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Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
89/100 Overall
80 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana vs Suzuki GSX-R1100
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana scores 89/100 overall against Suzuki GSX-R1100 on 86/100. On the road: 80–77. As classics: 98–95. Overall result: Suzuki GSX1100S Katana.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
86/100 Overall
77 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki Katana | Suzuki GSX-R1100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | Suzuki Katana |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 5 | Suzuki Katana |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Suzuki Katana |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Suzuki Katana |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
Choose the Suzuki Katana if…
you want radical landmark styling, strong superbike performance and unmistakable early-1980s design.
Choose the Suzuki GSX-R1100 if…
you want huge real-world performance, lightweight race-replica intent and the muscular character of Suzuki's big GSX-R.
Background
History
Suzuki Katana
The Suzuki GSX1100S Katana was produced from 1981–1983 and used a 1075cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
The Suzuki GSX-R1100 was produced from 1986–1998 and used a Air/oil-cooled DOHC inline four, later liquid-cooled. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and performance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Suzuki Katana
- Its production span in this library runs from 1981 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 1075cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1998.
- The recorded engine description is: Air/oil-cooled DOHC inline four, later liquid-cooled.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and performance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Suzuki Katana
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GSX1100S Katana. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GSX-R1100. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Suzuki Katana
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor or fuel-injection balance, charging output, cooling and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Suzuki Katana
Rivals to the Suzuki GSX-R1100
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki GSX1100S Katana wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki GSX1100S Katana takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.