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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 GS850G
Suzuki GSX1100S Katana scores 89/100 overall against Suzuki GS850G on 77/100. On the road: 80–78. As classics: 98–75. Overall result: Suzuki GSX1100S Katana.
Suzuki GS850G
77/100 Overall
78 On the road75 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki Katana | Suzuki GS850 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| 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. | 10 | 8 | Suzuki Katana |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 7 | Suzuki Katana |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Suzuki Katana |
Choose the Suzuki Katana if…
you want radical landmark styling, strong superbike performance and unmistakable early-1980s design.
Choose the Suzuki GS850 if…
you want a durable shaft-drive classic with strong touring manners and traditional Suzuki four-cylinder character.
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 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?
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 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
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 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
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 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 Suzuki Katana
Rivals to the Suzuki GS850
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.