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The 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana and 1990 Suzuki VX800 represent two chapters in Suzuki's storied history.
The 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana from Japan was powered by a 599cc DOHC inline-4 producing 85hp at 10500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1990 Suzuki VX800 by contrast offered 805cc of DOHC V-twin power, delivering 58hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 221.0kg (487 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana from Japan was powered by a 599cc DOHC inline-4 producing 85hp at 10500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1990 Suzuki VX800 by contrast offered 805cc of DOHC V-twin power, delivering 58hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 221.0kg (487 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 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
| 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana | 1990 Suzuki VX800 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 599 cc | 805 cc |
| Power | 85 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 55.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 221.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Suzuki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana laid the groundwork with 85hp, while the later 1990 Suzuki VX800 pushed output to 58hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 3/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Suzuki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana and moderate for the 1990 Suzuki VX800 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana
Introduced in 1988, the 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana features a 599cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 85hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1988 Suzuki GSX600F Katana Profile →About the 1990 Suzuki VX800
The 1990 1990 Suzuki VX800 packs a 805cc DOHC V-twin engine with 58hp into a standard motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1990 Suzuki VX800 Profile →