Running straight after the Brands Hatch, Snetterton and Cadwell Park British Superbike rounds, the exclusive days will be open to any Suzuki owner past or present, via a pre-registration process to be announced on www.imgsx-r.com shortly.

Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman commented, “At Suzuki, we believe it’s the people that make things historic, so involving our customers, staff and friends in these special events seemed the perfect way to start our 25th anniversary celebrations for the GSX-R. With each event following a British Superbike round, we are pleased to confirm the participation of selected racers, including 2010 Worx Suzuki BSB riders Yukio Kagayama and Tommy Hill, the Relentless Suzuki by TAS pairing of Michael Laverty and Alastair Seeley with other special appearances to be confirmed.”

Kicking off at Brands Hatch on the 7th April, the events will offer participants the chance to ride some of the UK's best race circuits with the stars, while gaining valuable riding tips from the current BSB racers and three-times BSB Champ John Reynolds, as well as the added opportunity try out a new GSX-R too*.

With a host of off-track activities including question and answer sessions with the BSB riders, a competition for the best GSX-R on the day, plus autograph sessions, each day is set to be action-packed.

Cost for the Brands Hatch event will be £125 and is open to all Suzuki owners past and present.

Dates & Venues: Brands Hatch (Indy) - 7th of April, Snetterton - 13th of July, Cadwell Park - 1st of September.

* More details are available from our exclusive track day partner, Focused Events - Tel: 08450 25 GSXR (4797) and quote "GSXR".

Keep an eye on www.imgsx-r.com for further news of these events and for terms and conditions on racer attendance.

With just 25 machines available, all reservations will be handled exclusively through www.imgsx-r.com from mid-day on the 23rd January and operated on a first come, first served basis. The reservation system will be open until all 25 machines have been reserved.

Featuring a unique retro colour scheme (a tribute to the 1996 GSX-R750), a Yoshimura silencer and commemorative individually numbered top yoke plaque and certificate, the exclusive GSX-R750 will have a recommended retail price of £10,099.

Suzuki GB sales and marketing director, David Taylor commented, "With such an exclusive model, a web reservation process was the only fair way for interested customers to get a chance of securing this bike. While the initial process is completed online, successful applicants will be subsequently contacted by Suzuki GB PLC, with eventual delivery taking place via their nominated dealer."

With the GSX-R750 the first in a series of exclusive models to be released in 2010 to celebrate the 25th anniversary, interested customers are urged to visit www.imgsx-r.com promptly, where full details of the reservation process for this and future models will be announced, as well as all other anniversary news throughout the year.

Launched in the spring of 2009, the Gladius 650 replaced the hugely popular SV650, going on to score highly with both press and customers. Featuring a trellis-styled steel frame, curved bodywork and ancillaries along with bold colour options, the Gladius brought unique style to the Japanese naked middleweight segment.

But it's more than just aesthetics that have made the Gladius an instant hit. With a chassis and bodywork designed to be slender, a low seat-height of just 785mm and strong attention to detail, the Gladius 650 is one entry-level machine that delivers both form and function.

With a recommended retail price of just £4,949 on the road, its final blow is the ability to bring great design, performance and usability to every type of rider.

In spite of an inevitable drop in overall sales, Suzuki continued to dominate the large capacity motorcycle market, finishing the year as number one, while maintaining a 15.1% market share in the category too.

Suzuki GB general manager, sales, Paul de Lusignan, commented, "It's extremely encouraging to finish such a difficult year in top spot. Obviously we saw a drop in sales, but with a strong product range and the continuation of value-busting offers, we've managed to maintain our market position for the seventh year in succession, with a total of 9,767 motorcycles sold in the 126cc and above sector."

In 2009, Suzuki's best selling single model was the all-new GSX-R1000, closely followed by the Bandit 1250SA, with the iconic GSX-R750 coming home in third spot.

And with the GSX-R range celebrating its 25th birthday this year, combined with the brand's 50th anniversary of International racing, Suzuki will look to make 2010 another year at the top.

(Figures based on MCIA statistics.)

In terms of global presence and product diversity, the partnership marks an important step towards the future for both Volkswagen and Suzuki. In terms of product portfolio, global distribution and manufacturing capacities, Volkswagen and Suzuki ideally complement each other. The companies plan a joint approach to the growing worldwide demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles. The management of Volkswagen and Suzuki have concluded that the complementary strengths of each company make for a perfect fit in exploiting their respective advantages as well as rising to the challenge of the global market.

