HQ News
New Suzuki Hustler Compact Crossover SUV Hits the Market in Japan As the new year got underway, the new Suzuki Hustler ustler began sales in the Japanese market. A mini crossover ssoverr model, the new Hustler adopts Suzuki’s 2nd generation neratio on HEARTECT platform whose low weight and high rigidity ity provides proviide dess exceptional exce ex cept ptio iona nall handling stability. The enhanced Suzuki Safety Support upport offers better protection protecti tion on ffor or drivers, dri rive vers, passengers and pedestrians. The powertrain’s newly developed R06D D engine, mated to a new CVT, delivers nimble handling. The new model maintains a small turning radius for excellent ellent manoeuvrability while its longer wheelbase also means that passengers have more room. Driving ease, safety and comfort all make the new Hustler a natural even on rough terrain. With its unique design and a tough looking style that matches its performance, the new Hustler is ready for more play, more thrills and more action. Incorporating the latest trends and lifestyle changes the new Hustler offers fresh pleasures and excitement.
At V-STROM Event Japanese Fans Get A Close Look at V-STROM 1050XT Last November, Suzuki’s head office in Hamamatsu was the scene for the 5th V-STROM Meeting, an event attended by V-STROM fans. At the event, V-STROM 1050XT was introduced for the first time in Japan. Dubbed “Master of Adventure” on its reveal at EICMA 2019 in Milan, Italy, the newest V-STROM 1050XT attracted a throng of eager fans as 1,239 fans and 907 bikes came together for the unveiling. President Toshihiro Suzuki greeted fans who scrutinized and photographed every detail with real gusto. The day’s activities offered interesting events, including talk sessions. The first, moderated by a bike journalist, featured discussions with Suzuki engineers and developers who discussed their experience working on the new V-STROM development. A second session explored the fun of touring. One notable guest, adventurer Takashi Kasori, who is 72 years old, described the fun of riding a motorcycle. Kasori said the fun was even better after turning 70. He challenged the crowd to “Keep on Riding”.
SUZUKI FAMILY English version Issued date: Spring 2020
No.151
Published by:
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION 300 Takatsuka-cho, Minami-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Japan 432-8611
Printed in Japan on FSC-certified paper
151 Spring 2020
Global Communication Magazine
DF350A Powers the ICE RIB CHALLENGE
DF350A Powers the Epic ICE RIB CHALLENGE
Greenland
Palermo New York
Palermo, Italy to New York A Test of Endurance and a Lesson on Protecting the Marine Environment Marine adventurer Sergio Davi, taking on the ICE RIB CHALLENGE, made an epic quest, sailing almost 7,000 nautical miles from Palermo, Italy, to New York in the United States aboard his inflatable RIB boat, the Nautilus Explorer. Powered by two Suzuki DF350A outboard motors, Davi hopscotched along Sicily, the Balerica Islands, Spain, Portugal, France, the UK, Ireland, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Greenland and Canada before reaching his final destination. This trip was not only about the test of skills and endurance but also a part of an action to raise awareness of marine environment conservation. Throughout the oceanic odyssey, Davi met challenges and danger. Off the coast of Greenland, it was fog and icebergs that could prove lethal if he struck them with his RIB. As he arrived in Canada, Hurricane Dorian struck and he had to secure his craft to the dock with a startling 12
ropes. But along the way he was welcomed with warm hospitality by local people along the route and could rest and relax while receiving maintenance by the dedicated Suzuki staff. Throughout his journey, the intrepid captain tended to another responsibility, acting as an ambassador of peace on behalf of the Peace Run Association and carrying the Peace Torch as a prestigious “Torchbearer of the Oceans”. Arriving in New York to a warm welcome, Devi passed the torch to its next carrier. Davi thanked his “shipmates”: the two Suzuki DF350A outboard motors, praising their fuel consumption, power and ability to adapt to any type of sea condition enabling him to safely arrive at the final destination. He said the “DF350A Suzuki engine is the best in the world for both mechanical and technical characteristics.” Suzuki is honoured to have received this comment.
