I think the Suzuki GSX-R750 is a legendary bike. Here are some of my favourite iterations

The Suzuki GSX-R750 was the original road-going race rep and pretty much dominated racing until the late 90s. But when WSB rule changes ushered in the modern 1000cc era in 2000, the GSX-R750 became overlooked.

Related: Sportsbike riding kit buying guide

But the GSX-R750 is something of a connoisseur’s choice, with the ideal balance of power and handling. It’s a hidden gem and you can bag a belter for well under £5000.

Read on for our expert guide to the best Suzuki GSX-R750s of all time!

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MCN Recommended: 2006-2007 Suzuki GSX-R750 K6 – £4099

MCN Best Buy

Spec:

• Power 749cc
• Engine capacity 147.9bhp
• Seat height 810mm
• Kerb weight 163kg

In 2006 the GSX-R750 was brought right up to date, benefitting directly from advances created for the GSX-R600. The engine architecture is identical to the supersport machine, apart from the bore and stroke increase (70mm x 48mm) to give it the extra 150cc. Suzuki claim the K6 makes a very pleasing 147bhp, but these days a lot of used examples will have been enhanced with aftermarket goodies such as full systems and fuelling tweaks, which should result in a genuine 150bhp at the back wheel. With radial brakes and sharp-looking bodywork, the K6 750 was hugely popular in its day so there are plenty around to choose from, but take your time to find a minter.

Suzuki GSX-R750 used buying advice

As a general rule, GSX-R by this time had become so refined that problems are few and far between, however some do suffer from problems with the charging system due to the reg/rec overheating. To solve this, owners often relocate the unit to the side of the fairing to keep it cooler. Check the front brake master cylinder recall has also been carried out.

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1996-1997 Suzuki GSX-R750 T/V – £2000

The Original Weapon

Spec:

• Power 749cc
• Engine capacity 128hp
• Seat height 830mm
• Kerb weight 176kg

Known as the SRAD, these models mark the start of the GSX-R’s modern era. Gone is the cradle frame from the original model and in its place is an aluminium twin spar chassis shaped by Suzuki’s RGV Grand Prix machines. Both the 1996 T and the 1997 V are starting to become collectable. However, that’s only bikes in mint condition with all the original parts and documentation can command top prices, like this one.

Suzuki GSX-R750 T/V used buying advice

Most of the issues associated to these bikes are age related. Check for things like seized suspension linkages or worn bearings. The sixpiston brake calipers are prone to seizing. Although finding one with a full service history will be hard, there are a few around that have had relatively few owners and been properly cared for.

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2000-2003 Suzuki GSX-R750 Y – £2695

The Budget Option

Spec:

• Power 749cc
• Engine capacity 140bhp
• Seat height 830mm
• Kerb weight 166kg

The 2000 GSX-R750 Y was another revised model. This time there were numerous changes to the engine and tweaks to the chassis, all of which were aimed at making the bike lighter and more efficient. Fuel injection arrived in 1998, but 2000’s Y model gained secondary butterfly valves to aid smooth throttle control throughout the rev range. This model was lighter and more powerful than all previous models.

Suzuki GSX-R750 Y used buying advice

The exhaust valve inside the standard system was prone to either seizing in position or breaking up and becoming noisy, leading to an unpleasant sound while running. However it’s easily remedied. The cables that actuate the secondary throttle butterflies were prone to failure too, leading to running problems. Other than these issues, it’s a fairly solid machine.

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2004 Suzuki GSX-R750 K4 – £2989

The Sharpest Handling

Spec:

• Power 749cc
• Engine capacity 146hp
• Seat height 825mm
• Kerb weight 163kg

Massive revisions to the chassis makes this Suzuki GSX-R750 K4 the lightest and sweetest handling of all. For many, this bike represents the peak of the 750’s development, and even the model’s sharp styling is more efficient at cutting through the air. The engine had progressed with excellent throttle control and near perfect fuelling throughout its wide and usable rev range.

GS X-R750 K4 used buying advice

A reliable bike with no real issues as standard; you just need to watch for bikes fitted with poor quality accessories. Cheap exhaust cans are often just bolted on with little concern for the fuelling, leading to rough running and a loss of performance. Opt for an example with a premium exhaust brand and ideally some paperwork showing it’s been professionally set-up.

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2008-2010 Suzuki GSX-R750 K8 – £3775

The Refined Once

Spec:

• Power 749cc
• Engine capacity 150hp
• Seat height 810mm
• Kerb weight 167kg

Suzuki’s aim for the GSX-R750 K8 was getting better feel from the chassis, which they did by engineering more flex into the frame and swingarm. The upshot of this is that it’s very confidence-inspiring on track. The forks now had adjustability for both low and high-speed damping. There’s also the addition of a threeway power switch. This model probably has the best balance of handling and power of all GSX-Rs.

GS X-R750 K8 used buying advice

There are few faults associated with these bikes. Early K8s were known to suffer from misting headlamps due to a moisture bypassing a faulty seal, although many were fixed under warranty. There are plenty on the market, but the blue and white ones hold their value slightly better.