Once considered too radical by some, today the Suzuki Katana is in big demand from a cult following. This example recently for sale on eBay appears to be in prime “survivor” condition.
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’80s Survivor
A machine may be renovated and restored by time-served specialists many times over, but it will only be in its original condition once. This would appear to be the case with this sensational 1982 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana.
This isn’t the first bike we’ve featured from this seller, who assures in the listing that it has been fastidiously taken care of and stored over the years. Using eBay’s close-up feature on the images does indeed reveal a machine that appears to have been well cared for.
The only non-original item on display is the carbon-effect tank protector. It seems to have done a good job of shielding the paint from the inevitable marks usually caused by a zipper.
Aside from the protector, this Katana still appears as Suzuki intended, clean and presented beautifully. Look closely and you’ll find just the right amount of patina on parts like the brake calipers - opens in new window or tab. and the way-cool suede pillion seat. This indicates a full restoration has likely not taken place.
Design Revolution
The effect this striking motorcycle had on the two-wheeled world cannot be understated.
Not everyone loved it, but few ignored it. In fact, the Suzuki Katana lacked fans in the US. Officially released in 1980, it seems that 1982 was the last year the Katana was available in the States, where it was unofficially replaced by the softer-styled GSX1100E.
A degree of Stateside indifference to the challenging styling was reflected in general worldwide sales, which initially fell short of expectations before stabilizing. This is a shame, as the Suzuki Katana was a stable and very fast bike for its day. The air-cooled 1,100-cc motor - opens in new window or tab. has all of the character associated with air-cooled Japanese four-cylinder machines. It coughs up a healthy 111 horsepower, giving the angular Suki a top speed north of 140 mph.
No Match
At the time, Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha could not quite match that kind of power and sensational performance. But as impressive as that was, the Katana will always be best remembered for its styling. German firm target DESIGN - opens in new window or tab. was a very young and innovative consultancy in the late ’70s. They went on to work with the likes of BMW, Audi, and MV Agusta. Suzuki boldly approached them to give the Katana a distinct identity, and the result was this striking, angular, semi-faired design. At a time when fast bikes were simply getting bigger and heavier, Suzuki refocused the sports bike segment, dragging the biking world into the ’80s kicking and screaming with the Katana.
The world’s first-ever design-house motorcycle is still a perfectly usable machine today. If you need parts, eBay can help, as always - opens in new window or tab..
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.