The Suzuki GSR 750 and GSXR 750 are closely related motorcycle family members, but they have a distinct identity and separate history.
While the GSX series took over as the mainstay of street and sportbikes from Suzuki, the GSR bikes remain an extremely sought-after model.
This article compares Suzuki GSR 750 Vs. GSXR 750…
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Are They The Same Bike?
No, these bikes are not the same, but it is very common for people to get the two mixed up, or to simply see the GSXR 750 as being a simple updated version of the GSR.
The two bikes have distinct identities.
There certainly are many similarities, most obviously their same engine displacement of 750cc. They also both operate on inline-4 engines. There are also some stylistic similarities, but only in the overall architecture.
As you explore the many differences between the two, it becomes easier to see that they are definitely not just the same bike.
What Are The Differences?
The first difference is in outer design.
While there are certain elements that are derived from the GSXR 750, the GSR has much more of a “street bike” look compared to the GSXR 750 which looks more like a racing bike.
In many ways, the GSR looks more like a pared-down version of the GSXR, with a slimmer, more refined look.
The leaner build is even shown in things like the mirror design.
The GXSR has a more muscular mirror compared to the longer stalks of the GSR.
The GSXR, as you might expect, outputs more engine power.
The 2020 GSXR 750 can reach 148hp, whereas the GSR models in production to 2016 only managed about 105hp.
The top speed of the GSXR is quite a lot higher as well, reaching 186mph in its 2020 incarnation.
The GSR, on the other hand, could only get to 139mph.
The GSR was a longer bike, measuring 2,115mm overall compared to just 2,040mm in the GSXR.
The GSXR is closer to the ground however with a clearance of just 130mm compared to 145mm in the GSR.
Another difference is in wheelbase size, with the GSR offering a longer wheelbase of 1,450mm compared to just 1,400 on the GSXR.
What Are The Upgrades?
Interestingly, it is the GSR 750 that emerged from the GSXR 750 and not the other way round as some might expect to look at the two.
Where the GSR 750 is improved upon isn’t in power or speed but in terms of styling and engineering that made it feel like an all-new street bike offering for those who weren’t as enamored with the racing bike look of the GSXR.
The GSR 750 features great additions like its inverted front forks that retain the racing flavor of the GSXR but with new molded rearview mirrors that have more of a sense of style than the GSXR.
It also was lighter, had open radiator side panels, and a more edgy front body design than the curvier more aerodynamic GSXR.
In summary, the GSR 750 was “upgraded” to look chicer and more stylish on the road than the more traditional design of the GSXR 750. It also received ABS, which was absent from the GSXR unless mandated.
Despite the GSR being the less powerful of the two, its angular frame design makes it appear more so.
What Is The Best Buy?
If one is looking for a bike on the used motorcycle market, then the GSR 750 is certainly a great value bike.
You can find models from their production run of 2011-2016 for anywhere from $6000 to $8000 depending on bike condition.
A new GSXR 750 would set you back more than $12,400, but you could always get a used one for less money than that.
For the same model years as the GSR, you wouldn’t be likely to spend more than the top-end estimate for the GSR.
Some naturally gravitate toward the GSXR because it appears so much more built for performance and capability.
While it is definitely in possession of more horsepower and torque, you shouldn’t write off the GSR.
The GSR has excellent handling, and the chassis is exceptionally well balanced.
This makes it an excellent choice for newer riders who aren’t ready to take on the more intimidating build of the GSXR.
In all, the GSXR is definitely the best buy for experienced riders who want the power and agility that the GSR can’t quite live up to.
For those who want a more fun, balanced and relaxing ride, or a bike that feels more like an everyday runner, then the GSR is a better choice.
Which One Is Faster?
The GSXR does have a higher top speed, but that’s really when you factor in its latest technology advantages.
There are GSXR bikes up to the model year 2021, therefore they are blessed with greater power and speed.
The GSR manages a still-impressive top speed of 139mph. Some claim it can get to 150mph, but this seems to be disputed.
The GSXR has made it up to 189mph, making it a rival of bikes with bigger engines like the Yamaha R1 (999cc).
Are Both Models Still Being Made?
What’s interesting is that by 2020, both models should have stopped production.
Suzuki had originally announced that 2020 would be the last year for the GSXR 750, with few changes made for the 2020 model year.
This turned out not to happen, of course, and the GSXR 750 continues to be a flagship street/sportbike for Suzuki with a new version in the 2021 model year.
The GSR 750, on the other hand, did fade away after the 2016 model year.
It was overtaken by other GSX models, namely the GSXS 1000 which arrived in 2015 and eclipsed the GSR in performance.
The GSR is still a very popular and sought-after model on the used motorcycle market.
Their affordable price, unique looks, and pleasing performance make them an attractive choice for those looking to start their motorcycle hobby in earnest.
What Is The Biggest Difference In Those Two Models?
The most obvious differences are in performance metrics as we have described further above.
The GSR overall is slower, with less horsepower and torque.
Another key difference was in ABS.
All GSR models came with optional ABS, which is partially what helped make it popular in markets where ABS was compulsory like in the EU.
The aesthetic of the two bikes is quite different.
Though they are clearly related and an experienced eye can detect the same design language, the GSR is far more angular and edgy; designed to have more mass appeal than the GSXR 750.
The GSR is a much heavier bike at 469lbs (213kg), compared to the more svelte design of the GSXR which weighs in at 359lbs (163kg).
Finally, there is a great difference in their marketing and appreciation.
The GSR was built and sold as a street bike primarily. While the GSXR technically is a street-legal bike, too, it has a much strong streak of racing DNA.
What Do The Reviews Say?
For the GSR 750, the positives are focused on its smooth engine, pleasing handling, and affordable price tag.
The engine of the GSR gets about 38mpg, which is pleasing, but the interesting thing is the engine is so lauded mostly because it comes from the GSXR 750.
That appears to be the secret to its success.
Riders also praise the handling on the GSR despite its heftier weight, especially with ABS.
The balance of the frame helps it to be easier to control and that explains its positive reviews in this area.
On the negative side, GSR riders complain about its relatively poor brakes.
Some comment that Suzuki only put in a cheap system on the GSR, and that was a pity.
The consensus is that the two-piston brakes are “ok, but not great.”
For the GSXR, it also receives praise for its powerful engine and surprisingly competitive performance capability for a 750cc.
It rivals even the 999cc monsters.
Further praise comes to the GSXR for its ergonomic controls, a fantastic array of technology and electronics, and the fact that you can easily adjust the footpegs.
In addition, its BPF-type fork from Showa in the versions over the past 9 years has been applauded for its damping range and spring preload adjustment.
That range of adjustability is great whether you’re on the track or on the street.
The lightweight of the GSXR can send some newer riders off balance, but more experienced riders love it.
On the more negative side, there are some fans who would like to finally see an all-digital dash for the GSXR.
It is also isn’t quite as agile as they’d hope for a bike with so much lightness in its frame compared to its many contemporaries.
Which One Is Better In Motorsport?
Arguably the GSXR is the superior choice for motorsport.
The GSR is a fine bike with decent performance metrics, but it is built specifically for street use.
The GSXR delivers street-legal use, but also offers more to those who want performance from their Suzuki bike.
The GSXR is built to be as comfortable on the track as it is on the street.
Furthermore, there’s no denying that the greater horsepower and torque of the GSXR alone help it to stand out as a motorsport bike.
Put side by side, though, the GSR could probably give the GSXR at least some kind of a sporting challenge.
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