Journey Provides Opportunity to Collect Data on Microplastics in Oceans Davi’s journey was not only a challenge for his skill and the performance of Suzuki’s DF350A outboards, but also an opportunity to gather important data on the impact of microplastics on the oceans. The captain took part in the taking of water samples along his route for Italy’s CNR (National Research Council) and IZS Sicily (Experimental Zoo-prophylactic Institute of Sicily) for research integral to knowing the level of microplastic pollution in our oceans. Smaller than 5mm, microplastics which come from larger plastic litter, represent a major concern for the health of the world’s ecosystems.
Suzuki Clean-Up the World Campaign Begins Its Second Decade Since its inception in 2011, Suzuki's Clean-up the World Campaign has become more and more celebrated around the world. In the ninth year of the campaign, Suzuki outboard motor distributors from Japan and 30 countries joined to conduct cleaning activities along beaches and waterways. Environmental consciousness has now become an important part of Suzuki’s brand, raising employees’ environmental awareness and providing education to children and the public at sites across the globe. Suzuki’s efforts have earned a reputation as a responsible corporate citizen which is improving sustainability and beautifying the environment. As the world’s ULTIMATE Outboard motor brand, Suzuki always remains focused on providing the ultimate marine experience. This experience requires a healthy and clean marine environment. This worldwide activity is unique to Suzuki and members of the Suzuki Family take pride in contributing to making the marine world a safer and more enjoyable place. In Japan, the campaign has been officially recognised by the Ministry of Environment in the “Plastic Smart Campaign.”
In Pakistan, 250 participants joined the campaign which was covered by 5 TV stations.
In the Philippines, fish-shaped bins for pet bottle recycling were set up and plastic garbage bags were replaced by used rice bags.
In Vanuatu, 100 people, outfitted with original T-shirts, gathered to join the campaign for six years in a row.
In Mexico, the clean-up event was held in four regions of Oaxaca, joined by city officials and the media which attracted over 100 people.
SUZUKI FAMILY
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Series
6
In 1920 Suzuki Loom Manufacturing Co. was officially incorporated with Michio Suzuki as president. To mark the 100th Anniversary Year in 2020 we are presenting this series in Suzuki Family featuring Suzuki’s DNA as shown by our history and products.
Suzuki advanced technologies
Creating Convenience and Fun for People Around the World is Suzuki’s DNA Suzuki’s 100 years of history The Enshu Region – Birthplace of Suzuki’s Manufacturing Philosophy The Enshu Region in Shizuoka Prefecture, the birthplace of Suzuki, is blessed with a rich natural environment. Located halfway between Tokyo and Osaka, people and ideas flowed through the region helping manufacturers to perfect the art of “monozukuri” or craftsmanship. In this environment, the people of Enshu developed a strong spirit they call “Yaramaika” which means “Let’s do it”.
ride to victory at the Isle of Man TT in 1963. From there, always sure to pursue “run, turn, stop” Suzuki came out with the 1983 RG250 and the 1985 GSX-R750, and passed on the same spirit into Suzuki’s automobile development.
Automobiles:
Michio Suzuki, Founder of Suzuki – Man of Ingenuity Michio Suzuki was born in 1887 into a family and community with this Enshu spirit. Seeing his mother work so hard at her weaving, he invented a revolutionary loom 10 times more efficient than looms of the time. Michio’s innovations had an enormous impact on loom technology and when he was 22 years-old he set up Suzuki Loom Works. With close attention to customers’ needs and his energetic spirit, his business soon expanded. He famously said, “If the customer needs something, do whatever we can to respond” and pursued his passion for manufacturing excellence as a true innovative inventor. In 1937, Michio made his first automobile prototype, believing that in the long term, vehicle manufacturing would be the key to SuzukI’s growth.
Passion to Develop Vehicles People Want In 1955 Suzuki started sales of Suzulight, the company’s first mass produced automobile. Its first customer was a doctor who needed to reach patients’ homes even in bad weather. From the beginning Suzuki has been supplying reliable cars that get you where you need to go when you need to be there. By 1970 the Jimny was born to fulfil the dream of driving through deep forests to reach unexplored places. Built to mini vehicle standards, the Jimny had full-scale off-road capabilities to challenge the roughest terrain, opening a new page in the history of 4WD adventure and growing to be loved as ALLGRIP has come to represent Suzuki’s 4WD all over the world.
