Photo: Jon1234567 · Public domain
Honda CB900F
81/100 Overall
83 On the road78 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda CB900F vs Suzuki GS850G
Honda CB900F scores 81/100 overall against Suzuki GS850G on 77/100. On the road: 83–78. As classics: 78–75. Overall result: Honda CB900F.
Suzuki GS850G
77/100 Overall
78 On the road75 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Honda CB900F | Suzuki GS850 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Honda CB900F |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB900F |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB900F |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki GS850 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB900F |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 7 | Honda CB900F |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS850 |
Choose the Honda CB900F if…
you want a fast, practical Honda superbike with endurance-racing style and straightforward classic ownership.
Choose the Suzuki GS850 if…
you want a durable shaft-drive classic with strong touring manners and traditional Suzuki four-cylinder character.
Background
History
Honda CB900F
The Honda CB900F was produced from 1979–1983 and used a 901cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, performance, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki GS850
The Suzuki GS850G was produced from 1979–1988 and used a 843cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, comfort, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Honda CB900F
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1983.
- The recorded engine description is: 901cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, performance, styling.
Suzuki GS850
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1988.
- The recorded engine description is: 843cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, comfort, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Honda CB900F
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB900F. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki GS850
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GS850G. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. 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
Honda CB900F
- 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 GS850
- 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Honda CB900F
Rivals to the Suzuki GS850
Final result
The verdict
Honda CB900F wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda CB900F wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda CB900F takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.