The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana from Japan was powered by a 1075cc DOHC inline-4 producing 111hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade by contrast offered 1360cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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
| 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana | 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1075 cc | 1360 cc |
| Power | 111 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 95.0 Nm | 120.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 232.0 kg | 340.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 252.0 kg | 370.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 25.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Suzuki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana laid the groundwork with 111hp, while the later 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade pushed output to 100hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Suzuki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana and moderate for the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
Suzuki released the 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana in 1981 with a 1075cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 111hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana Profile →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 →