Suzuki tests natural linen fiber composites in racing motorcycles

Suzuki Motor Corporation has been testing natural fiber composites in its racing motorcycles for several seasons. Documentation regarding the Team SUZUKI CN CHALLENGE GSX-R1000R identifies the use of unbleached natural linen fiber composites in the motorcycle's fenders.

In collaboration with Swiss company Bcomp and partner Tras, Suzuki is exploring these materials to address carbon neutrality challenges in motorsport. Bcomp representative Ken Kruck noted that the production of these natural fiber composites can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to traditional carbon fiber manufacturing. The materials used include ampliTex, a technical fabric, and powerRibs, a reinforcement grid, both composed of linen. While the application has been confirmed for competition models like the GSX-R1000R, specific data regarding exact weight reduction or the precise ratio of linen in the composite has not been released.