Positioning:
The Suzuki GSF1250 Bandit is a popular large-displacement naked sport-touring motorcycle known for its torquey engine and comfortable riding position.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-bore naked bikes and sport-tourers from manufacturers like Yamaha (FZ1), Kawasaki (Z1000), Honda (CB1100F - though older), and BMW (R1200R).
Engine Characteristic:
Liquid-cooled, 16-valve, DOHC, inline-four cylinder engine derived from the GSX-R1000, tuned for broad torque delivery.
Frame Design:
Sturdy steel twin-spar frame providing stability and handling.
Suspension Setup:
Adjustable front forks and a linkage-type rear suspension for rider customization.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a single rear disc brake, often with ABS as an option.
Benefit:
Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving significant costs associated with dealership labor.
Ease Of Use:
Designed with step-by-step instructions and visual aids to simplify complex procedures for users of varying skill levels.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 500+ pages (typical for a full service manual of this era)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Accessibility:
Downloadable, viewable on PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle bodies, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, timing
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanism, internal components, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Final drive, chain and sprockets, rear wheel hub
Suspension:
Front forks (including disassembly, oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber, linkage
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, caliper overhaul, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, switches, fuses, relays
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and comprehensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal and installation, fairing components
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant replacement
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, muffler, lambda sensors (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, tire pressure, brake checks, valve clearance checks
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission internal component rebuild procedures
Adjustments:
Throttle cable, clutch cable, idle speed, suspension settings
Calibration:
EFI system calibration (potentially requiring specific tools not always covered in generic manuals)
Installation:
Component installation procedures
Depth:
In-depth, professional quality, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Visuals:
Includes step-by-step pictures and diagrams
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, 16 valves
Displacement:
1255 cc (1.255 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
79.0 mm x 64.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Est:
~105 HP @ 8,000 RPM (approximate, varies by region and specific tuning)
Torque Est:
~100 Nm @ 6,500 RPM (approximate, varies by region and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual injectors per cylinder
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 Liters (4.4 Gallons)
Transmission Type:
Constant mesh 6-speed
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, hydraulic operation
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios available within the manual
Final Drive:
Sealed O-ring chain, 525 pitch
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Gear oil SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (refer to manual for precise specification and capacity)
Overall Length:
~2,130 mm (83.9 in)
Overall Width:
~760 mm (30.0 in) (Naked), ~790 mm (31.1 in) (Faired)
Overall Height:
~1,120 mm (44.1 in) (Naked), ~1,190 mm (46.9 in) (Faired)
Wheelbase:
~1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Dry Weight Est:
~215 kg (474 lbs) (Naked), ~225 kg (496 lbs) (Faired)
Wet Weight Est:
~230 kg (507 lbs) (Naked), ~240 kg (529 lbs) (Faired) (with all fluids)
Ground Clearance:
Sufficient for road use, detailed specification in manual
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not rated by traditional automotive crash test organizations)
Braking:
Powerful dual front discs with 4-piston calipers, single rear disc. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models/markets.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights for good illumination, LED taillight (depending on specific market variant).
Frame Integrity:
Robust steel twin-spar frame designed for stability and rider safety.
Ergonomics:
Designed for comfortable rider control and reduced fatigue during long rides.
Infotainment System:
N/A (This model predates integrated infotainment systems on motorcycles).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain models and markets, providing enhanced safety during braking.
Connectivity:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity features).
ECU:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel injection, ignition timing, and other engine parameters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact interval.
Oil Filter Interval:
Replace at every oil change.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), replace as needed.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months. Consult manual for precise interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, generally around 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Engine Oil Spec:
Suzuki recommends a high-quality 10W-40 or 10W-50 API SG or SH specification motorcycle oil with JASO MA rating. Consult manual for specific part numbers and viscosity grades for different temperature ranges.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 Liters (3.7 US qt) without filter change, 3.8 Liters (4.0 US qt) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Spec:
Mixture of high-quality engine coolant and distilled water (50/50 ratio). Use ethylene glycol-based coolant. Consult manual for specific Suzuki coolant part numbers or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid. Always use fresh, high-quality fluid.
Fork Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W) and quantity per fork leg. Suzuki part numbers often available.
Common Issues:
Potential for regulator/rectifier failure (common on many Japanese bikes of this era), clutch slave cylinder leaks, occasional minor electrical gremlins. Fueling at very low RPM can sometimes be slightly snatchy, though often manageable with careful throttle control or aftermarket tuning.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular cleaning and lubrication of the chain are crucial for longevity. Checking and topping up coolant levels is important. Ensure the cooling fan engages correctly. Keep battery terminals clean and tight.
Heritage:
Suzuki has a long and successful history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1950s, with iconic models across various categories.
Bandit Lineage:
The GSF1250 Bandit is part of the long-standing Bandit series, which began in the late 1980s with the GSF400. It evolved through various displacements (600, 650, 750, 1200) before the 1250 iteration, inheriting its reputation for value and performance.
Engine Origin:
The 1250cc engine is an evolution of the GSX1200 Inazuma engine, further refined and adapted from the powerful GSX-R1000 platform for a broader, more usable powerband.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Period:
The GSF1250 Bandit was produced from 2007 until around 2011-2012, before being replaced by newer models with different engine configurations (e.g., the GSX1250FA).
