Sportbikes
1981Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana
19 fields on record
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana is a groundbreaking sport bike that revolutionized motorcycle design with its radical angular styling. Powered by a potent 1074cc four-cylinder engine producing 100 horsepower, it appeals to experienced riders seeking raw performance and striking aesthetics. Known for combining genuine speed with distinctive European-influenced design, the Katana became an iconic middleweight contender of its era.
- Capacity
- 1074.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 272.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 100.0 HP (73.5 kW) @ 8700 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as an iconic 1980s open-class sport-tourer, it prioritizes strong straight-line performance and bold styling over modern agility.
- Built for
- It rewards confident, smooth riding with strong midrange power delivery and a commanding, upright yet sporty seating position.
- Not ideal for
- It is not a good fit for off-road use, novice riders, or anyone seeking nimble, flickable modern handling.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 1074.0 ccm
- Power
- 100.0 HP (73.5 kW) @ 8700 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3676 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 72.0 x 66.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 228.0 km/h (141.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.50-19
- Rear tyre
- 4.50-17
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 | 1984 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1074 cc | 1074 cc | 1074 cc | 1074 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 24 L | 21 L | 21 L | 21 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana?
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana has a Capacity of 1074.0 ccm (65.54 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana have?
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana has a Power of 100.0 HP (73.5 kW) @ 8700 RPM.
How many gears does the Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana have?
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana weigh?
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 1100 S Katana has a Wet weight of 272.0 kg (599.7 pounds).
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