Suzuki Bandit 400 - technical characteristics of the motorcycle

— a model of a
Suzuki
.

The classic road motorcycle Suzuki GSF 400 Bandit model appeared in 1989 and was initially available only in the Japanese domestic market. Since 1991, the model begins to be officially supplied to Europe and North America. In the vast majority of cases, domestic Japanese modifications are present on the Russian market.

The basis of the Suzuki Bandit 400 was an in-line 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a volume of 398 cm³ and producing 59 hp. power and 38 Nm of torque. Since 1993, due to changes in Japanese legislation, the maximum engine power was reduced to 53 hp. This engine was not independently developed, but migrated from the sports model Suzuki GSX-R400.

In 1991, Suzuki GSF400 Bandit introduced a new modification of the engine with a variable valve control system (VC - variable valve control). Due to the characteristic red color of the cylinder head cover, this modification was called “red-headed”, and the usual modification with a simple engine without this system is called “gray-headed”. Both modifications existed on the market in parallel for almost the entire production period of the model. The “red-headed” modification is also distinguished by red brake discs (inner side) and the presence of the letter “V” in the factory designation. This engine was also installed on a sports tourer - Suzuki RF400.

In 1995, the model underwent a slight restyling, receiving an aluminum swingarm, suspension settings, a new seat and a retuned VC variable valve timing system. This generation is also distinguished by its frame number - GK7AA. The previous generation had a frame with the index - GK75A.

1997 was the last year of production of the Suzuki Bandit 400 model, although official sales of new motorcycles continued until 2000.

Currently, the model is very popular in Russia as one of the cheapest Japanese motorcycles for beginners. The motorcycle is also present in large numbers at Japanese auctions.

Brief history of the model

1989 - start of production and sales. The first generation is GK75A. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit (Japan). Factory designation: GSF400K.

1990 - appearance of a limited version. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit, Suzuki GSF400 Bandit Limited (Japan). Factory designation: GSF400NK, GSF400Z.

1991 - appearance of the “red-headed” modification. Starting this year, models are also exported. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit, Suzuki GSF400 Bandit VC (variable valve control), Suzuki GSF400 Bandit Limited V (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF400M, GSF400VM, GSF400VZM.

1992 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit; Suzuki GSF400 Bandit VC (variable valve control) (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF400N, GSF400NP; GSF400VP.

1993 - due to changes in Japanese legislation, maximum power is reduced to 53 hp. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit; Suzuki GSF400 Bandit VC (variable valve control) (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF400VR; GSF400VZP.

1994 - model not produced.

1995 - restyling of the model. Second generation - GK7AA. The model receives an update in appearance and chassis. The wheelbase was reduced, the type of footpeg brackets was changed, a new seat and a new aluminum swingarm were obtained. Fuel tank capacity is reduced from 16.0 to 15.0 liters. Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit; Suzuki GSF400 Bandit VC (Japan). Factory designation: GSF400S; GSF400VS.

1996 - model not produced.

1997 is the last year of production.

Model: Suzuki GSF400 Bandit VC; Suzuki GSF400 Bandit Limited V (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF400V-V; GSF400VZ-V.

What's special about the design?

If you believe the reviews of motorcyclists, the appearance of the Suzuki bandit 400 is special. The vehicle looks aggressive, solid and modern. This model is recognizable due to the following features: ]

1. The round headlight located at the front will appeal to most old-school types.
2. Almost complete absence of various linings and body kits made of plastic. This makes the motorcycle look more rugged and has a positive effect on its appearance.
3. Factory painted black or brown with gray or red segments.

Fans of such vehicles will be able to recognize the Suzuki bandit 400 at first sight.

Specifications

What's special about its design?

According to the instructions, the Suzuki bandit 400 was designed for movement on the streets of large cities. It has good maneuverability and is equipped with an engine suitable for its weight. The role of the basis of the motorcycle is played by a steel frame, the attachment point of which is reinforced with special castings. Manufacturers did not hide it under plastic covers. This solution has earned positive reviews from the owners, since the basis of the design inspires a feeling of power and reliability.

It is worth noting that there is nothing superfluous in the design. This is due to the fact that the engine and frame fit perfectly together without leaving any kind of roughness. The radiator is located under the fork behind the front wheel. This structural element performs its functions well related to engine cooling.

A special feature of the Suzuki bandit 400 is its very soft front suspension, which has received good reviews. This occurs because the vehicle is aimed primarily at the Japanese market. To drive on Russian roads, you need to make tuning.

The rear suspension is a little simpler and includes a special pendulum equipped with a system responsible for adjusting the compression ratio of the springs. Thus, it can be customized both to the individual needs of the owner and to the specific road surface.

Is it worth buying a Suzuki GSF Bandit

As a rule, interest in the Suzuki Bandit is shown either by ardent fans of Japanese motorcycles or by experienced bikers who want to “try” the highly praised motorcycle. GSF will not disappoint either the first or the second if the potential buyer has the financial capacity for professional technical maintenance. Otherwise, you should look at a more budget-friendly version of the motorcycle.

It is difficult to recommend the Suzuki Bandit to novice motorcyclists, since the bike, as mentioned above, is quite expensive to maintain. In addition, it is necessary to remember that the Japanese is very sharp, dynamic and generally requires high driving skills.

Advantages of the Suzuki Bandit motorcycle

Whether in person or in photos, the Suzuki Bandit is likely to be misleading. The reason is that the bike looks quite discreet in appearance and has modest dimensions, while under the saddle there is a powerful 4-cylinder engine. Based on this, it is worth evaluating the Suzuki Bandit motorcycle. The bike is very responsive, has good dynamics characteristics - 5 seconds to 100 km/h.

