In 2001, Suzuki unveiled the all-new GSX-R1000, and journalists felt it was the first bike to compete with Yamaha’s revolutionary R1 of 1998 because Suzuki was able to top the R1 with less weight and more power (374 pound dry weight, 160 hp/81 lb-ft at the crank). Yoshimura then took the already-impressive Suzuki to the next level by creating their version with more power, less weight, and a whole bunch of goodies. Just 50 were built, and the cost was well past $20k.
Specific upgrades included a whole bunch of Yoshimura parts: camshafts, valve springs, engine mangament, engine cases, sump, clip-ons, and a 4-1 Tri-Oval exhaust. It also got Ohlins suspension, 6-pot Nissin calipers, Nissin radial master cylinder, and BBS lightweight wheels. Oh, and Yoshimura created their own carbon fiber bodywork. All the engine work bumped power up to 168 horsepower and 80 ft-lb…at the rear wheel.
The seller of this example is unfortunately light on details, but it’s such a rare find that I still feel obligated to share it. He notes that the Tornados were numbered from 1-50 but doesn’t mention which one this is. It has 13,400 kms (8,326 miles) and the seller says “feel free to ask for more pictures” – which you should.
Find this Tornado for sale in Lisbon, Portugal with a BIN of $42,500 or best offer here on eBay.