In the automotive industry, where globalization and diversification proceed in parallel, both companies will establish a cooperative relationship while respecting each other’s independence as a stand-alone entity. Both parties are focused on achieving synergies in the areas of rapidly growing emerging markets as well as in the development and manufacturing of innovative and environmentally friendly compact cars.

To support a smooth development of this relationship, Volkswagen will purchase 19.9% of Suzuki’s issued shares. The Closing of the transaction is subject to approval of the relevant authorities and is expected in January 2010. Suzuki intends to invest up to one half of the amount received from Volkswagen into shares of Volkswagen. Both companies will form a long-term strategic partnership based on this which will support their successful strategies in these challenging times.

“Two of the world’s leading car makers are joining forces and preparing to meet the growing challenges that lie ahead. Together we can maximize our opportunities for growth. We are proud to be cooperating with such an esteemed and valued partner”, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn said.

Mr. O. Suzuki spoke that “We were very much impressed about the enthusiasm of Volkswagen towards manufacture of splendid automobiles. The companies shall cooperate taking advantage of the strength of the other with the maximum consideration to the global environment. We will also continue to extend our utmost efforts for customer satisfaction.

As demand continues to rise for smaller cars and for powertrains with higher fuel efficiency and lower CO2 output, Volkswagen and Suzuki will offer a compelling solution for customers in emerging markets buying a car for the first time and also for customers in advanced economies seeking to lower their CO2 footprint while still enjoying the freedom of transport offered by an exciting range of cars.

Built exclusively for 1993 500cc World Champion Kevin Schwantz to ride, when he visited the Isle of Man in 2007 for the TT centenary celebrations, the one-off special features a paint-scheme echoing the legendary rider's RGV500 race bike, with additions such as a Yoshimura exhaust system and lacquered signature too.

To be auctioned as part of the BEN Ball in December, where the charity will celebrate its 75th anniversary, the bike is set to be the star motorcycle prize amongst a number of other auction items that the charity hope will help raise their target of £150,000.

Suzuki GB sales and marketing director, David Taylor commented, "BEN is a charity close to all of our hearts due to their critical work supporting workers and their families from within the Automotive Industries. The Kevin Schwantz GSX-R1000 really is a one-off bike, with a fantastic story behind it. With its inclusion in this auction, someone will make a money can't buy dream a reality."

Announced on the Suzuki show stand at the International Motorcycle & Scooter Show by sales and marketing director, David Taylor, the limited run features a unique colour scheme, replicating the 1996 GSX-R750, with a Yoshimura exhaust and commemorative individually numbered top yoke plaque and certificate.

Upon announcing the exclusive model, David Taylor said, "This is our most exclusive model ever. With just 25 models being built and with a unique online order process, we expect these to be snapped up fast. With its retro paint scheme, Yoshimura silencer and commemorative plaque and certificate, this is set to become one of the most sought-after GSX-R's ever produced."

With pricing and availability to be announced, interested customers should visit the special 25 year GSX-R website - www.imgsx-r.com

Bolstering Suzuki's existing line-up, while making it one of the freshest cruiser ranges in motorcycling, the new additions combine the latest technology with classic lines and punchy engines.

Headlining the new arrivals is the M1500, offering all the style of its larger sibling, the M1800R, but with added ease of use and manoeuvrability. With 80BHP and 125NM of torque, the 1500 still packs a mighty punch, thanks to its 54 degree, four-valve V-Twin engine.

In the middleweight cruiser range, customers get enhanced choice with the re-introduction of the Intruder C800 and an all new M800.

Echoing the looks of the M1500 and M1800R cruisers, the new M800 offers cutting-edge performance cruiser looks, with sleek, flowing lines. Featuring fuel-injection, a powerful 32-bit processor engine control module, and integrated headlight cowl and instrument cluster, the new 800 brings large cruiser features to the middleweight segment.

Rejoining Suzuki's middleweight range is the traditionally styled Intruder C800. Featuring valanced guards, chrome in abundance and convenient features like shaft drive, the C800 too echoes the styling of its larger sibling, the C1800RT.

(Note: Images show optional extra seat cover on M1500).

Run in conjunction with the Straightliners Championship, the weekend, supported by Suzuki GB, encouraged owners of the Hayabusa to participate both on and off the track, thanks to the unique 'Run What You Brung' class of racing, that allows anyone to try their hand at drag racing.

