 |
The
first Suzuki street bike to be truly modeled on race specifications
was the 1985 GSX-R750 which, while having evolved considerably
in the intervening years, is still in production and celebrates
its 20th Anniversary of production in 2005. An 1100 (1052cc)
model was released a year later. The 1985-1992 GSXR models
are Oilcooled, using a large oil radiator, and complicated
oil circulation systems. The first GSX-Rs are commonly
referred to as Slabside, or "slabbies" due to
their very flat side panels and tall narrow frames. GSX-R
750s from 1985-1988 are Slabside models, and the 1100
slabside was around 1986-1989. GSX-R750 slabbies weigh
approximately 178kg dry, and are 100 horsepower at the
crankshaft. GSX-R 1100 slabbies weigh 198kg dry and produce
130 horsepower at the crankshaft. Both respond to tuning
well and very little work is required to add 5-10 horsepower. |
|
|
Still
relatively powerful by current standards, especially given
their low weight, their main weaknesses are their handling,
being somewhat light and prone to head shakes (especially
the 750cc model), and brakes that are wooden and not very
powerful. Being somewhat lightly built for their power
subsequent models improved only modestly on horsepower
but substantially on thicker, strong frames and stronger
suspension. They can be hard to find these days, due to
their being a popular model for the 'boy racer' crowd,
but they hold value quite well and enjoy a modest cult
status. The second major revision of the GSX-R series
revolved around a new frame, styled after the then racing
frame. |
|
