2008 Suzuki B-King
June 28th, 2007 by Paul Crowe - "The Kneeslider"
After long speculation and years of waiting, the 2008 Suzuki B-King has finally been introduced. The styling is very close to the original concept motorcycle. Suzuki received so much interest and support for the design it was given the go ahead for production.
The engine is straight from the new Hayabusa and nowhere in the specifications or features do we read the dreaded “tuned for mid range power,” it’s the Hayabusa engine in the B-King chassis. There is, however, the S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector), that allows the rider to choose from two different engine settings depending on riding conditions or rider preferences, perhaps the rider can choose mid range power if he wants it.
Let’s see, huge power in a standard chassis with aggressive styling, … did Yamaha wait too long to introduce a new V-Max?
Full features and specifications from Suzuki press release follow:
Engine
- New 1340cc, DOHC liquid-cooled, 16 valve engine shared with the new Hayabusa featuring a gear-driven counterbalancer for smooth operation
- Suzuki SDTV fuel injection system with dual injectors per cylinder and ram air intake with large volume airbox
- S-DMS (Suzuki Drive Mode Selector) allows the rider to choose from two different engine settings depending on riding conditions or rider preferences
- Lightweight titanium intake and exhaust valves with narrow 14 degree valve angle for high combustion chamber efficiency
- High efficiency curved radiator now features dual electric fans controlled by the ECM for increased cooling capacity. Oil cooler now has 10 rows cores for increased heat dissipation.
- 32 bit ECU boasts 1024 ROM for high overall performance and to control new functions like S-DMS
- Ventilation holes at the cylinder skirt for reduced pumping losses and increased overall performance
- Uniquely styled exhaust system enhances the powerful styling of the B-King
- Large volume 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system with a large capacity catalyzer, oxygen sensors and an oval cross section canister with dual openings that meets Euro 3 and Tier 2 regulation
- The Suzuki Exhaust Tuning (SET) valve is built into the mid-pipe for optimum exhaust efficiency
- Slick shifting 6 speed transmission working in conjunction with an innovative back torque limiting clutch for smooth and controlled downshifts
- Ion plating treatment utilizing PVD (physical vapor deposit) method is applied to piston rings providing a smoother surface treatment for increased durability, reduced friction loss and reduced oil consumption
Chassis
- All-new Twin-spar cast aluminum alloy frame features optimum rigidity balance and superb handling
- All-new cast aluminum alloy swingarm for the B-King is constructed of 3 main sections for minimal welding lines and a clean overall look
- New KYB inverted front forks are specifically designed for the B-King and are fully adjustable for compression, rebound damping and spring preload to suit rider preferences
- New aluminum alloy rear shock absorber features three-way adjustability with excellent damping characteristics equivalent to those of Suzuki supersport models
- Radial mount front brake calipers feature an all new design built specifically for the B-King and work with 310mm brake rotors to provide superior braking performance.
- Lightweight single piston rear brake caliper works with a 260mm rear disc
- The front brake master cylinder, its reservoir tank, as well as the clutch master cylinder were designed specifically for the aggressive look of the B-King
- The B-King features a new wheel design with a dynamic three spoke look combined with high performance radial tires boasting a massive 200mm rear tire size
- Unique three piece front fender design for a high quality look and an aggressive look
- All New instrument cluster features the signature strong B-King styling with an analog tachometer, digital speedometer, fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, twin tripmeters, clock, maintenance interval, running time, average speed, gear position indicator, and a S-DMS mode indicator
- The B-King also comes equipped with a standard steering damper for maximum stability
| Specifications | B-King |
|---|---|
| Model Number | GSX1300BKK8 |
| Type | Standard |
| Warranty | 12 month unlimited mileage limited warranty. |
| Suggested Retail | $12899 |
| Engine | 1340cc, 4-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, TSCC |
| Bore & Stroke | 81.0 x 65.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Ignition | Digital/Transistorized |
| Starter | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed, constant mesh |
| Final Drive | #530 chain |
| Overall Length | 2220mm (87.4 in.) |
| Overall Width | 800mm (31.5 in.) |
| Overall Height | 1085mm (42.7 in.) |
| Seat Height | 805mm (31.7 in.) |
| Ground Clearance | 120mm (4.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 1525mm (60.0 in.) |
| Dry Weight | 235 kg (518 lbs.) CA Model: 236 kg (520 lbs.) |
| Suspension Front | Inverted telescopic, coil spring, fully adjustable spring preload, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable compression damping |
| Suspension Rear | Link-type, gas/oil damped, fully adjustable spring preload, adjustable compression & rebound damping |
| Brakes Rear | Single hydraulic disc |
| Tires Front | 120/70-ZR-17 |
| Tires Rear | 200/50-ZR-17 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.5 liter (4.2 gal) CA Model: 16.0 liter |
| Color | Gray/Silver, Black/Matte Black |
Posted in Motorcycle Business, Motorcycle Design
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38 Responses to “2008 Suzuki B-King”
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June 28th, 2007 at 8:12 am
well at the risk of sounding a bit jaded, i think the 2001 (and 2000) concept bike looks heaps better than this one. My two main quabbles are the new headlight is just way too ugly compared to the concept one which looked cool and the tyre size has somewhat shrunk making the new B-King look like it’s lost its balls. Or maybe suzuki has. I also think it’s a tad too black, the concept bike has a bit more steel looking parts and that gave the overall look and visual balance of the bike a very eerie beauty, kind of what you’d expect a cylon to pilot.
