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- Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana (2 offers)
Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana classic motorcycle for sale
The Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana stands as one of the most distinctive motorcycles of the early 1980s, lauded for its performance, radical design, and unique handling profile. Especially as a 1982 model, it attracts riders and collectors alike who value both technical precision and bold aesthetics.
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1983 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
Suzuki KATANA 1100
1982 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
Suzuki KATANA 1100
Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana listing references from Classic Trader
Below you will find listings related to your search that are no longer available on Classic Trader. Use this information to gain insight into availability, value trends, and current pricing for a "Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana" to make a more informed purchasing decision.
1984 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
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1983 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
1983 Suzuki GSX1100SD Katana 1,074cc
1983 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
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1982 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
GSX 1100 SZ Katana, 1982 + complete exhaust system+custom seat
1983 | Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
SUZUKI GSX 1100 SCRAMBLER 1983 - ISCRITTA FMI
Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana Classic Motorbikes: Prices & Market Values
The market value of Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana motorcycles is primarily determined by technical condition, originality, and mileage, as well as rarity, history, and documentation. A well-maintained, largely original vehicle with low, verifiable mileage and a complete history including expert reports and documentation generally achieves significantly higher prices than a comparable vehicle with deferred maintenance, extensive modifications, or an unclear provenance.
Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana: Market Prices & Value Trends
Based on sales data from the Classic Trader marketplace, the Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana (notably 1982–1984, 100 hp) shows a broadly stable-to-firmer market over the period from November 2021 to February 2026, but with clear variation by condition and presentation. Most observed prices cluster in the mid-range, suggesting realistic current market values of roughly £5,500 to £7,500 for typical, correctly described examples, while cheaper entries around £4,300 tend to sit at the “needs work” end. At the top of the dataset, a single late-2025 price of about £12,100 stands out as an outlier and should be treated cautiously unless backed by exceptional originality, documentation, or restoration quality. With only seven data points, this is a limited snapshot, yet it aligns with a Katana market that is supported by iconic styling, 1980s superbike-era desirability, and collector interest in unmodified bikes. For buyers, that means values are more resilient than volatile; for sellers, strong provenance and originality remain key to achieving the upper end.
History and Background of the Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
The Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana debuted in 1982 and made an immediate impact, pushing the boundaries of motorcycle design and performance. Born from Suzuki’s ambition to produce a high-performance sport-touring machine with futuristic styling, the Katana was the result of a collaboration with the German design firm Target Design. At its release, it distinguished itself with an angular fairing, aggressive lines, and advanced engineering, capturing attention on and off the road. Publications such as Cycle World credited the GSX 1100 SZ Katana as 'Motorcycle of the Year', noting its innovative handling and relatively lightweight construction for its displacement class.
Model History
The GSX 1100 SZ Katana represented a leap in Suzuki’s lineup, departing sharply from the rounder, more conservative styling of its predecessors like the GS1100. The Katana name also extended to smaller displacement siblings, but the 1100 SZ, with its inline-four powerplant, was the flagship. No direct successor carried forward its avant-garde design; rather, later GSX and GS models adopted more mainstream aesthetics. The GSX 1100 SZ Katana remains unique in Suzuki’s lineage for its radical visual identity and engineering focus in the early 1980s.
Highlights of the Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
The Katana’s most striking feature is its dramatically styled, wind-tunnel-tested fairing, which set a new standard for motorcycle aerodynamics and visual impact in 1982. Other standout elements include the 4-in-1 exhaust system, praised for both performance and style, and accessible high-torque touring capabilities that made it suitable for long-distance rides. The original tool kit and German-language workshop manuals are highly valued by enthusiasts for preservation and restoration.
Technical Data of the Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana
Special Editions and Collectible Models
While the GSX 1100 SZ Katana offered a standard 'A' factory configuration, restored examples adhering to FIVA’s '3' category—meaning close to factory originality with minor documented changes—are especially prized. Specific accessory combinations, such as the 4-into-1 exhaust system and comprehensive original toolsets, are notable when present.
Weak Spots and Common Issues
Source data reveals no specific systematic weak points for the Katana. However, as with many performance bikes from the early 1980s, originality plays a significant role in value—buyers should verify the presence of original or period-correct parts, with notable interest in genuine exhausts, tool kits, and documentation. The availability of factory workshop manuals in German supports both maintenance routines and restoration accuracy.
Engine, Transmission, and Handling
The 1,075 cc DOHC inline-four delivers robust torque and rapid throttle response, making it apt for both spirited rides and extended touring. Riders note the bike’s nimble handling, attributed to its balanced weight distribution and advanced chassis set-up for the year. Lightweight components and its innovative front fairing contribute not just to wind protection, but to improved high-speed stability. Gear shifts remain crisp, supporting both relaxed highway cruising and dynamic back road riding. The GSX 1100 SZ stands out as the preeminent Katana variant, with its contemporaneous smaller displacement models circulating less frequently in today's classic motorcycle market.
Interior, Comfort, Exterior, and Design
Penned by Target Design, the Katana’s sharp aesthetics redefined Suzuki’s visual language at the start of the 1980s. The silver/grey livery with deep red accents is emblematic, while the jointed seat and rear cowl provide both comfort and aggression in stance. The factory-issued 4-in-1 exhaust and distinctive front cowl remain primary visual identifiers. Accessories from period-correct catalogs—like the Sebring exhausts—add further authenticity for collectors.
Other Relevant Features
Standard equipment, such as the original German-language workshop manual and complete toolkit, plays a notable role in rising restoration standards. The GSX 1100 SZ Katana is increasingly represented in historical motorcycle registries under strict originality codes.
Summary
The Suzuki GSX 1100 SZ Katana, especially from the 1982 production year, represents a milestone in motorcycle development with its daring design, balanced engineering, and high level of originality among surviving units. Its persistence in both supply and demand statistics underlines its continued allure among classic bike enthusiasts looking for a machine that combines rarity, technical accomplishment, and period character.