Market Segment:
Performance motorcycle, 'Superbike' category of its era.
Key Competitors 1984:
Honda CB1100F, Kawasaki GPz1100, Yamaha XS1100.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, DOHC, inline-four cylinder engine, a Suzuki hallmark.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on strong mid-range torque and high-speed cruising capability.
Handling Characteristics:
Known for stable handling and comfortable ergonomics for its class.
Engine System:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, and component servicing.
Fuel System:
Carburetor diagnosis, tuning, disassembly, and reassembly (Mikuni VM Series).
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system, timing adjustments, component testing.
Transmission System:
Gearbox inspection, clutch service, shift mechanism adjustments.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork servicing, rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement, swingarm maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system servicing, caliper overhaul, fluid replacement, pad inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), lighting, battery service.
Bodywork Frame:
Frame inspection, fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, and minor body panel adjustments.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, carburetor tuning, brake caliper overhaul, fork seal replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common issues and symptoms.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation.
Depth Level:
Full factory-level repair and overhaul procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Digital Format Availability:
Typically available as PDF, but original is printed.
Print Quality Original:
High-quality factory printing on durable paper stock.
Binding Type Original:
Perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat use in a workshop.
Paper Type Original:
Durable, semi-gloss paper designed for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, inline 4-cylinder.
Displacement:
1074 cc (1075 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
78.0 mm x 55.0 mm
Horsepower Rating Claimed:
Approximately 105-110 PS (96-103 kW) at 8,500 rpm (DIN).
Torque Rating Claimed:
Approximately 9.0 kg-m (88 Nm; 65 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm.
Carburetor Type:
Four Mikuni VM34SS constant-velocity carburetors.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (AKI) or higher recommended.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change.
Oil Type Specification:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 API SE or SF classification.
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh manual gearbox.
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-plate, cable-actuated.
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain drive.
Gear Ratios:
See manual for specific gear ratios.
Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 hypoid gear oil.
Safety Ratings Era:
Motorcycles of this era did not have standardized crash test ratings like modern cars. Safety was primarily determined by rider skill and active accident avoidance.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Effective for its time.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, brake light, turn signals for visibility.
Frame Construction:
Strong steel frame (double cradle design) contributing to stability.
Infotainment System:
None. This is a 1984 motorcycle; technology focused on mechanical performance and reliability.
Driver Assistance Systems:
None. Rider inputs provide all control.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Ignition System Type:
Electronic Ignition (CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in rain.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,200 miles).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W (or as specified in manual, typically 10W).
Carburetor Wear:
Diaphragms and O-rings in Mikuni VM carbs can degrade over time, leading to tuning issues.
Charging System Reliability:
Original rectifiers/regulators can be a weak point; upgrades are common.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Gaskets and seals can harden with age, leading to minor oil leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Fork internals (seals, bushings) and rear shock absorbers can wear out, affecting ride quality.
Brand Focus 1980S:
Suzuki established itself as a major player in performance motorcycles with powerful, technologically advanced engines.
Gsx Series Legacy:
The GSX1100 was a direct descendant of the legendary GS1000 and a precursor to the GSX-R series, setting performance benchmarks.
Development Context:
Emerged during the 'superbike wars' of the late 70s and early 80s, a period of rapid advancement in motorcycle performance.
Production Period:
1980-1985 (for the first generation GSX1100).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan.
Industry Recognition:
Highly regarded in its time for performance and reliability, establishing Suzuki's reputation in the liter-class segment.
Performance Rankings Era:
Consistently ranked among the top performance motorcycles of its displacement class by automotive media outlets.
Certification Type:
Factory certified service documentation standards.
