With wicked looks and superbike attitude, the latest Suzuki GSR 750 ranks among the world's sharpest standard sport bikes. Slotted between the outrageous B-King and the sensible GSX-650F, it's an athlete through and through.

Race-derived engine
The 750cc 4-cylinder comes from the 2005 GSX-R750 superbike. It's been re-engineered to produce more mid-range torque while losing a bit of top-end power in the process. Most of the work was done on the camshafts including revised valve lift and reduced intake tract size.

With wicked looks and superbike attitude, the latest Suzuki GSR 750 ranks among the world's sharpest standard sport bikes. (Photo: Suzuki)

A benchmark in its class
Suzuki made no compromise when it came to the chassis. Forget cheap suspension components that create instability under hard acceleration and braking, or tires that lack bite in corners like those of a touring motorcycle.

The 2012 Suzuki GSR 750 rides on super-sticky Bridgestone BT016 tires (instead of the more durable BT021 models), which can also be found on the GSX-R600. The frame shows rigidity and flexibility in all the right areas, while the quality suspension does such a commendable job that it feels like you're riding a superbike.

Add predictable dynamics and a playful spirit, and you get one of the finest and friendliest standard sport bikes out there. The GSR 750 has particularly shone in Europe in comparison tests, going neck and neck with the segment's best such as the Triumph Street Triple and Kawasaki Z 750R.

In fact, its on-road behaviour is unrivalled and its race-derived engine is a model of efficiency. The GSR 750 is a serious contender that embodies all of Suzuki's know-how.

The 2012 Suzuki GSR 750 rides on super-sticky Bridgestone BT016 tires, which can also be found on the GSX-R600. (Photo: Suzuki)

Why not in Canada?
Considering that most European manufacturers (Ducati, BMW, Aprilia and Triumph) already offer a high-calibre standard or naked sport bike in Canada, why can't the Japanese do the same? Sure, we've had the Yamaha FZ8 for a year now, but what about the Kawasaki Z 750R, Honda Hornet 600 and Suzuki GSR 750?

Please, Mr. Suzuki, make it happen for 2013.