Marine:
Award Winning Outboard Excellence
Motorcycles:
Pursuing “run, turn, stop” The Enshu region is known for its strong winds. And so, Shunzo Suzuki, who later became the company’s second president, was finding it difficult to pedal his bicycle. In 1951 he came up with the idea of motorising his transportation in an unconventional way. The next year he launched the Power Free 36cm3, the first Suzuki motorcycle. In 1965, the Ryuyo Test Course was set up in cooperation with Suzuki rider Mitsuo Ito, the first Japanese to
Suzuki’s first outboard was the D55 produced in 1965. This product was developed to answer the needs of the people in Lake Hamana where seaweed harvesting was a thriving business. In 1987, the DT200 Exanté, the flagship model of its generation, received Suzuki's first NMMA* Innovation Award. Since the first days along Lake Hamana, Suzuki has continued to answer the customers’ needs by developing revolutionary technology which led to a total of nine Innovation Awards until today.
Automobiles:
The SHVS Mild Hybrid - Fun and Fuel Efficient Suzuki’s DNA is embodied in its technologies, one of which is the light and space-saving SHVS mild hybrid. Incorporated with an ISG (integrated starter generator), the system assists the engine by an electric motor using electricity generated through regenerative braking to save fuel. A simple and low-cost structure enables Suzuki to deliver fuel efficient cars to more people in order to make a greater contribution to reducing the burden on the environment. The 12V SHVS mild hybrid, first introduced in 2014, is available in Japanese, Indian and European markets. In early 2020, Suzuki introduced a 48V SHVS mild hybrid in Europe. Raising the ISG’s power supply voltage to 48V increases electric motor assist and regenerated energy which in turn improves fuel economy. Responding to the driver’s request, the new 48V SHVS is able to sense acceleration and add torque to the engine for greater fun-to-drive experience. Surely the spirit of Suzuki DNA which not only pursues practicality but also playfulness is reflected in this hybrid technology.
Motorcycles:
Suzuki Intelligent Ride System – Designed for Riding Excellence Passion to pursue “run, turn, stop” has long been the core of Suzuki’s engineering philosophy. Now the new V-STROM 1050XT has been equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S). to make touring easier and more pleasurable by advanced electronic control technology. The S.I.R.S has a number of features. The Motion Track Brake System allows the ABS to activate not only in a straight line but also when leaning into a curve. When on a hill, the Hill Hold Control System prevents the motorcycle from backing up if you are starting on an uphill grade. And when heading downhill, the Slope Dependent Control System controls brake pressure to prevent rear wheel lift. The Load Dependent Control System and the Cruise Control System ensure smooth operation on the road while the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) allows the rider to select from three different output modes. The Traction Control
System lessens rider fatigue and makes sure you can enjoy riding in diverse conditions with confidence. Suzuki will relentlessly strive to improve “run, turn, stop” for riding fun. Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S) Slope Dependent Control System Hill Hold Control System
Load Dependent Control System Motion Track Brake System
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) Traction Control System
Cruise Control System
Marine:
Suzuki Dual Prop System – Revolutionary Outboard Motor Technology The Suzuki Dual Prop System, also o known as contra-rotating propellers, is a revolution in outboard motor technology. Found on the GEKI series, DF300B, DF325A and DF350A, the system yields maximum output under water. With three blades on each propeller for a total of six blades, and the propellers rotating in opposite directions, the Dual Prop System has more re grip and propulsion to evenly distribute torque between each prop. The System also features a reduced ed diameter high speed gear case with less water resistance and spreads the propeller load at lower speeds increasing efficiency making docking and trolling easier. Stronger reverse thrusts also provide faster stops when reversing the engines. Single propeller engines are subject to lateral pressure. But the Dual Prop System, by eliminating most of the lateral forces, contributes to the engine running straight and tracking true, providing high stability DF350A won the 2017 NMMA Innovation Award for its advanced technologies including the Suzuki Dual Prop System with its exceptional grip and acceleration. Suzuki is a truly unique brand for its highly innovative engineering for the ULTIMATE marine experience.
