Offer only available on MY17 GSX-R1000 ABS (GSX-R1000AL7) models. Applications must be approved before 31 March 2019 and vehicle must be delivered by 15 April 2019. ^Allow up to 8 weeks for supply of Genuine Suzuki Quickshifter. Cost of fitting the Genuine Suzuki Quickshifter will be covered by the selling dealership Free-Of-Charge. We recommend fitting to be scheduled for during the First Service. Advertised Ride Away price of $19,990 includes 12 months registration costs and dealer pre-delivery charges. Terms and conditions apply. Contact your Suzuki Motorcycle Dealer for full details.
Suzuki Australia is doing a ride-away deal on the 2019 Boulevard M109R which now comes in two new colour schemes with dark accents.
Price is $18,990 ride away, which means a saving on rego and other delivery costs of about $1000.
The new colours are white with blue trim and wheel rims, or black and red.
Dark accents
With the current shift away from chrome, most of the parts from the standard M109R have been swapped from chrome to dark, matte black.
Dark features include rear-view mirrors, drag-style handlebars and switches, clutch and brake levers, tank, clutch, magneto, side and cylinder head covers, brake calipers, side stand and the slash-cut mufflers.
The Black Edition also features clear indicator and tail light lenses.
There has been no change to any mechanicals or performance.
It is still powered by a 109 cubic inch (1786cc), 54-degree, V-twin, liquid-cooled engine producing 92kW @ 6200rpm with 160Nm of torque.
The massive 240mm low-profile radial rear tyre is the largest used on a Suzuki motorcycle.
The 2019 Suzuki Boulevard M109R Black Edition comes with a two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Suzuki have announced two new ‘Black Edition’ colour schemes for the 2019 M109R for a special offer price of $18,990 Ride Away, backed by Suzuki’s two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Both Black Edition models are illustrated by a host of parts from the standard M109R transformed from chrome to black, including rear-view mirrors, drag-style handlebars and switches, clutch and brake levers, tank, clutch, magneto, side and cylinder head covers, brake calipers, side stand and the slash-cut mufflers. The Black Edition also features clear indicator and tail light lenses.
The 109 cubic inch, 54-degree liquid-cooled V-twin engine, produces 123 hp at 6200 rpm and an impressive 160 Nm of arm-stretching peak torque.
The big V-twin also produces a throaty, aggressive exhaust note that identifies the M109R as a power cruiser. The Japanese chassis is built to handle all the power and torque available while delivering good lean angles, for a cruiser, and a comfortable ride.
A massive 240mm low-profile radial rear tyre means business and is also the largest ever tyre used on a Suzuki motorcycle. GSX-R derived radial-mounted calipers clamp 310mm twin floating discs to ensure this power cruiser can stop as well as it goes.
The 2019 Suzuki Boulevard M109R Black Edition models are available for a special offer price of $18,990 Ride Away. For further information on the Boulevard M109R Black Edition and the rest of the Boulevard range, interested customers should visit their local Suzuki dealer, who can be found through the Dealer Locator on www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au (link).
“I don’t like them just sitting in my shed and I can’t ride them all so it would be good if someone could display them to the public,” he says.
“Suzuki two-strokes are what I learnt to ride on.”
First Suzi
His first bike was a 1970 TS90. He doesn’t have that bike, but he now has two examples in his collection.
“They’re not mainstream bikes so they don’t cost ridiculous prices to buy,” he says.
“They are simple a hell of a lot of fun to ride and attract a lot of attention wherever I take them, not that l’m after that.
“You go to get fuel for your bike and you’ll be there for an hour talking to people about your bike.
“A lot of people like me learnt to ride on these types of bikes.
“It strikes a chord with people and their great memories.”
Most of the bikes are restored, only five bikes are registered, but all are in good mechanical condition.
Among the bikes is a T500 he bought in 2004.
“I searched for one for quite a while,” he says.
“A nice example was listed in the US and I wished there was one in Australia. Well literally a week later this one was advertised in Brisbane.
“It wouldn’t start but had good compression. I registered it in August of that year and have been riding it ever since.
“It has had every seal replaced including the crank. The gearbox was rebuilt and modified. The top end, piston and rings, have not been touched. The frame has been repainted as well as the tank and side covers.
“It is a joy to ride. Contrary to popular belief it has good torque at low revs for a 50-year-old design.
“Once it hits 5000rpm she picks up her skirt really gets going. You just ride to its limits which is good as you ride slower.”
Favourite Suzi
Neil says he doesn’t have a favourite.
“Please don’t make me choose,” he says.
“The thing people don’t realise is how difficult it is to choose which one to ride for the day.
“If you ride one the others get a bit sookie so have to be careful.
“I try to to alternate them so they all go for a bit of a run.
“One of the most endearing is a Jacaranda Blue 1967 Suzuki K10 80cc road bike.
“Whenever you ride it, you ride it full throttle and it feels like you are going as lot faster than you actually are and you can really throw it around in the corners.
“It’s not restored but it’s a delightful littler machine.
“None of them are rare or valuable. They cost around the $2000-$3000 mark. But they are worth something to me.”
New home
And they will be with a lot of sentimental value to old bikers who would love to see them on public display.
“A lot of cafes are aimed at women with crafts on display, so this would be ideal to attract some male customers,” he says.
But it would have to be nearby as Neil likes to ride a different one nearly every day.