This one is just out of kilt. Especially since the back wheel is smaller so now the exhausts look too big.
What do you think?
June 28th, 2007 at 8:58 am
The Gray/Silver color combination you like is one of the two options, check the last line of the specifications listed above. I chose this photo because most all of the previous photos always show the silver color and I thought showing this combo would be a bit different.
As far as tire size, a 200 isn’t really small unless you’re looking at custom choppers, but it will take the aftermarket no time at all to come up with every option you could imagine, huge tires included,… and maybe even the blower from the original concept. Remember, this used to be called the “Boost” King.
June 28th, 2007 at 12:29 pm
The headlight is certainly less attractive, on the concept it was more streamlined to the forks and gave the bike a hunched, ready to pounce look. It was very intimidating and i liked it. But they had to put the instrumentation somewhere, it seems, and just above the headlight in a little fairing is where it went.
Id like to see a few more angles, this is the only one ive seen, and from here that xhaust looks uuuuuugly.
June 28th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
Kneeslider, you’re right, i didn’t read the specs properly. The colour choice is certainly a good one.
Although I still think in the pics (seeing one in the flesh will probably change things a bit) the visual balance is not as “balanced” as the concept.
Tell you what though, I am seriously considering one, I love naked bikes, I don’t mind the wind blast at all. To use Clive’s words, a more streamlined headlight, and perhaps some modified shorter pipes and I’m in.
Riding a bike like that is not about doing 186mph, its knowing it can do it and then riding it a half capacity. I think Suzuki might have a winner here, unless fuel prices keep going up, in which case it might become a poser bike for the weekend.
June 28th, 2007 at 7:37 pm
alright, take the tail section and (shortened) exhausts off the B-King and slap ‘em on the new ‘Busa. that’s what I call style. not exactly bad the way they are though. . .
June 29th, 2007 at 2:59 am
More pictures and other stuff here… http://www.suzukibking.co.uk/ . In my opinion I think Suzuki lost me with those mufflers. In the profile shot, #5 of 13, on that website above makes it clear to me. Total loss of visual balance… but maybe that’s just me. I like the rest of it especially the idea of a herkin big tourqey motor in a real world standard. I also noticed that the MSRP is actually higher for the B-King than the ‘Busa??? FYI I am an owner of a ‘01 FZ1 and if I don’t find something better the motor comes out this winter for a big bore kit and some other stuff, shooting for over 180 hp.
June 29th, 2007 at 5:02 am
Amazing, are we still in the naked standard price segment…because this year is ripe with amazing bikes. From the Aprilia 750 shiver to the tentative MT-01, to the b-king, the new Z1000, and Street Speed 675…
Saturation… well a shootout must be in the works…
I am excited…
June 29th, 2007 at 11:14 pm
Of course the concept looks better… concept bikes don’t even have to actually work, they just have to look pretty. Reality comes into play and messes with the design. I don’t know how often the production version of a bike looks as good as (or better) than its concept counterpart, but it isn’t a high percentage.
July 16th, 2007 at 1:04 pm
With 175 HP at the rear wheel… it looks very pretty to me! My deposit is in and I’m first in line at the local dealer… delivery expected in late October or early November.