*NMMA=National Marine Manufacturers Association SUZUKI FAMILY
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The New XL7, the Bold Seven-Seater Crossover, Ready for Spirited Action To unleash your adventurous soul, Suzuki introduced the XL7, an all-new seven-seater crossover. The XL7’s bold SUV styling and MPV usability is just what is needed to find your next adventure. Feel the excitement of power and control. Feel the freedom and comfort of the spacious cabin. The athletic XL7 is the perfect teammate for an active lifestyle.
Bold look and sporty interior Take a look and sense the thrill of adventure. The XL7, a seven-seater crossover model matches your outgoing spirit with robust styling and a sporty interior. While achieving comfortable space inside for three rows of seats in a 4,450 mm body, this bold crossover conveys SUV toughness from the outside. The protective mouldings and silver garnishes around the body create the feel of SUV ruggedness. A large open front grille with a sword-shaped chrome accent flows into LED headlamps adding sharpness to the muscular face. Then as you take the wheel of the XL7, the interior will grab and hold your bold mood. Starting with the stylish instrument cluster with its red accents, carbon-fibre-patterned seat material, satin chrome highlight to trim - every detail of the interior rouses your driving pleasure. Both inside and outside, the XL7 is sporty and ready to go.
Support your active lifestyle with roominess and versatility
Boasts high driving performance and fuel economy
The XL7 has been designed to combine bold SUV styling with a versatile multi-purpose interior. The cabin comfortably accommodates seven adults, even in the third row, providing ample legroom, headroom and luggage space. The flexible seat arrangement allows both comfort and versatility. The third-row seats can be individually reclined for comfort. And both the second and third rows can be adjusted or folded down flat to allow more luggage space. The spacious cabin also is equipped with a number of convenient amenities for the comfort of each passenger.
Driving the XL7 at your command is so much fun. Thanks to the high-performance engine combined with its lightweight HEARTECT platform, The XL7 provides excellent fuel economy and powerful driving performance while achieving outstanding “run, stop, turn” performance. Also, the platform, with its smooth, curving form, disperses impact energy more efficiently for greater collision safety. Furthermore, a class-leading aerodynamic body design slices the wind wherever you go, increasing fuel efficiency and reducing noise,
The New S-PRESSO, Inspired by Suzuki’s Traditional SUV Styling The SUV style compact car, S-PRESSO made its debut to young minds who want to make their mark in every corner of the city. For those who want to express themselves in a busy city scene, the new S-PRESSO is just the car you are looking for. With Suzuki’s characteristic 5-spoke front grille as seen in SUV models Vitara and Jimny, the new S-PRESSO makes a bold statement wherever it goes. Its robust appearance is reflected in strong character lines and the muscular front grille and face, distinct headlamp design and other exterior features expressing a go-forward persona. Its interior is stylish yet bold with its “vibrant and innovative” concept. The cutting-edge digital speedometer positioned at the centre of the instrument panel for easy readability, attracts immediate attention with its futuristic design. Despite its compact size, comfort is not compromised and the S-PRESSO has ample shoulder room as well as generous luggage space and room for multiple items. The S-PRESSO’s lively performance comes from the combining of a compact 1.0 litre engine with Suzuki’s light but rigid HEARTECT platform. The result is peppy performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. Also, safety technologies such as impact-absorbing TECT body, ABS with EBD, SRS airbags and more, contribute to the driver’s peace of mind. SUZUKI FAMILY
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What’s Goin’ On?
SHOWTIME
MotoGP
All-new V-STROM 1050/XT Introduced at EICMA in Milan The EIMCA 2019 held in Milan in November was the perfect venue for the introduction of the 2020 V-STROM 1050/XT. Dubbed “The Master of Adventure”, the latest Suzuki V-STROM was presented at a press conference attended by more than 300 members. The level of excitement was palpable and increased even more when the 1050XT was joined on stage by Suzuki MotoGP riders Alex Rins and Joan Mir. Suzuki’s “Master of Adventure” was developed to make everyday riding more pleasurable and leisure riding more exciting. At the Milan event, visitors could sample the “Suzuki VR Experience” on VR rides aboard the GSX-R1000R on the GP circuits or in the Tyrolean countryside on a V-STROM 1050. Since its introduction in 2002, the V-STROM series has sold over 170,000 units and continues to be loved by many proud owners.
