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The 1981 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana and 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 represent two chapters in Suzuki's storied history.
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 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 by contrast offered 1052cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 130hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 197.0kg (434 lbs) with a top speed of 265km/h (165 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 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 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 by contrast offered 1052cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 130hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 197.0kg (434 lbs) with a top speed of 265km/h (165 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 | 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1075 cc | 1052 cc |
| Power | 111 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 95.0 Nm | 98.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h | 265 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 232.0 kg | 197.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 252.0 kg | 218.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 20.0 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 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 pushed output to 130hp. 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.
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 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100
A sport bike from 1986, the 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 delivers 130hp from its 1052cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 Profile →