The two-stacked headlights consist of a projector-type on the bottom for low beam, and a multi reflector type up top for the main. Punching the smallest hole possible through the air, even the GSX-R’s turn signals have been given a new more aerodynamic shape, as well as being made lighter.

Out back is the tight looking tail section, with two sets of seven horizontal LED lights. The fuel tank is narrower and shorter this year to make life easier for the rider during cornering transitions, or getting hard on the brakes. I like being able to hook my outside leg under the small lip while resting my elbow on my knee, and it is helpful during tuck and squeeze time in the fast sections. The seat gives no complaint, serving as a useful work platform to slide on and off the bike, while giving enough room for my near six-foot frame while making hot laps onboard the high-revving six.

Out on the track, a lightening quick glance shows 245kph on the digital speedometer, with the tachometer needle hitting red line at 15,500 rpm in fifth as I approach the horseshoe. Rolling off the throttle and onto the brakes, I slide rearward to keep the back wheel on the floor. Down shifting, I dive left and rail round on a steadily increasing throttle, before nailing it back up to red line. Briefly hitting the limiter, it is time to get hard on the brakes before the tight uphill right-hander that leads to the first of Misano’s two chicanes.

Hanging way off to keep the tyres as upright as possible, I feed in the power and hold the same gear up the hill, before sending brake fluid to the eight pistons down at the front wheel. Clipping the kerb into the chicane, I effortlessly flick the bike left for the run up to the top horseshoe. Third gear ends a tad bit short of the corner, but to save two shifts I hold it on the limiter before arcing through the corner. Accelerating to the red line, I indulge in the intoxicating intake roar that resonates as the engine rips past 9,000rpm. Flicking through the chicane, a good drive has the bike screaming onto the front straight, knee puck skimming the tarmac as I attempt to ignore the concrete three feet to my right.

Flashing across the start/finish line it is time to start another lap. Riding harder and more aggressively on the 161kg Suzuki GSX-R600 than I have in a while, the bike takes it all in its stride. Totally in control, it exudes confidence from every pore and is going to make a hero out of anyone that takes it to the track. Now all I have to do is figure out how to write about it without sounding like an advertising campaign…

The 2004 GSX-R600 will be launched in Australia for a very competitive $14,790 plus on road costs.