Team SUZUKI ECSTAR Challenging for MotoGP 2020 Season
Rins holds Trophy at British GP 2019
Team SUZUKI ECSTAR is excited as the team starts this season’s FIM Road Racing Grand Prix (MotoGP), the world’s premier motorcycle racing series. Alex Rins (Spain) and Joan Mir (Spain) continue to compete aboard the GSX-RR which has overall improved engine power through all ranges and better braking, without sacrificing cornering performance. Feedback from the MotoGP track will help the creation of better and more attractive products. Last season, Rins finished first twice, once in the British GP and also at the Austin GP in the United States. After a strong debut last season, Mir now has experience and will be a great complement to Rins’ go-for-broke riding style, making this a promising season.
suzuki-racing.com
Suzuki Demonstrates Future Possibilities of Mobility at Tokyo Motor Show
GSX-RR MotoGP 2020
#36 Joan Mir
#42 Alex Rins
Suzuki used the Tokyo Motor Show 2019 to premiere a number of concept vehicles that represent the future of mobility. WAKU SPO proposes the ideal PHEV capable of
AMA Supercross
EWC
delivering driving pleasure to every generation. The cockpit changes appearance and function to match the needs of each driver and the vehicle itself transforms from coupe to wagon at the push of a switch to best match the intended purpose.
Hanare is Suzuki’s autonomous vehicle that serves as a mobile room. Its freeform styling eliminates ‘front’ and ‘rear’ to achieve ease of navigation and flexible interior space. With its variety of seating arrangements and large swing-up side door, Hanare quickly transforms from a cozy personal space to an open one to enjoy with family or friends. KUPO premiered as a concept of electro-assist
walker that transforms into an electric wheelchair. To encourage people to get health benefit from walking, an electric motor assists the user when walking. Drive mode transforms the assisted walker into an electric wheelchair for longer distances.
The GIXXER SF 250 sport motorcycle made its Japanese premiere and introduced a new-generation oil-cooled engine. By applying innovative technologies to reduce weight, lessen friction and increase cooling efficiency, Suzuki has enhanced its oil cooling system to boost output while achieving better fuel economy and durability. The GEKI series of Suzuki outboard motors, comprised of the DF300B/325A/350A were displayed. The size, power, and Suzuki’s innovative technologies such as the 4,390cm3 V6 DOHC motor and the Dual Prop system attracted many visitors.
Vincent (second from left) on top podium at Rd. 2 Le Mans 2019
#26 Alex Martin aboard his RM-Z250
Vincent Philippe Farewell After Years of Dedication to SERT
2020 JGRMX/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing Team Sets Roster
Despite severe weather issues at the 8-Hours of Sepang round in Malaysia last December, Suzuki Endurance Racing Team (SERT) managed to hold on to the top point standing following the second of five rounds of the FIM EWC 2019/2020 season. But also as the last competition for celebrated rider, Vincent Philippe, who was retiring after helping SERT win 10 world titles, it was an emotional moment. Philippe will always be remembered by Suzuki fans. SERT is well-placed to resume its quest for more riding glory in the next race on 18th April, the 24-Hours of Le Mans.
With the 2020 Monster Energy Supercross series underway Suzuki has a strong team in place. In the premier class are Swedish rider Fredrik “Fast Freddie” Noren who joined Suzuki last year and Joey Savatgy, the 2019 450SX Rookie of the Year riding the Suzuki RM-Z450. Aboard the RM-Z250 are returning rider, Alex Martin, and Jimmy Decotis who races at both the 250 and the 450 level. Suzuki’s SX/MX Manager Chris Wheeler expressed excitement saying, “It’s fun watching the JGR Suzuki team do battle.”
