American Suzuki Motor Corporation announced to over 1,400 people, representing most of its nationwide dealers, that 2011 was “just the beginning,” at their annual dealer meeting in Las Vegas. At this annual business meeting, the American distributor of Suzuki motorcycles, ATVs and scooters introduced class-leading new products, networked with dealers and provided Suzuki Racing Team riders to sign autographs and thank dealers for their support.
American Suzuki directly addressed the motorcycle industry's struggles due to the nation's economy over the last two years, and presented a number of solutions to help dealers better face business challenges. A special presentation by senior vice-president/chief economist of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Martin Regalia, gave the Suzuki dealers’ perspective on the current condition of the improving economy, and how economic trends of the past can be used to benefit dealers and consumers. While American Suzuki presented new products and services to support its message, the company also made time to celebrate the accomplishments of a long list of dealers that have been with the company for more than 40 years.
Team racers and their race bikes from Suzuki were in attendance, including Rockstar Makita Suzuki’s Tommy Hayden, Blake Young, Josh Creamer and Dustin Wimmer. Geico Powersports RMR’s Danny Eslick, and Lucas Oil roadracingworld.com RMR’s Elena Myers were also on hand, as was National Guard’s Jake Zemke. The racers signed autographs and greeted fans from Suzuki’s national dealer network. A special award was presented to Josh Creamer for his championship-winning season on the QuadRacer R450. One big unveil was the addition of Australian rider Brett Metcalfe to the Rockstar Makita Suzuki motocross team, who will be joining newly-crowned AMA Supercross and Outdoor Motocross Champion Ryan Dungey as his teammate for the 2011 season. A special announcement was also presented recognizing the promotion of Mike Webb to Rockstar Makita Suzuki team manager, and Motocross/Supercross legend Ricky Carmichael being added as Suzuki Racing team advisor.
The main event of Suzuki’s annual dealer meeting was the unveiling of three new 2011 Suzuki models. The brand new GSX-R600 and GSX-R750 sportbikes, and GSX1250FA model were introduced to enthusiastic applause by the audience in attendance. The new GSX-R models are entirely new additions to the hallmark GSX-R sportbike line that exhibit the advanced technology developed through Suzuki racing. The GSX1250FA features a powerful 1255cc powerplant with aggressive sport styling and a comfortable ergonomic riding position. All three of these new models will be available in dealerships early in 2011, and will feature a range of genuine Suzuki accessories that will be made available to them.
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