Motorcycles equipped with high-power engines and aimed at ordinary motorcyclists traveling mainly within the city are subject to increased safety requirements. First of all, these are the brakes. Suzuki GSF400 is equipped with a braking system that copes well with a powerful engine. The front ones are made in the form of paired huge disks (310 mm each), while the rear ones are single, similar to disk ones (250 mm).

The motorcycle frame has increased strength and is designed like a “birdcage”.

What's good and bad about it?

Like any technology, the vehicle in question has both positive and negative sides. Advantages include:

1. Good motor.
2. High dynamics.
3. Brisk acceleration.
4. Unique appearance.
5. A solid base is what the frame plays.
6. A price accessible to a large number of buyers.

The motorcycle is quite aggressive and tends to accelerate with a jerk. Beginners need to remember that the described vehicle has short gears. When driving in urban conditions, you will have to switch between them often.

This model is well suited for experienced motorcyclists who feel confident on the road surface when driving at high speed. The disadvantage is that the vehicle was originally designed for Japanese citizens. This leads to the following disadvantages:

1. Short and rather low frame. Such features may cause inconvenience to a tall person.
2. There is no way to correct the situation using tuning. There is nowhere to move the racks and it is also impossible to change the landing.
3. The aggressiveness mentioned above is a disadvantage if we are talking about a driver who does not have the necessary experience to use it correctly.

From the above we can conclude that the Suzuki gsf 400 bandit does not cope well with the role of the first motorcycle for a novice driver.

External links [edit]

• Suzuki GSF600 Bandit (1996-2005) review
• Suzuki GSF650 Bandit (2005-2006) review
• Suzuki GSF650 Bandit (2007-2012) review
• Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit (1996-2006) review
• Suzuki GSF1250 Bandit (2007-2012) review
• Review of Suzuki GSF1250S Bandit (2015) (aka Bandit 1250S on Suzuki Japan)
• Review of Suzuki GSX 1250F (2010 onwards) (aka Bandit 1250F on Suzuki Japan)

Links[edit]

1. "Suzuki Bandit 600s". www.motorbikestoday.com
   .
2. "Bandit 1200S on test". www.motorbikestoday.com
   .
3. Willie's School
4. "SUZUKI Bandit250 (GSF250) GJ74A SPECIFICATIONS AND DATA". www.synapse.ne.jp
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5. "HISTORY OF THE SUZUKI Bandit400 (GSF400) GK75A/GK7AA". www.synapse.ne.jp
   .
6. ↑ Bike
   , November 2006, page 108
7. ↑
   Bike, January 2007, page 184
8. ↑
   Motor Cycle News, November 12, 2008
9. "Daily Telegraph Review".
10. ^ ab "Specifications - Bandit 1200s - 2006". Suzuki website
    . Suzuki Australia Pty Limited. Retrieved January 8, 2015.
11. ^ abcd "Bandit of the 1200s - 2006". Suzuki website
    . Suzuki Australia Pty Limited. Retrieved January 8, 2015.
12. ^ a b Urry, John (2013-04-13). "Road Test: Suzuki Bandit 1200 vs 1250". Wisordown
    . Retrieved May 9, 2016.
13. ^ ab "Specifications | Bandit 1250s | 2007". Suzuki website
    . Suzuki Australia Pty Limited. Retrieved January 8, 2015.
14. ^ abcd Kahne, Don (July 2007). "Comparative test of Suzuki Bandit 1250S and Yamaha FZ1." Bicycle World
    . However, if you crave real power, classic style, refinement and greater versatility, the Suzuki Bandit is the one for you.
15. ↑
    Bike, November 2006, page 109
16. "2007 Suzuki Bandit 1250". web.archive.org
    . April 21, 2007
17. American Suzuki Motor Co. Brochure Part No. 99922-07309 Printed 6/12
18. "Global Suzuki" (PDF).
19. "Bandit 1250s | 2008 | Sport Sport Touring | Road | Suzuki Motorcycles, Motorcycles and ATVs Australia".
20. "London 24 Report".
21. "New Bike: Suzuki Unveils 2010 GSX1250FA". www.motorcyclenews.com
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22. "Global Suzuki". Archived from the original on September 23, 2009.
23. Brasfield, Evans (September 30, 2014). "Intermot 2014: 2015 Suzuki Bandit 1250S ABS". Motorcycle.com
    . VerticalScope. Retrieved January 9, 2015. ... The fairing modernizes this venerable platform, giving a fresh take on an old favorite.
24. "GSF1250SA" . Global Suzuki
    . Suzuki Motor Corporation. Archived from the original on January 9, 2015. Retrieved January 9, 2015.
25. Roderick, Tom (2011-04-21). "2011 Suzuki GSX1250FA Review: Old Bandit Transformed into an Economical Sports Tourer". Motorcycle.com
    . Retrieved September 6, 2016.
26. Garlitos, Kirby (2011-12-29). "2012 Suzuki GSX1250FA". TopSpeed.com
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    Retrieved September 4, 2016. Garlitos, Kirby (09/04/2015). "Suzuki GSF1250 and GSX1250 Receive CARB Certification". TopSpeed.com
    . Retrieved April 9, 2016.
27. "GSX150 Bandit". Suzuki Indonesia
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28. Vijay, Vibin P. (August 3, 2018). "The all-new Suzuki Bandit 150 is officially presented at GIIAS 2018".
29. "Liputan Langsung BIMS 2022: Suzuki GSX-150 Bandit Resmi Rilis di Thailand, Mirip Versi Indonesia - GridOto.com". www.gridoto.com
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