Post-Listing Update: This Katana got no action at the asking price of $9,990.
The Suzuki Katana is a very distinctive bike designed by Hans Muth (the fairing might remind you of a similar Muth creation – the BMW R65LS). In the late 70s and early 80s, Japanese manufacturers were selling standard bikes as fast as they could make them. And while most of the bikes were technically sound, they all started to emulate each other, creating the UJM (first coined by Cycle magazine). Some considered it efficient, others considered it boring. With the exception of the CB series that started it all, I tend to fall in the latter camp. Which is why bikes like the original Suzuki Katana are very important in the history of motorcycles.
Suzuki’s Marketing Manager in Germany said to Japanese management, “We had the most technically advanced bikes, but their design was uninteresting!” In response, Suzuki hired a three person team called Target Design, led by the ex-chief of BMW’s styling, Hans Muth to update the ‘company image’. This was his first creation, which was an immediate show-stopper at the Cologne Motor Show in 1980. For all the information you would probably want on the Katana, check out this .pdf from Suzuki-Katana.com.
This specific Suzuki Katana GSX1100 (VIN: JS1GU72AXD2100497) has 29,553 miles and features original paint with no major cosmetic issues. The rear shocks and front brake have been upgraded, and it’s claimed to be in excellent mechanical condition.
Find this Suzuki Katana GSX1100 for sale in Santa Monica, California with a BIN of $9,990 or best offer
