Market Position:
The Suzuki GSX-R400 was a groundbreaking sportbike in its era, establishing the GSX-R lineage. It offered performance comparable to larger displacement bikes in a lighter, more nimble package, carving out a niche in the 400cc class for riders seeking premium sportbike technology and styling. It was a direct competitor to other Japanese 400cc sportbikes of the period.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors included models like the Honda CB-1, Yamaha FZR400, and Kawasaki ZZR-400. The GSX-R400 stood out with its focus on race-replica styling, advanced (for its time) suspension and braking, and a high-revving inline-four engine.
Key Features:
Lightweight aluminum alloy frame, sophisticated suspension (often including adjustable front forks and a linkage-driven monoshock rear), aerodynamic fairing, potent inline-four engine, powerful disc brakes, and aggressive rider ergonomics.
Braking System Front:
Dual hydraulic disc brakes with multi-piston calipers
Braking System Rear:
Single hydraulic disc brake
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Periodic Maintenance, Engine, FI System Diagnosis, Fuel System and Throttle Body, Exhaust System, Cooling and Lubrication System, Chassis, Electrical System, Servicing Information, Emission Control Information, Wiring Diagram
Page Count:
Estimated 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Dealership Level Accuracy:
Yes, the manual is stated to be the same used by dealership technicians.
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Compatibility:
Windows/Mac
Additional Coverage:
And More...
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, transmission, clutch, brakes (front and rear), suspension (front telescopic forks, rear monoshock), steering, wheels, tires, electrical system (charging, starting, lighting, instruments), chassis components, frame, bodywork
Wiring Diagram Detail:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams included, detailing the electrical system for accurate troubleshooting and repair.
Emission Control:
Information pertaining to emission control systems and their servicing is included.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, engine tuning, carburetor adjustment (if applicable to specific sub-models), fuel injection diagnosis and repair, ignition system troubleshooting, valve clearance adjustment, clutch inspection and replacement, brake system bleeding and overhaul, suspension fork service, carburetor cleaning and synchronization, electrical system diagnostics, wiring harness repair, frame inspection, general troubleshooting, disassembly and reassembly of all major components
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common problems, including the FI system.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for dealership technicians; detailed step-by-step instructions, diagnostic procedures, specifications, and torque values
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
Printable pages, allowing for high-quality reproduction of text and diagrams
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - User Dependent)
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, inline-four cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 54.0 mm x 41.2 mm
Power Output:
Approx. 53-59 hp @ 11,000-12,000 rpm (varies by market and specific model year)
Torque:
Approx. 35-38 Nm @ 10,000-11,000 rpm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 10.2:1 (varies by model year)
Fuel Delivery:
Mikuni carburetors (e.g., Mikuni VM20SS or similar, depending on specific model year/market) or early electronic fuel injection (FI) system on later models (as suggested by manual content).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 16-17 liters
Lubrication Type:
Wet sump
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.0 liters with filter change
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards of the era)
Active Features:
Powerful dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, responsive suspension system, grippy tires
Passive Features:
Robust frame construction, aerodynamic fairing for rider protection from elements.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km or 6 months
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000-10,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-15,000 km
Engine Oil Type:
API SE or SF, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (consult manual for exact recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with distilled water (50/50 mix)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific type)
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W or SAE 15W (consult manual for precise grade and quantity)
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (if hydraulic clutch)
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.8-1.0 liters
Known Issues:
Carburetor synchronization issues, potential for camshaft wear on high-mileage engines, electrical connector corrosion, aging rubber components (hoses, seals), CDI unit reliability concerns on older units.
Brand Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history of performance motorcycles, with the GSX-R line becoming an icon of sportbike performance. The GSX-R400 was a crucial model in establishing this reputation in the mid-80s.
Model Evolution:
The GSX-R400 initially featured carburetors and evolved to include fuel injection on some later variants within this production window. Its design philosophy, emphasizing light weight and high performance, set the stage for subsequent GSX-R models.
Engine Development:
The engine was a high-performance unit designed for the 400cc class, featuring advanced cooling and lubrication systems for its time.
Production Years:
1985-1987 (for this specific manual coverage)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