July 16th, 2007 at 11:03 pm
It’s true gtada that concept bikes (cars) usually look a lot better than production models. However, I have to agree with others with proportions of the bike when it comes to the exhaust for example. Also, the concept bike had a longer belly pan, which made it look a bit more aggressive, and less plastic on the side, showing the rear shock which really added to the looks.
“http://www.suzukicycles.org/Concept-Suzuki/B-KING.shtml”
But don’t get me wrong, I love the bike and Suzuki’s bold move to bring this model to the US. When you think that the GSR has been available in Europe for the longest (which is really this new bike lil sister ” http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery%20%20A/Suzuki%20GSR600%20B-king%2006%20%201.jpg “), it was about time.
Ingo Lahnemann, I’m sure you’ll be happy with your bike, I know I would
August 21st, 2007 at 4:41 pm
Hey, Ive got mine on order also. For all you playa haters out there get a life. And my dealer is hopeing for mid sept.
September 4th, 2007 at 1:40 pm
I own a Suzuki Intruder M109R 1800, and i love it, but when i saw the all new B KING, i felt in love.
Just imagine the power of 180 horses in a naked bike.I think is goint to be incredible.
I am waiting for mine to arrive to my country in January 2008 ( COSTA RICA )
I am selling my m109r, but is good to chance and experiment with new bikes on the market, an even better when the new one i the SUZUKI B KING.
September 17th, 2007 at 7:34 pm
BKING not released in 2007 in US!!?
I just talked to Suzuki Dealer here in Florida, he said the BKing is not on release list for Fall 2007.
He told me it means that BKing won’t be available until March 2008.
….just wanted to let y’all know what I just heard.
Crap, I was ready to buy one today….but he told me the news. Crap.
…Oh well…. maybe a new 2008 HayaSeeya will cheer me up instead.
October 9th, 2007 at 12:19 pm
I saw the “Burger King” concept bike and loved the style. I just bought a 07 Z1000, and I’m totally satisfied. I mean really, enough is enough. I hit 120 MPH on my ‘Z and could hardly hold on! The windblast was severe. It was pretty scary! The B King is said to have 180 HP, thats about 50 more HP then my Z1000, you better hand-cuff yourself to the handlebars! Suzuki should of put a wider rear tire on the production model, doesn’t the M109 have a 240? Besides, there is several other production bikes with 240’s right? The exhaust cans look like afterburners, but who really keeps the stock cans anyway? For those of you who want to buy one, HANG ON TIGHT!
November 6th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
A little late posting here…but I have to say, that may be the ugliest bike I’ve ever seen. IMO, Suzuki makes some really weird looking bikes, but this one is just fugly. Looks like a Transformer.
November 19th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
11/19/07
Just saw a new BKing in a crate at the dealers here in South Florida. Nice.
But, they wouldn’t let me even sit on it. When asked the price, the salesman ‘thought’ it would be MSRP plus 6% premium…then add the usual dealer fees on top of all that. Typical dealer rip off.
I think I’ll pass on this deal…
Tom
November 19th, 2007 at 4:47 pm
After just seeing a new BKing in person I have to tell you it is wider than I thought. The back tire is smaller than the concept bike. The exhaust looks awfully goofy from the back, more than I could tell from pics and vids.
I changed my mind from wanting to buy a BKing to waiting for the new 09 V-Max.
I just can’t get past the looks of the ugly exhaust on the BKing. The ‘out-the-door’ costs of the BKing will be way too high as the dealers will add another 10% for greed.
November 19th, 2007 at 11:37 pm
just got a new B King today. my dealer in CT was able to get one for me. Been a little cold here in CT so not much of a chance to ride it. Feels like a Busa power wise..for me it is a way more comfortable seating arangement. It is a very LARGE bike. Mine is all black and although the cans on the bike are pretty large and “different” they blend in well with the black paint…maybe they will grow on me hahaha. The bike is just plain cool pure and simple..
November 20th, 2007 at 4:55 pm
Just got word today there is one in Brandon on the showroom floor. I’m going to take a ride down this weekend to see it first hand.
I’d consider buying one to keep my busa company. I like the retro/transformer look. And besides, I doubt you will see very many others on the road.
November 22nd, 2007 at 11:57 pm
I sold a new 08 ‘Busa the other day and plan to sell Nashua’s first B-King too.
We have one at Best Cycle Center on Amherst Street and I actually like it, but the cans are a bit too much but I’ve already seen cool aftermarket stuff so no biggie (pun fully intended).
