Description
Click here for an CycleVIN Motorcycle History Report on this 2002 Suzuki TL1000R. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Following the success of Ducati’s V-Twin-powered racers in the World Superbike Championship, other major manufacturers followed suit by developing their own race-bred V-Twins. Suzuki’s first attempt at a performance-driven V-Twin model came in the form of the TL1000S in 1997, though the next year the Japanese marque would follow up the half-faired 1000S with the even racier TL1000R. “The concept behind the TL1000R is simple: Build a V-Twin with the potential to win Superbike races,” explained Hiroshi Moritake, who led the TL-R project.
While the 1000S and 1000R models both shared the same engine, the R-spec was far more than just a full-faired version of its predecessor. The 1000R featured a beefy aluminum twin-spar frame based on the GSX-R750. The frame was complemented by a new braced swingarm, a standard steering damper, and a revised version of the 1000S’s notoriously finicky rotary damper spring unit with new linkages.
The V-Twin motor was also updated for the TLR, getting a revised ram-air-box, Mikuni electronic dual-injector throttle bodies, upgraded cams, forged pistons, beefier connecting rods, improved ignition timing, and a 1,000 rpm higher redline. The changes to the liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 996cc, 8V, DOHC, 90-degree V-Twin ultimately afforded the TLR a cool 135hp at 9,500 rpm and 78 ft-lbs of torque at 7,500 rpm. And despite the bump in performance, the V-Twin retained its reputation for bullet-proof reliability. The Gixxer-derived chassis was paired with a set of 43mm inverted forks and a Progressive link shock, both adjustable for spring preload, rebound, and compression damping. Slowing the twin-cylinder superbike was a pair of 320mm front discs bit by six-piston calipers and a single 220mm disc with a dual-piston caliper in the rear — all provided by Tokico.
Weighing around 430 lbs dry, the TL1000R sported wind-tunnel-developed bodywork including a distinctive “shark nose” fairing, which helped the 135 hp V-Twin cut through the air and reach speeds of up to 170 mph. Suzuki also offered a myriad of trick factory race kit parts for the TLR, including upgraded internals, and a wide array of chassis adjustability such as swing-arm pivot position, ride height, and steering stem rake.
The seller of this example (VIN: JS1VT52A922100972) is the second owner. It was originally sold at Loudoun Motorports in Leesburg, Virginia (no longer in business) in June 2002.
The current owner acquired it five years ago and has put less than 50 miles on it since. The odometer now shows 1,296 miles.
He notes that he has always kept it on a battery tender in a climate controlled environment and that he only used non-ethanol fuel.
Modifications:
D&D exhaust.
Polished frame.
Chrome wheels with new Michelin Pilot Power tires (less than 10 miles on them).
Memphis Shades yellow windscreen (the sale includes the instructions and receipt).
Cosmetic Blemishes:
In addition to the new tires, recent maintenance includes a fuel pump seal and new battery. The seller starts this bike once a month and says that it has no mechanical issues.
The sale includes the passenger seat, OEM windscreen, tool kit, original battery door (which has some scuffs), tank prop, and some spare parts.
It also includes two keys, the original owner’s manual, service manual, Suzuki Servicard, and purchase paperwork from the original owner.
Currently located in Carroll, Ohio, this Suzuki is offered on a clean Ohio title.
Have any TL-R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the comments!
