Tamiya Suzuki GSX1100S Katana Motorcycle (1/6)

This item is sold brand new. It is ordered on demand from our supplier and is usually dispatched within 3 - 5 working days

One of the most famous motorcycle shows in the world is held every two

years in Cologne, Germany, and the 1980 show is sure to stand out as

one of the most unforgettable. One reason was that Honda released their

CX500 turbo for the first time, and the second is that Suzuki's

GSX1100S "Katana" (Japanese for sword) was unveiled. The Honda CX500

attracted attention for its advanced engine techniques and the Katana

for its advanced and aggressive body styling, which broke from common

traditional motorcycle styling. Although the Katana GSX1100S styling

impressed the many thousands of viewers, almost everybody thought that

it was just for show and the production model would be quite different.

During the summer of 1981, Suzuki released the production Katana with

almost exactly the same body styling seen at the Cologne show, with

subtle improvements in the engine and running gear. The body styling is

from the genius of Mr. Hans A. Muth of West Germany, who spent much

time ensuring driver comfort in his design, and which proved out in

many wind tunnel tests. The entire styling was derived from research on

the best drivers position, and the rearward placed backsteps and unique

tank styling were not done just for the pleasing jet age appearance.

Large capacity fuel tank and small fairing were blended together for

the best airflow around the rider and the bike. Although the bike is

most noticable for its styling, every part in it, is quality.The engine

is an air-cooled, parallel 4 of 1075cc, using 16 valves. With the

unique Suzuki TSCC (Twin Swirl Combustion Chamber) in the engine, it

puts out 111 hp. This tremendous power transmits into a road speed of

230 k/h and its unique body styling keeps it stable even at these high

speeds. Suzuki shipped a 1000cc Katana GSX1000S to the American market,

and also a 750cc version to the European market. Requests from Japanese

enthusiasts prompted Suzuki to add a 750cc Katana GSX750S to their

market.