Give us a holler if you’re near NH ask for Chris.
Peace.
PS: The GSR600 looks far better than the B-King; it looks Hot, especially in the first pic.
http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/photos/38471GSR600.jpg
http://www.cmgonline.com/bikes/models/Suzuki/B-King/2006/BigP/06_GSR600_rhs_bg.jpg
December 17th, 2007 at 7:41 am
I saw my first one of these in Salisbury NC, at the dealership.
They had just pulled it off the truck and thrown it in the shop for removal of the ugly muffler. They were bolting on twin TWO BROTHERS CARBON CANS, which have already been developed aftermarket for the B- King. The kit INCLUDES a fender eliminator, and LED Lights.
Absolutely SICKENING!
December 17th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
B-king whats the big deal….plently i guess if you want to go fast in a straight line. personally i would buy a Boss Hoss…for real American Power..for a real performing motorcycle yea…. its the Yamaha fz1 model 2006 and forward.. speed power and handling all in one…not an overbloated wanna be.
December 31st, 2007 at 4:58 pm
Saw the B-King, I think the tank is HUGE and UGLY.
Anybody have any pictires what it looks like wwithout a tank, and possible after market normal Tank. Terry
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:11 pm
I can’t wait to see the new Bking in person if anyone knows a dealer that has one in the Northeast Kingdom (Vermont) We are willing to travel.Please shoot me an email.
I have a busa my companion has an FZ1 he wants to kick my you know what. If he finds one I may just have to get an 08 Busa and then we will see!!
Anita
January 2nd, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Anita, dealers have them up on eBay. Check out our Suzuki B-Kings for sale page.
January 7th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I finally got to sit on one of these monsters the other day. WOW! what a beast! Its even bigger in person then on the magazine cover. The tank is reeeaaaalllly wide and forces your legs to spread out wide (not for me!) It took some strength just to get big “B” off of its kickstand! It looks and feels heavy. Once ya get going though, I bet it doesn’t really matter. (unless you like left to right twisties)If its brute strength and robust appearence you want, the Big B is just the bike. But for me, I’ll keep my 07 Z1000. Its PLENTY fast for me, and it looks tough enough and its comfy, light, and handles great!
January 10th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Hi,
Thanks for the tip! I had already done that but there were only three and not in the area.I have recently found one in Vermont @ a dealership. We will be traveling this weekend to see it or buy it.We also have read if you are tall it may not be the bike for you. Have you read anything on this??
Thanks again,
Anita
January 12th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Well!!
We have now seen the new BkIng WOW! It looks much diffrent in person.Like J.J. says the tank is wide(but it has air intake) and the pipes are too big for it. I thought it seemed very light and easy to move.To me it looked like a transformer! Not sure if it will be in the garage next to my Busa real soon or not.
Anita
January 13th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
I’VE GOT THE B-KING!!! Yeah it’s not very photogenic but I don’t care and it does look better in person. But man does it go!!! I work for a dealership and have riden just about everything. This machine is about as good as it gets. Crack the throttle on the B-king and launchs straight ahead with hardly any lift in front. It’s comfortable too. You will draw attention on this bike.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:01 am
hey. my b king turned up early december. i hated the pipes but didnt care!! ive ripped all the rubbish off the back and put some two brothers racing pipes on and tail tidy. it is now awsome.
sounds like thunder coming down the road!! very happy! danny from GB!!
January 24th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
To all you new B-king owners out there, I think its time for an all out shoot-out! I hope Motorcyclist or Cycle World does a big naked bike comparo. I would love to see a new (real new) V-Max, of course the B-king, the FZ-1, 919, Z1000, Ducati Monster, Buell XB-12R, Aprilia Tuono,that one BMW 1200cc naked bike (i forgot whats its called), and last but not least, the Triumph Speedtriple. Would’nt that be awesome? They could test the quarter mile times, top speed, streetability, comfort levels and of course price. I own a 07 Z1000, it would be nice to see how it stacked up against the big boys. Can I get a HELL YA!?!?
February 14th, 2008 at 5:40 am
Picked up my new B-King 2 months ago. Awsome!! Im not sure what all the fuss is about the looks. There is so many boring looking naked bikes out there its about time we get some interesting looking nakeds. Love the exhausts. Love the huge tank. Love the power. Love the ride position. Love the wind. Love the handling. Did I mention I love the power?
