VS
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade and 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide are both iconic 1980s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade from Japan was powered by a 1360cc DOHC V-4 producing 100hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 340.0kg (750 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 350.0kg (772 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade from Japan was powered by a 1360cc DOHC V-4 producing 100hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 340.0kg (750 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 350.0kg (772 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade | 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1360 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 100 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 120.0 Nm | 105.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 340.0 kg | 350.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 370.0 kg | 380.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1640 mm | 1570 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 25.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade has the edge thanks to more power (100hp vs 65hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade and good for the 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade features a 1360cc DOHC V-4 engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade Profile →About the 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide
Born in 1980, the 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide is a 1338cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 65hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide Profile →