EWC Calendar 2020 Rd. 3
18 April
Le Mans 24-hr, France
Rd. 4
6 June
Oschersleben 8-hr, Germany
Rd. 5
19 July
Suzuka 8-hr, Japan
AMA SX Calendar 2020 in USA Rd. 14
4 April
Denver, CO
Rd. 15
18 April
Foxborough, MA
Rd. 16
25 April
Las Vegas, NV
Rd. 17
2 May
Salt Lake City, UT SUZUKI FAMILY
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AUTOMOBILES
AUTOMOBILES From Chile
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From France
Suzuki Chile Offers an Energetic Challenge with Suzuki Climbing Tour
Suzuki France to Partner with Men’s/Women’s National Basketball Teams
For over a decade Suzuki Chile has organised the “Suzuki Climbing Tour” to provide families and other adventurous souls with a passion for nature a chance to participate in a challenging outdoor event. First held in 2008, the Tour takes place in the hills of Chile’s metropolitan region and for eleven years has attracted thousands of participants. With all-comers events and uphill courses for advanced trekkers, the Tour has become the perfect excuse to venture into the discovery of new places. Participants can enjoy nature off the usual beaten track, along a clearly marked path proceeding at their own pace. This allows
Suzuki France became an official partner in July of last year with the French Basketball Federation (Fédération Française de Basketball, FFBB), a move that is designed to develop Suzuki’s brand awareness in France. With over 4,000 basketball clubs, including 36 professional clubs and an estimated 2.5 million amateur players, basketball is the 2nd most popular participation sport in France. Following the World Cup in China in 2019 and with the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2021 European Championship, interest in basketball in France will be even higher. FFBB is proud that basketball is the number one sports activity among women, a sport which has a strong regional focus, and is associated with an emphasis on fair play. Suzuki shares these values and is glad to support the sport of basketball in France through this partnership.
both elite athletes as well as children and novices to experience the joy of Suzuki’s outdoor Way of Life! This year Suzuki Chile plans to hold six “Suzuki Tour Climbing” events, further demonstrating that Suzuki is a brand born for adventure.
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Suzuki Helps Train Indian Maintenance Workers For two weeks during November 2019, staff of Suzuki Motor Corporation provided expert lectures to students at the Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM). JIM is a joint initiative between the Japanese and Indian governments which seeks to develop human resources by teaching Japanese automobile maintenance techniques. With up-to-date facilities, and with the support of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, JIM offers practical training in such areas as body repair, welding and paint repair.
JIM opened its first facility in Gujurat in 2017 and a second in Haryana in 2019. Over the past two years of the Gujurat program, all graduates, a total of 562, have been highly sought after and have been placed with well-regarded businesses.
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From Switzerland
Suzuki Swiss Racing Cup Season 2020 To Be Even Better The 2019 Suzuki Swiss Racing Cup season came to a festive close on 2nd November at Auto Zurich. After eight days of racing, from the Interlaken Slalom in April to the Ambri Slalom in October, the 2019 series boasted 42 officially registered Suzuki Swift Sport drivers and guest drivers including wrestler and brand ambassador Remo Kaser and model Milena Crusi. All the ranked Cup participants were presented with either a cup or a small trophy to mark the end of a great season.
The Suzuki Swiss Racing Cup has demonstrated just how fast and agile the Swift Sport is. An additional event, Anneau du Rhin will be added to the race calendar which should make the event even more exciting.
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MOTORCYCLES
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MOTORCYCLES
From India
From Turkey
Hayabusa Day and Suzuki GIXXER Cup Bring Excitement to Bike Lovers in India
Festival for Motorcycle Enthusiasts Held in Istanbul
Hayabusa Day -- Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL) brought 2019 to an exciting end. Hayabusa Day in November saw over 180 riders, members of Hayabusa’s official India club named Hayabusa Creed India from 4 cities embarked on a 200km each way journey to an exotic location. After an evening full of fun, music and bonding followed by a magnificent dinner, riders spent the night at the luxurious venue. This was a perfect opportunity for the Hayabusa community to experience the pleasure of riding a performance motorcycle with like-minded riders.
