Motorcycle Suzuki Bandit (Suzuki Bandit) GSF1200 brief review

More than twenty years ago, in contrast to its competitors, the Japanese company Suzuki released a couple of motorcycle models that later became legends. The line of these motorcycles received from.

On the one hand, the company wanted to use this name to indicate the cocky character of its motorcycles, on the other, to somehow distinguish its motorcycles from the bikes of other companies, which usually simply had a factory index given to the motorcycle.

Initially, the Suzuki Bandit was produced with two engines, 250 cc. cm (GSF 250) and 400 cc. cm (GSF 400). The production of motorcycles with these engines began in 1989.

The mid-90s made its own adjustments to motorcycle products. In those days, motorcycles with displacement engines became fashionable. The Suzuki company did not lag behind its competitors and added two more models to the “Bandits” line.

The first received a 600 cc engine. see, factory index - GSF 600. The second motorcycle added to the line was the most voluminous. The volume of its combustion chambers was 1200 cubic meters. see, this bike received the GSF 1200 index. It is this motorcycle that will be discussed below.

Motorcycle design

The Suzuki Bandit GSF 1200 model began its existence in 1996. In its architecture, the GSF 1200 was in many ways similar to other models of the Bandit series.

The same tubular frame, but slightly redesigned and increased in rigidity, telescopic forks in front and pendulum suspension with a central shock absorber in the rear, only the suspension was strengthened, taking into account the weight of the motorcycle.

Among the external equipment, the difference between the most voluminous “bandit” was the dashboard. It was equipped with a large number of information sensors, including a fuel sensor.

Also, this motorcycle was equipped with brake discs of a larger diameter than other versions of the Bandit line, and the width of the tires, naturally, was increased.

The GSF 1200 was produced in two types, which only affected the appearance of the motorcycle. So the GSF 1200 version was a typical “naked”; there were no plastic body kits on this motorcycle.

A version of the Suzuki Bandit GSF 1200 S was also produced, on which a front semi-fairing was installed, which transferred this motorcycle to the “sport-tourist” class.

The trump card of this motorcycle was the engine.

Having a large volume and sufficient power, this motorcycle was capable of accelerating over 200 km/h . Four cylinders installed in a row had a total volume of 1156 cubic meters. cm.

The air-oil cooling system prevented the engine from overheating. To ensure proper fuel supply to the cylinders, each of them was equipped with its own carburetor.

Unlike its smaller “brothers”, this motorcycle had a five-speed gearbox , but the drive remained the same - chain.

For lovers of large and powerful vehicles, we invite you to take a closer look at the Honda Valkyrie. Super cruiser from the Japanese concern Honda.

The younger brother of the Suzuki Bangit 1200 is disassembled in detail here. Technical characteristics and photo gallery.

Engine character

When reaching cruising speed (approximately 130 - 150 km/h), the motorcycle begins to show miracles of stability, it confidently goes in a straight line and reluctantly takes turns. The same is with the brakes, the process of stopping the “Bandit” is somehow inhibited, but only in the opposite sense. The discs spin and spin, the brakes are ineffective.

Maneuvering at low speed in car “taffy” allows you to appreciate the effectiveness of the oil clutch and gearbox. But for some reason there is a lot of unnecessary noise in the operation of the gearbox, and the clutch is a bit heavy in its working process. But then the motorcycle took to the track, and where did the heaviness and creaking shifting go? The Suzuki Bandit flew as easily as a swallow; the grumbling of the engine is somehow inconvenient to compare with the grumbling of a swallow, but with its chirping it is quite appropriate. The engine's thrust at medium and low speeds is music without a single false note.

Refinement of the engine continued partly on the assembly line, sometimes directly on the run-in stand, but the results of the adjustments were always visible.

One of the key improvements can be considered the installation of throttle sensors (TPS), replacement of Mikini carburetors, and changing the shape of the exhaust cams.

The engine undoubtedly dominates the design; it looks like the main element of the entire mechanism with an excellent amplitude of power and increasing speed.

Throughout the entire operating range of the motor, a part of particularly intense tension can be identified between 4000 rpm and 7000 rpm. The tachometer gives a figure of 3600 rpm. The speedometer shows only 100 km/h at this time. This is the most productive moment for the entire engine.

Changes made to the design

After the introduction of the GSF 1200 and before the end of production, this motorcycle was modified several times.
The first modification was to equip the motorcycle with an anti-lock brake system. This change was made to the design in 1997.

The following improvements were made in 2001, and the improvements were serious. We replaced the carburetors and installed throttle position sensors on them.

The oil cooler of the cooling system has increased in size. The gas distribution mechanism was reconfigured, which ensured smoother engine operation. The clutch was replaced with a reinforced one. Added another air filter.

