In 1975, Honda started the legendary Gold Wing line with the GL1000. For the first time, Honda incorporated a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine which produced 999cc. Five years later, in 1980, Honda launched the GL1100 Gold Wing Interstate. Not only did Honda up displacement by 100cc, but with the Interstate they showed the public what luxury touring looked like with full-dresser bodywork. From there, the Gold Wing became the reference, and any manufacturers intending to build a touring bike would need to have a similar body style. After having produced mostly two-stroke bikes during the early 70’s, Suzuki launched the “GS” series featuring four-stroke engines. After having notably started GS production with a 750cc engine, Suzuki managed to release a 1,100cc bike in 1980, the GS1100. Originally made as a sportbike, the 1100 was developed into different models, like the GS1100 GK, released in 1983, with the intention of competing with the Interstate.
The GK features a factory built fairing inspired from Craig Vetter’s work in that field, with built-in front signals, rectangular handlamp, and locking storage on either sides of the interior fairing. Saddlebags are non-detachable with incorporated signals, whereas the top-case could be removed. As far as the engine, the four-stroke 1100cc made by Suzuki proved its quality since its first release. In fact, thanks to its TSCC, “Twin Swirl Combustion Chamber”, the 1,100cc engine made the GS one of the first “modern” superbikes, and more importantly the fastest one at the time. Cycle World’s awarded it Superbike of the Year 3 years in a row, from 1981 to 1983. For touring purposes, the approximately 100 hp were detuned to about 92, notably reducing the compression ratio from 9.5:1 to 8.8:1. A shaft have was installed instead of the chain, which increased smoothness and longevity. The wet weight was 639 lbs and the bike was capable of a top speed of 132mph. To get more information, read Motorcycle Specs for a 1992 story from Motorcyclist.
The Suzuki featured in this article seems to be in superb condition with a black color that looks great. The bike is showing 43k miles, which is reasonable for a 35 years old touring bike equipped with a shaft. The trunk will also be included in the sale. The seller indicates that a new rear tire will be needed.
Find this GS1100GK in Santa Barbara, California here on Craigslist for $1,400.