Suzuki dealers got their first tastes of the all-new GSX-R1000, at a special product training event laid on by the Japanese brand at Mallory Park.

Led by three-time British Superbike champion and GSX-R development rider, John Reynolds, Suzuki’s dealers were given the chance to lap the Mallory Park circuit on the new machine, giving them the opportunity to truly understand how much work has gone into its development, and understand the bike’s ability and standout features.

The opportunity was part of a wider product training event, which saw dealership staff attend a conference at the Hinckley Island hotel, which involved a new product overview presentation followed by detailed product training sessions, before an evening dinner.

The following day dealers were able to sample the new GSX-R1000 on track, as well as ride the new V-Strom 650, V-Strom 1000, GSX-S750, and updated GSX-S1000F, on the roads.

Ben Green from Bill Smith Motors, said afterwards, “It was a good day and a good chance to try a lot of the new models in the range for this year. The 650 V-Strom stood out a lot, and should move quickly for us this year, the GSX-S as well, exciting ride, good noise, and of course the new GSX-R1000. Day has worked well, well structured, and the rides away from the track have been on good roads, good to get together with everyone, see what they think and talk about the bikes and how things are with their businesses and what’s happening in the showrooms.”

Cupar Motorcycles’ Graeme Bell, added, “It was a really well-planned event. I enjoyed the ride outs on the new bikes; the GSX-S750 was impressive and a big improvement, and the GSX-S family styling is welcome, too. And then it was great opportunity to ride the new GSX-R1000 on track. It was really enjoyable, the day was well spaced out with good breaks between sessions so you didn’t feel rushed, and the presentations were well thought out and covered all bases. It was good getting feedback from other dealerships.”

Suzuki GB general manager, Paul de Lusignan, commented, “I want to thank all of the dealerships that attended the event. It was great to see so many and it’s always a good opportunity to get together and catch up with everyone. I think it was beneficial for many, and a good chance to ride the new product. But, it’s equally beneficial for us as a manufacturer to spend time with the people in the showrooms and on the shop floor and get their feedback, as well as being able to talk through the new bikes in detail so they are as best equipped as possible when customers come into their store.”