Suzuki GSXR1000 K1

Since the GSXR1000 the R1 has never been at the top of the superbike heap again. To be honest I rode the 750 K1 back to back against a 98 R1, for me the 750 was easier to ride, better handling and just as fast in a straight line. I’ve never ridden the K1 1000 but I’d imagine from riding the 750 and the later K5 1000 that this one mega piece of kit even a decade on.

You should be able to pick up a good (but maybe slightly scruffy) example for about 2 grand. I’m not a fan of big cubes on the road as you have to keep your whits about you much more especially in cold or wet conditions where you can experience sudden loss of traction. V-Twins seem a little more comfortable with a little slide, but a four can throw you over the high side much more easily.

If you have big balls and not much money then this is the bike to get. Massive wheelies, big power (even now) and it says 1000 on the tail piece. If you get dusted by a youngster on a 600 it won’t feel as bad as if you were on a new bike, unless of course it’s a 99 R6 or similar.

Engines are tough, exhaust headers are titanium and there is a Suzuki version of the Exup valve which might seize. If the red FI light on the dash is on it might mean the bike has not been thrashed and is choked up. A good hard thrash can sometimes sort whatever is turning it on and shut it off again. You always get the older rider that insists he needs a big fast bike when really he’d struggle to push the limits of a CB250. If the owner seems old and slow, and the edges of the tires still look new then I’d take a gamble and buy one with the FI light on.

In all honesty most riders will be faster and safer on a 600 or 750, but if you have the talent nothing beats a 1000. For the track 1000cc is where its at, for the road I’d take the 750.

12 Honda NX650 Dominator