Photo: John de Guerre · CC BY-SA 3.0
Kawasaki GPz750
84/100 Overall
78 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki GPz750 vs Suzuki GS850G
Kawasaki GPz750 scores 84/100 overall against Suzuki GS850G on 77/100. On the road: 78–78. As classics: 90–75. Overall result: Kawasaki GPz750.
Suzuki GS850G
77/100 Overall
78 On the road75 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Kawasaki GPz750 | Suzuki GS850 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki GS850 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 8 | Suzuki GS850 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 9 | Suzuki GS850 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Kawasaki GPz750 |
Choose the Kawasaki GPz750 if…
you want muscular early-1980s Kawasaki performance, distinctive GPz styling and a direct link to the developing superbike era.
Choose the Suzuki GS850 if…
you want a durable shaft-drive classic with strong touring manners and traditional Suzuki four-cylinder character.
Background
History
Kawasaki GPz750
The Kawasaki GPz750 was produced from 1982–1985 and used a 738cc air-cooled DOHC inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, historic importance. 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?
Kawasaki GPz750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: 738cc air-cooled DOHC inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
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
Kawasaki GPz750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki GPz750. Its library score for styling 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
Kawasaki GPz750
- 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 Kawasaki GPz750
Rivals to the Suzuki GS850
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Kawasaki GPz750 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki GPz750 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.