March 27th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
I picked mine up last weekend, 100 miles ago. You can be critical of it’s looks, (I think it looks great) and the huge pipes…(I’ve got Yosh’s heading my way already), but until you’ve riden one don’t judge it. Cuz it don’t matter. Unless you’re numb or blinded by some past riding experience this bikes the ultimate thrill. It’s an animal and not having had it on the track yet I’d be willing to bet those talking “smak” would be hard pressed, with their best bike on a good day to out do this beast on track day.
180 BHP, great riding balance (in spite of those critical of it’s weight) comfortable naked bike upright position, a Suzuki bloodline , did I mention 180 BHP making this bike just one more evolutionary step toward two wheeled perfection.
June 30th, 2008 at 10:10 am
Suzuki B-King. Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it.
Ok, I admit, when I first saw it in the dealership I thought it looked….well, different but, didn’t take long for that to close the deal for me..different is good. Another reader nailed it when he said there are so many similar looking bikes out there. I sold my V-Max, bought the B-King. First, I’m a pretty big guy and the BK is still comfortable and as for power? I though the V-Max was fast but the BK is insane….stock!!! Powerful yet unbelievably broad and smooth power delivery. Want a pure adrenaline rush from a standard bike? It’s called the “King” for a reason.
July 12th, 2008 at 5:04 am
Looking at websites I came upon this one. I have had my B-King for 6 months now and it gets used every day for work and pleasure. The bike has so far, covered 14,000 miles (including an 80 mile daily commute and one week flying around europe).
So far it has proved to be 100% reliable, puts a massive grin on my face every time I get on it, and in 25 years of year round biking, this is the best bike I have owned, (and I have had some decent kit over the years).
It is no heavier on tyres, fuel or other consummables than my previous Busa. I have fitted Yoshimura end cans, a power commander, rear sets, tail tidy, renthal handlebars and crash bungs.
I have had it to three track days and mixed it with zx10’s and gsxr 750 and 1000’s and it hasn’t let me down in the handling stakes.
Really really happy with it.
Cheers from the UK.
July 13th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
I LIVE IN METRO ATLANTA AREA AND RIDE EVERY DAY
EITHER TO WORK OR PLEASURE AND COVER A LOT OF AREA. SO FAR SINCE TH B KING HAS BEEN OUT I HAVE
YET TO SEE ONE ON THE ROAD OR AT ANY BIKE NIGHTS OR GATHERINGS. I HAVE SEEN THEM ON THE SUZUKI DEALERS SHOWROOMS SITTING THERE FOR THE LAST FEW MONTHS. MAYBE THEY ARE TOO MUCH BIKE FOR US SOUTHERN BOYS (I JUST TRADED MY WIMPY 04 ZX-10 FOR A 08 MODEL) OR COULD IT BE PEOPLE ACTUALLY HAVE ENOUGH SENSE NOT TO PAY AROUND $15000 (MSRP + TAX + DEALER PREP) FOR A SUZUKI WHICH CAN BE OUTRUN BY A LOT MORE LESS EXPENSIVE AND JUST AS GOOD IF NOT BETTER BIKES. OF COURSE YOU CAN WAIT
AND PAY AROUND $20000 FOR THE NEW V-MAX WITH ITS
OLD 5 SPEED GEARBOX AND LIMITED TO 135 MPH.
July 19th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
LOL@ Tom G. I just bought a B-King on Tuesday for $11,000 out the door. Not sure where you get your numbers…also not sure where you find a bike that will be as quick as this one for alot less money. I have 600 miles on it and can tell you not many bikes will touch this.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Hello again from the UK. The B-king is a “marmite” bike. You either love it or hate it. In the UK what has undoubtably slowed sales is the RRP of £9000.00. Dealers in the UK are selling pre registered (0 miles) models for £6995.00.
This has made a difference and some are appearing on the road now.
On the road the bikes weight defies its abilities and it can mix it with lighter, sportier models.
The look of the bike will always provoke strong reaction, and that is no bad thing (in my opinion), in a world where blandness exists in a lot of designs.
Interestingly all of the B-Kings that I have seen on the road so far have had their standard cans removed, and a tail tidy has been used to greatly enhance the rear of the bike.
I don’t think the bike will ever command any form of cult status like the Hayabusa, but will build a strong following over time.
Still totally love riding mine, all the best to everyone regardless of whether you like or loathe this marmite missile.