With in excess of 500 Hayabusa riders in attendance, the event even offered prizes for the fastest standard and modified Hayabusa's, along with a test fleet of bikes enabling riders to try the very latest Suzuki machinery on the road, while given a free ride assessment from Warwickshire Police's Bike Safe initiative.

Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman, commented, "A big thank you to all who made the Hayabusa's tenth birthday celebrations so special. With the help of the Straightliners team, we were able to join with our customers to celebrate a decade of the Busa at its spiritual home - the drag strip. Here's to another ten years!"

With specific Suzuki race classes, Saturday's standard class was won by Motorcycle News' Adam Child, posting an impressive time of 10.01 and 143mph, with the modified class won by Mike Grainger. Sunday's honours went to Dennis Sinanan in the standard class with Mike Grainger taking the modified category once again.

And it wasn't just on the ground where the celebrations took place, as Barrie McPhilbin of Nottinghamshire was the lucky winner of the helicopter ride, thanks to Ventbrook Air.

Available until the end of October, customers can finance the Burgman 400 from as little as £108.74 per month, the B-King from £203.72 and the legendary Hayabusa for just £243.94.

Suzuki GB's Paul de Lusignan commented, "We're delighted to extend our low-rate finance offer. With a diverse selection of bikes, low deposits and low monthly payments, it comes as no surprise that we've been encouraged by our dealers to extend this promotion. With the B-King available at its new recommended retail price of just £7,995 and included in this offer, it's easy to see why this offer appeals."

As well as low monthly payments, customers can benefit from low deposits too of just £1,000.

Model: Burgman 400

On the road price: £4,798

Amount of finance: £3,798

Deposit: £1,000

36 monthly payments: £108.74

Total amount payable: £4,914.64

APR: 2.0%

Finance underwritten by Close Motorcycle Finance. Usual finance conditions apply. Finance subject to status. Offer ends 31st October 2009.

After the launch of the hugely popular GSX650F in 2007, that went on to win the Motorcycle News 'Sports Tourer of the Year' award, the new 1250 offers all the advantages of its smaller sibling, with the impressive mile-munching attributes that the 1255cc engine brings.

Built around a traditional classic tube frame, the GSX1250FA features rake and trail figures (25.3 degrees and 104mm) that maintain a great balance between sporty handling and reassured stability. With 43mm front forks and the single rear shock absorber featuring spring pre-load adjustability, the GSX1250FA performs whether riding solo or pillion.

Featuring Suzuki's proven 1255cc power-plant, the new model packs a mighty punch, with a flexible engine that's as happy pulling from low down the rev range as it is higher up. Equipped with Suzuki's sophisticated digital fuel injection system, the GSX1250FA offers superb throttle response and feel with improved range and reduced emissions. This, combined with highlights such as large intake (31mm) and exhaust (27mm) valves, Suzuki's own nickel-phosphorous-silicon-carbide cylinder coating, to reduce piston friction and a 6-speed gearbox, make the new 1250 set to be one of the best performing and versatile machines on the market.

And it's not just performance and agility on offer, as the GSX1250FA offers digital ABS as standard for added peace of mind and an adjustable seat. With handy additions such as a gear position indicator and shift light as part of the functional and easy to read instrument cluster, the rider is kept fully-informed.

Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman: "Naturally we are delighted to welcome the GSX1250FA to the range for 2010. The GSX650F has proven to be extremely popular and we have no doubt that the 1250 will follow in its footsteps. While it's too early to talk of a price, we expect the new bike to be competitive, offering a versatile and sporty ride that doesn't bust the bank."

For more information on the GSX1250FA, click here.

To celebrate 100 years of innovation and 25 years of GSX-R, Suzuki GB has launched an online competition, inviting fans to submit their favourite Suzuki picture for the chance to have it displayed on this year's show stand.

As well as having your picture on display in front of thousands of show-goers, the winning submission will also receive a pair of complimentary tickets for the show too.

With 100 picture spaces to be filled and a pair of tickets, all you need to do is upload your favourite Suzuki related images to the Suzuki GB website before November 6th and simply sit back and wait for the votes from fellow enthusiasts.

Suzuki GB's marketing manager, George Cheeseman commented, "While 100 years is a huge milestone for Suzuki, none of this would have happened without the loyal following of our customers. For this reason our desire is to give something back, offering a unique pictorial story of Suzuki through our customers eyes."

To both upload and vote, click here.

Launched to the UK public in 1999, the GSX1300R Hayabusa was an instant hit, delivering more performance in a standard road-going machine than ever before. Undergoing only one major update in its ten-year history, the Hayabusa remained faithful to its original concept, quickly becoming a cult bike the world-over and the preferred choice of drag racers and top-speed record protagonists the world over.