They made some changes to the frame and suspension, which made the bike a little shorter and lower, which improved its handling. The seats and steering wheel were slightly changed, providing a more comfortable position for the driver. The stiffness of the shock absorbers was slightly reduced.

Well, they made adjustments to the appearance of the GSF 1200, although this affected the 1200F version more. She acquired a completely new half-fairing, on which two headlights were already installed. A common change for both versions was a change in the shape and volume of the fuel tank.

The Bandit GSF 1200 underwent the last changes in 2006, but the changes were no longer significant and they no longer affected the characteristics of the motorcycle.

The appearance was slightly altered, changing the shape of the side panels. The motorcycle has the ability to adjust the seat. The half-fairing of the 1200F version was modified and the mirrors were replaced. This is where the improvements ended.

Brief history of the model

1995 - start of production and sales. First generation. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit (Japan). Factory designation: GSF1200S.

1996 - the model is exported to other countries, in particular to Europe and North America. The appearance of modification S and versions with ABS (available only for S versions). Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200T, GSF1200ST + GSF1200SAT.

1997 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200V, GSF1200SV + GSF1200SAV.

1998 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200W, GSF1200SW + GSF1200SAW.

1999 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200X, GSF1200SX + GSF1200SAX.

2000 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200Y, GSF1200SY + GSF1200SAY.

2001 - restyling of the model. Second generation. The model gets new exterior styling, dashboard, frame, alternator, camshafts, oil cooler (larger size) and clutch. Mikuni BST36 carburetors are being replaced by new Mikuni BSR36 with throttle position sensor (TPS). It becomes possible to adjust the height of the saddle. The S version gets 6-piston calipers. Versions with ABS are no longer offered. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K1, GSF1200SK1.

2002 - the model receives a new switch. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K2, GSF1200SK2.

2003 - the model receives new steering column bearings, the light switch button is replaced with an alarm button. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K3, GSF1200SK3.

2004 - European versions receive a catalyst. Modifications appear in the original two-color coloring (they have the index Z and SZ). Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K4, GSF1200SK4.

2005 - no significant changes. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K5, GSF1200SK5.

2006 is the last year of production. The final version of the motorcycle. Versions with ABS appear. The dashboard becomes digital. The 6-piston calipers on the S version are replaced by 4-piston ones. Model: Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit + ABS; Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit + ABS (Japan, Europe, North America). Factory designation: GSF1200K6 + GSF1200AK6, GSF1200SK6 + GSF1200SAK6.

Technical characteristics of the Suzuki Bandit 1200

The main technical characteristics of the largest “Bandit” are given in the table:

Despite its high popularity, this motorcycle did not participate in official competitions. Although it was often used by professionals for street racing, as well as for performing various stunts.

Secondary market value

The Suzuki Bandit GSF 1200 model is currently out of production , but it is present on the secondary market. To become the owner of this “Bandit” you will need to pay an amount from $5,000 to $11,000. The price of the Suzuki Bandit 1200 largely depends on the year of production, the technical and external condition of the motorcycle itself.

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Features and model range of Suzuki Bandit GSF 1200

To create the first motorcycles, a steel duplex frame was used, which is similar to the frame of the Suzuki GSF 600 Bandit. Because of this, the model has become very popular both in Europe and America. The main features of the motorcycle include a frame, telescopic fork, reliable front brakes, discs and a 5-speed gearbox. Also important are the presence of ABS and an adjustable seat.

The Suzuki Bandit 1200 bike model was produced until 2007, then it was replaced by a motorcycle called the Suzuki Bandit 1250 GSF.

The model range of the series includes:

• Suzuki GSF250 Bandit.
• Suzuki GSF400 Bandit.
• Suzuki GSF600 Bandit.
• Suzuki GSF650 Bandit.
• Suzuki GSF750 Bandit.
• Suzuki GSF1250 Bandit.

And the main competitors of the Suzuki Bandit 1200 are:

• Honda CB 1000 / Honda CB 1300;
• Kawasaki ZRX 1200;
• Yamaha XJR 1200 / Yamaha XJR 1300.

Photo gallery

As stated above, the Suzuki Bandit 1200 motorcycle has been discontinued, and it will no longer be possible to buy a new model. But it’s still possible, and probably even necessary, to see what the motorcycle looked like during the period of its greatest popularity. A small photo selection of this motorcycle model.

Price and reviews

A Bandit 1200 model in good condition and without mileage costs about $3,000. This is for the first generation. Second generation devices cost about $5,000. The price of a used bike starts from one hundred thousand rubles.

The bike collected a lot of positive reviews. Buyers noted that the device is suitable not only for driving around the city, but also for long trips. A soft landing, comfortable seat and excellent handling make the Bandit one of the best vehicles for travel.