Suzuki GIXXER Cup -- Then in December, 25 riders from around India competed in the Suzuki GIXXER Cup while on the same day 12 riders from 6 different nations challenged round three of the Asia Cup of Road Racing (ACRR) championship title. Both events, held in Noida, took place at the Buddh International Circuit. The GIXXER Cup riders competed on the modified version of GIXXER while ACRR riders got their hands on the race ready version of GIXXER SF 250. Over 40,000 spectators packed the grandstand to witness the culmination of the exhilarating season for the event. In the customer area, a roller activity was organised to give customers a feel for the exciting GIXXER motorcycle.
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From Pakistan
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Suzuki Turkey organised an end of season festival in Istanbul to bring motorcycle enthusiasts together. The motto used to publicise the event was “There is no season for riding” and organisers used social media, influencer collaboration, mail outs, outdoor and mobile channels to make sure the event invitation reached its target audience. Almost 1,000 motorcycle lovers participated in the event and 220 test drives were held and trainers provided safety instruction to riders. Riders with major social media followings, including on YouTube, presented the Katana and organised contests. By the end of the day long festival, 12 motorcycles were sold. Suzuki Turkey is now planning to hold a similar event this summer and it is sure to also be a memorable day.
From Guatemala
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From Ireland
Riding School Learning for Life!
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Loyal Customer of Suzuki BURGMAN
Guatemala has a young population which means every year many young riders are getting on to the roads. With so many new riders, Suzuki decided to create the Free Suzuki Riding School to provide proper riding and safety lessons to these new riders. Suzuki’s school operates with the cooperation of municipal authorities and has trained professional instructors and a closed-circuit training environment. Free courses provide practical workshop experience, theoretical lessons and lessons about motorcycle inspection, the importance of helmets and other safety accessories and very importantly, traffic rules and regulations. After studying and passing an examination, new riders can take an exam to obtain their license. As a socially responsible company, Suzuki is proud to be involved in this effort to make motorcycling in Guatemala not only more fun but also much safer.
About 14 years ago, Brian Purcell was standing on a street in Holland and saw a black scooter pass by. He fell in love. It was a BURGMAN 125cm3. As soon as he returned home, he bought his first BURGMAN. Over the years, he had upgraded to 400cm3 models and finally decided to get the BURGMAN 650 Executive after seeing a picture of the bike riding the rolling hills of California. He has now taken his 650 around Europe, exploring the Alps in France and Switzerland and along the German autobahn. And then, last year Brian proudly boarded his BURGMAN to participate in an exhilarating track day at Ireland’s international motorsports venue, Mondello Park. The track day experience was a 60th birthday treat from his friends. Suzuki is proud to have Brian as a loyal BURGMAN rider who enjoys his adventurous rides.
Pak Suzuki Motor Holds GIXXER Customer Get-Together The Lahore regional office of Pak Suzuki Motor Co. Ltd., held a get-together event for Suzuki GIXXER (GSX150SF) owners and was pleased by the positive feedback from the attendees. The 23 owners present for “Suzuki GIXXER’s Customer Get-Together” were briefed on Suzuki’s motorcycle history and the current 2W product-mix of Pak Suzuki Motor Co. Ltd. Feedback from the GIXXER owners revealed that a majority of customers said they bought Suzuki GIXXER due to its design and aerodynamic shape. Customers also expressed their
feeling of pride when out on the road on their Suzuki GIXXER. At the event, dinner was served and gift hampers presented. Pak Suzuki Motor was pleased to be able to thank its customers and appreciates their trust and gratitude. SUZUKI FAMILY
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MARINE PRODUCTS
MARINE PRODUCTS
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From Japan
Suzuki Marine Co., Ltd. Sponsoring Japanese Mermaid, Okamoto
Suzuki Marine Co., Ltd. in Japan has been proudly sponsoring Misuzu Okamoto, a champion free diver, since 2013. In 2003, she became the record holder in the Japanese women sector of Constant Weight with Fins (CWT) category of free diving, a sport that challenges athletes to descend in the water to seemingly incredible depths in a single breath. After that feat, she continued to set new records and in 2010, won her first gold medal at the AIDA world championship. For the past decade she has established herself as Japan’s number one female free diver, collecting gold medals in world competitions in Europe and Japan, including the latest Authentic Big Blue Gold in 2019. Congratulations to Misuzu for her outstanding performance and her efforts to promote not only the sport of freediving but also the need for marine conservation.