Talking about the special birthday bash, that runs as part of the final round of the ACU and Straightliners drag championships, was Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman: "Naturally we're delighted to confirm this special event at Santa Pod to celebrate ten years of the Hayabusa. It's an iconic machine that has captured the hearts of thousands of riders across the globe, and so it's only fair we honour it in this way, while we thank those who have made it so successful."

As well as giving riders the opportunity to try their hand at drag racing for just £30, the event will also host the final round of the UK Stunt Riding Championship with Suzuki supported rider Mattie Griffin, along with the Extreme Muscle Bike display. Running on both Saturday and Sunday, with customers able to camp from Friday evening, attendees can participate in the 'Run What You Brung' classes on both days, with a special Suzuki GB trophy for riders competing on standard and mildly modified machines. On top of this Suzuki will also offer road test rides on a number of machines, including the Hayabusa powered B-King.

Highlights Include:

• Unlimited Run What You Brung Track Action*
• ACU Drag Racing Championship Finals
• Straightliners Championship Finals
• Suzuki Roadshow & Test Rides
• Hayabusa & B-King Secure Parking
• Technical Workshop
• Retail Area
• Helicopter Rides
• Live Band
• Refreshments Tent

Admission costs £10 per day, with children under 16 free. A weekend ticket costs £25.00 with camping from Friday evening provided free of charge. Unlimited track action costs £30.00 per day. Terms and conditions apply to track action. Participants of the test ride must bring both parts of driving licence to qualify.

For more information on this event - including ticket info - click here

For press accreditation at the event, please contact the Suzuki GB Press Office.

Suzuki in 2009 - 100 Years of Innovation

Available on Suzuki's tyre-shredding range of hyper bikes, the imposing B-King and mighty Hayabusa can be financed for as little as £203.72 and £243.94 per month respectively, while both benefit from a deposit as low as £1,000.

Suzuki GB's Paul de Lusignan commented, "We're delighted to offer both the Hayabusa and B-King on this new low-rate finance offer. With the Hayabusa celebrating its 10th birthday this year and the B-King powered by its legendary 1340cc engine with a new recommended retail price of just £7,995, this offer really does bring power to the people."

Typical Examples:

Model: GSX1300R Hayabusa

On the road price: £9,521

Amount of finance: £8,521

Deposit: £1,000

36 monthly payments: £243.94

Total amount payable: £9,781.84

APR: 2.0%

On the road price: £8,116

Amount of finance: £7,116

Deposit: £1,000

36 monthly payments: £203.72

Total amount payable: £8,333.92

APR: 2.0%

Suzuki GB has announced an extension to one of its biggest ever finance campaigns, with the 14 model 0% APR finance offer extended until 30th September 2009.

Applicable on GSX-R600 and 750 models, all Bandit 1250 and V-Strom 650 variants, and GSX650F, SV650 Sport and DR125SM machines, the offer has given buyers a wide choice and variety of Suzuki machines, while placing a minimum deposit of just £500.

Commenting on the extension, Suzuki GB’s Paul de Lusignan, commented, “This campaign has been a great success for us and so it made perfect sense to extend it for a further three months. With our dealers able to offer bespoke payments to suit personal needs, it really has become an exceptional offer in a tough market."

Models included in the promotion are:

GSX-R750, GSX-R600 Bruce Anstey, GSX-R600, Bandit 1250SA Grand Touring, Bandit 1250 SAZ, Bandit 1250SA, Bandit 1250 Streetfighter, Bandit 1250, V-Strom 650A Grand Touring, V-Strom 650A, V-Strom 650X, GSX650F, SV650 Sport, DR125SM.

Riding his Suzuki GSX-R600 based machine at the Elvington Airfield, Griffin advanced through to the final with the highest qualifying score, going on to push himself and the bike to the limits in the final to secure the round victory and lead in the series standings.

Griffin commented, “Obviously I’m delighted with the win, but the series lead is important and I couldn’t start in a better way. With the following rounds being held over the summer at the Santa Pod dragstrip in Northamptonshire and again at Elvington, I look forward to continuing my form, while entertaining crowds across the UK this summer.”

To celebrate his victory, Griffin will be putting on a special homecoming show next Wednesday (3rd June) at the Race Village in Galway Docks at 6PM, as part of the Volvo Round the World Ocean Race.

For further information you can visit Mattie's website at www.mgstuntriding.com