Race Series Camshafts for GSX-R600: Performance Upgrade Guide
By Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc. | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Product Reviews
Upgrade your 2011-14 GSX-R600 with Yoshimura Race Series camshafts. This guide covers benefits, fitment, and key decision rules for choosing the ST-R Type-S camshaft.
Quick answer
If you own a 2011-14 Suzuki GSX-R600 and want a proven power increase without a full engine build, the Yoshimura ST-R Type-S camshafts are a strong upgrade. They deliver more mid-to-top end power and are precision ground from billet blanks in Japan.
Why upgrade camshafts on a GSX-R600?
The stock camshafts on the GSX-R600 are designed for a broad powerband that works well for street riding and general track days. A dedicated performance camshaft like the Yoshimura ST-R Type-S shifts the power curve higher in the rev range, where the 600 engine naturally makes its best power. This can translate to better acceleration out of corners and a stronger top-end pull on the straight.
What makes Yoshimura Race Series camshafts different?
Unlike some budget options that are welded and reground from stock cores, Yoshimura ST-R Type-S camshafts are precision ground from new billet blanks using high-tolerance equipment. This means the cam lobes maintain their intended profile and hardness, which is critical for consistent valve timing and long-term reliability. They are also made in Japan from premium materials.
What about installation complexity?
Installing camshafts is an intermediate-to-advanced engine task. You will need to remove the valve cover, timing chain, and cam sprockets. The ST-R Type-S camshafts come with adjustable sprockets, which allow you to dial in the timing for your specific setup. However, you will also need thicker tappet shims than stock—approximately 1mm thicker. This is not a plug-and-play job; plan for additional parts and time.
Decision rules for choosing Race Series camshafts
- Riding style: If you spend most of your time riding on the street below 8,000 RPM, a camshaft upgrade may not give you the benefits you expect. The power gains are concentrated in the mid-to-top end, so this upgrade is best for riders who regularly use the upper rev range. Consider your typical RPM range before purchasing.
- Supporting mods: Camshafts work best when paired with a full exhaust system, a performance air filter, and a proper ECU flash or fuel controller. Without these supporting mods, you may not see the full power potential. Plan your entire engine package before starting the install.
- Budget and effort: The camshafts themselves are $769.68, but you will also need thicker tappet shims, possibly new valve springs, and a tune. Installation is not a beginner job; if you are not comfortable with engine internals, factor in professional labor costs. Add 20-30% to the camshaft price for shims and tuning.
Product facts
- SUZUKI GSX-R600 2011-14 Camshafts ST-R TYPE-S: Our camshafts are precision ground from billet blanks using high-tolerance equipment, not welded and reground. This means the cam profile and hardness are consistent, which is important for reliable valve timing and long engine life.
SUZUKI GSX-R600 2011-14 Camshafts ST-R TYPE-S - SUZUKI GSX-R600 2011-14 Camshafts ST-R TYPE-S: Yoshimura ST-R Type S camshaft requires approximately 1mm thicker tappet shim than stock. You will need to purchase thicker shims separately, adding to the total cost and requiring careful measurement during installation.
Is this upgrade right for you?
Best for
- Track-day riders who want more top-end power from their GSX-R600
- Owners of 2011-14 GSX-R600s who already have a full exhaust and ECU tune
Not for
- Street riders who rarely exceed 8,000 RPM
- Riders on a tight budget who cannot afford the additional shims and tuning costs
