While the rest of the world received the Suzuki GSX-R750 in 1985, America didn't receive the ground-breaking sportbike until 1986. But although the Suzuki GSX-R750 is honored as the prototype of modern sportbikes, there was another Suzuki GSX-R that preceded it. Launched only in the Suzuki's domestic market of Japan, the 1984 liquid-cooled GSX-R400 is officially the original Gixxer.
Nonetheless, the Suzuki GSX-R750 symbolizes the beginning of the modern sportbike. Based on Suzuki's works endurance racer, the no-nonsense, purpose-built GSX-R was the first production race-replica from a Japanese OEM. The Suzuki GSX-R's combination of light weight (387 lbs. dry) and power (100 hp at 10,500 rpm) was a performance package unmatched by other sportbikes, while its aluminum frame, clip-on handlebars, rear-set footpegs and full-fairing with twin headlights completed the GSX-R's distinctive, made-for-racing architecture.
Unlike its 400cc counterpart and other contemporary sportbikes of the era, the Suzuki GSX-R750 was powered by an air- and oil-cooled engine, the same engine format powering the 750's big brother, the Suzuki GSX-R1100, also launched in 1986. Cast from essentially the same mold, the Suzuki GSX-R1100 upped the 750's horsepower (125 hp) and top speed (155 mph) figures. Both models became the bike of choice for privateer motorcycle road racers competing in respective displacement classes.