From Bahrain
From France
H Aldhaen Boats W.L.L., Suzuki’s Official Dealer, Displays DF350A at Defence Show
Suzuki and BENETEAU Team up at Paris Boat Show
During the 3-day Bahrain International Defence Exhibition and Conference last October, Suzuki outboard motor distributor H Aldhaen Boats W.L.L. demonstrated Suzuki’s powerful DF350A outboard motor. The international audience was also able to appreciate Suzuki’s technological innovations. Suzuki outboard motors have been increasing in popularity in Bahrain. The combination of Suzuki and H AlDhaen has begun to expand markets such as the commercial fishery and pleasure boating markets.
At the Paris Boat show, Suzuki Marine’s partnership with French boat manufacturer BENETEAU was on prominent display. New twin DF300B outboard motors provide the power for the newly launched BENETEAU Anteres 11, the largest boat in the series and the first model to feature a folding cockpit balcony. As a partner with BENETEAU, Suzuki was able to present details of the new GEKI series DF300B outboard with award winning technologies at the press launch event. At the event, Guillaume Vuillardot, Director of Suzuki France’s Marine Division, presented the history of the partnership between BENETEAU and Suzuki, including events where both had worked together since 2013, Suzuki’s development policy, the range of Suzuki products, and the technical features of the new DF300B.
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2019 AIDA Authentic Big Blue International competition at Greece
Gold medal (Individual)
2019 AIDA Freediving Pool Japan Championship
Gold medal (Individual)
2016 AIDA Depth World Championship at Greece
Gold medal (Team)
2015 AIDA Depth World Championship at Cyprus
Gold medal (Individual)
2014 AIDA Depth World Championship at Italy
Silver medal (Team)
2013 AIDA Depth World Championship at Greece
Silver medal (Individual)
2012 AIDA Depth World Championship at France 2011 AIDA Depth World Championship at France
Gold medal (Team) Bronze medal (Individual)
2010 AIDA Depth World Championship at Japan
Gold medal (Team)
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DF325A Shown at Bangkok Motor Expo
At Motor Expo 2019 held in Bangkok, Thai Suzuki Motor proudly exhibited the high-tech and innovative DF325A. This 4-stroke outboard has been designed to be robust, easy to use and versatile, making it the ideal motor for large boats whatever the task. This was the first time an outboard motor had been shown at the Motor Expo so it attracted attention from many visitors. A monitor was also set up next to the model display and the PR videos of the DF325A were screened, giving visitors a chance to see the Suzuki outboard motor's performance.
Fishermen’s Race in Logending Powered by Suzuki Outboards
At a fishermen boat racing event last December, 120 competitors from 5 fishing unions participated in a race held in Logending, Kebumen in central Java, Indonesia. As many as 500 local spectators lined the shores to watch the exciting event that featured 60 boats, all equipped with Suzuki outboard motors. At the event, PT Suzuki Indomobile Sales offered outboard motors for sale as well as selling a good amount of spare parts and accessories. The fishing unions involved were Logending, Jetis, Pasir Argopeni and Karangduwur. Supported by the local self-governing body, the navy, rescue teams and fishermen’s unions, the event was an excellent way to show the superior performance and durability of Suzuki’s outboard motors.
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Compact but Powerful DF40ASVT “ARI” Launched at Genoa Boat Show Visitors crowded around to get a closer look last September when the new DF40ASVT was launched at the Genoa Boat Show in Italy. Because of the power that the DF40ASVT packs into its small frame, this model has been given the pet name “ARI” which means ant in Japanese. At the show, Suzuki Italia created a unique panel image which helped draw attention to the black and white models of the ARI displayed at the Suzuki exhibit. The ARI will be available in the Italian market for pleasure boating and other uses in the Spring this year. SUZUKI FAMILY
Spring 2020
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