Suzuki GS450
| Manufacturer | Suzuki Motor Corporation |
|---|---|
| Production | 1980 |
| Predecessor | Suzuki 400 |
| Class | Naked bike |
| Engine | 448cc, 4-stroke cycle, air-cooled parallel twin, DOHC (Dual overhead camshaft), 2 cylinder |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain drive |
| Wheelbase | 1,405 mm (55.3 in) |
| Dimensions |
L: 2,080 mm (82 in) W: 800 mm (31 in) |
| Seat height | 790 mm (31 in) |
| Weight | 385 pounds (175 kg) (wet) |
| Fuel capacity |
17.0 l (3.7 imp gal; 4.5 US gal) 20.0 l (4.4 imp gal; 5.3 US gal) (from 2001) |
The GS450 was a Suzuki motorcycle produced in the early 1980s.
Model variants include the GS450E, GS450L, GS450S, GS450T, and GS450GA Suzukimatic. The GS450 series was a direct competitor to the Honda CM400 / CM450 series. The GS450A Suzukimatic was only produced for 2 years 1982 and 1983 coinciding with the change of the CM400A Hondamatic up to the CM450A, as a direct response to the GS450A Suzukimatic. Both the Suzukimatic and the Hondamatic ceased production after the 1983 model year.[1]
History
The 1980 Suzuki GS450 is a 448cc engine street racer bike that was first created by the Japanese manufacturer Suzuki in direct competition with Honda's CM series. It was put into production after its predecessor, the GS 400, which was manufactured from 1976-1981, and discontinued when its successor, the GS500, entered production from 1989-2009. The GS450 is considered a standard, a relatively small bike that can be extensively modified to suit a rider's taste.[2]
Specifications
The specifications of the bike include an 81.9 inch long, 19.5 inch wide frame, with a 31-inch seat height and 54.5 inch wheel base. Without fluids the bike weighs 385 pounds. It is able to carry 450 pounds of rider and luggage. Able to reach speeds of 100 mph (160kph) this motorcycle can take the rider where they want to go in a quick and stylish manner. An electric ignition and starter make for easy startup. It has been claimed that the twin cylinder motor can reach 55 mpg in a patient cruise.
Value
The value of the 1980 model ranges from $300 to $2055, depending on the bike's model, mileage, condition and modifications. Value also depends if the bike is in running condition. Value not running in good condition: $200–425 Value running in great condition with clean title $450–$2055.
Design
The 1980 GS model has a mix of German, Japanese and Italian sport bike styling which is simply dubbed "Eurostyle." Cycleworld notes that "the 450's suspension is not as efficient as the handling of the bike, yet this bike boasts one of the most soft supple rides of all small engine street bikes that no other bike with the same displacement can match." Because of the low handlebar placement and slightly rear-set foot pegs, the rider is put into a racer position when cornering.
Criticism
In cold weather, this bike takes at least five minutes to warm up.[3]
References
- ↑ Clymer: Suzuki GS400-450 Twins. 1977-1987. Chain Drive. Service, Repair, Maintenance. Overland Park, Kansas 66282: Intertec Publishing. 1989. p. 243. ISBN 0-89287-237-3.
- ↑ "Suzuki GS450S Cafe Racer". CaféRacersUnited.com. 3 October 2013. Retrieved 22 January 2015.
- ↑ Mathews, Alex (Oct 24, 2012). "1980 GS450S/1981 GS450L Review". N.P. Retrieved October 22, 2012.