2002 Suzuki TL1000R

Description

Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 2002 Suzuki TL1000R.

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.

This example is VIN: JS1VT52A022100195. The seller purchased the bike one year ago from a private party and notes, “A very well kept TL1000R in excellent garage kept condition.”

The odometer shows 9,976 miles.

Maintenance:
Per the seller, “New tires, fresh oil, new rear shock, new fork seals, all hydraulic fluids changed within the last year.”

Modifications:
“Yoshimura pipe, wind shield, levers, blinkers.”

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Continental ContiSportAttack tires with date codes of 2123 and 2524.

The sale includes one key, rear seat, and various parts.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Minor speckling from age. 1 side has a little bit of yellowing, it’s hard to see unless you are up close.”

Currently located in Cibolo, Texas this Suzuki is offered on a clean Texas title. Have any TL1000R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!