Suzuki Bandit Series
Encyclopedia
The Suzuki Bandit is a series of standard (sometimes called "sport-standard") street motorcycle
s produced by Suzuki
.
The following different models of the bike have been manufactured:
All engines are DOHC inline four with 16 valves. 600, 650, 750 and 1200 models employ SACS (Suzuki Advanced Cooling System
) cooling that is combined air-cooled
and oil-cooled; the 600 cc model's engine is taken from the GSX-F 600 and retuned for more midrange. The 1,200 cc model's engine is a bored out GSXR 1100 item. The 250 and 400 cc models are water-cooled
.
For model year 2007, Suzuki abandoned the GSX-R derived engine in favor of new fuel-injected, liquid-cooled engines.
Both 650 and 1250 models now meet Euro3 emission standards.
The 'S' models come with a factory half-fairing
, and starting from model year 2000, dual headlights. The base model 'N' is an unfaired naked bike with a single headlight. Not all market areas received both the naked and the half-faired models in any given model year.
The Bandit series originally had a reputation as "hooligan bikes". With more recent revisions, however, the bike has taken on a more streamlined and modern feel, taking it more towards sports tourer territory. The 1200 remains popular with stunt riders, and is a bike of choice for various wheelie
schools.
It was based on the styling of the pre-existing GSF400 Bandit, with a retuned engine from the GSX600.
A completely new, water-cooled motor was designed specifically for the 2007 Bandit 650, unlike earlier models which used engines re-worked from other models. Most of chassis and the bodywork kept unchanged from the 2005 model, though.
The 2007 Bandit 650 was reviewed by Bike magazine as being "de-criminalised" compared to its early brethren, but a good bike for beginners.
Bandit 650 no longer offered in the United States for the 2007 model-year.
Changes to both models (naked and half-faired) versions are :
In addition to this, the 650S has a newly styled cowling with stacked high and low beam multi-reflector headlights. The fairing has storage, and newly designed mirrors and indicators.
The 650N has more angular headlights.
The GSX650F, produced from 2008, is essentially a variation on the Bandit 650, with much the same specification and components. Although built on a Bandit chassis, the additional lower fairing gives it a sportier look similar to that of the Suzuki GSX-R Series
. The engine has also had a small amount of remapping to encourage revs, and the suspension is tweaked. It also has a different, one-piece seat.
. Other differences from the 600 cc models included a fuel gauge
, higher specification suspension and larger diameter front brake discs. Also the 1200 Bandit featured a hydraulic clutch.
There are some examples of 1995 registered 1200 Bandits. A lot of Suzuki models have the engine size cast into side of the cylinder block, 1200 Bandits (1,157 cc) do not have this but there are examples of some having 1,156 cc cast into the block. These were 1995 bikes, apparently early production models.
The 1997 ABS (anti-lock braking system) 1200 Bandit used a 114 link chain as opposed to the standard 110 link chain.
2006 (K6 and SK6) models received a revamp with a new shape tank, side panels, a height adjustable seat and a longer hexagonal-section swinging arm. The faired "S" versions also have a new shape fairing and mirrors along with a totally redesigned headlight system with over and under beams rather than the previous side by side system. These new models were offered with ABS brakes as an option. ABS brakes were fitted as standard on the UK specification SA model. Some markets also received height-adjustable handlebars. There were minor revisions to the transmission internal ratios as well. The 2006 Bandit 1200s were not sold in the USA but continued to be sold elsewhere around the world. The SK6 version is in generation 3 of the Bandit 1200S line and thus is the sole generation 3 model of the 1200 Bandit. This was the last of the SACS-engined Bandits with a motor design and technology that first saw the light of day in 1985 in the GSX-R 750.
Much like the 650 model, the Bandit 1250S has a water-cooled motor specially designed for the Bandit. The previous 1,157 cc air/oil-cooled motor did not meet Euro 3 emissions regulations.
While the new 1,255 cc engine produces almost identical horse power and torque figures as the old air-cooled engine, the big difference is in where in the RPM band peak torque is produced. This 1,255 cc engine produces its torque (108 N·m (79.7 ft·lbf)) at 3,750 RPM. That power is sent to the driveline via a new for 2007 six-speed constant mesh transmission. It was also available as the 1250SA, this version fitted with ABS
.
The autumn saw the introduction of a limited edition Street Fighter, featuring Renthal handlebars, a Yoshimura silencer and a single seat cowling.
The 1250GT is a Grand Touring version. It carries a three-box hard luggage system, has fairing lowers and comes fitted with sat-nav
.
In May 2009, it was announced that there will be a limited edition Bandit 1250SA 'Z'. It has a pearl mirage white paint scheme, with revised graphics and metallic silver wheels. Only 100 examples came to the UK.
The standard 1250A and 1250SA models for 2010 will feature a black engine.
Motorcycle
A motorcycle is a single-track, two-wheeled motor vehicle. Motorcycles vary considerably depending on the task for which they are designed, such as long distance travel, navigating congested urban traffic, cruising, sport and racing, or off-road conditions.Motorcycles are one of the most...
s produced by Suzuki
Suzuki
is a Japanese multinational corporation headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan that specializes in manufacturing compact automobiles and 4x4 vehicles, a full range of motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles , outboard marine engines, wheelchairs and a variety of other small internal combustion engines...
.
The following different models of the bike have been manufactured:
- GSF250 with 250 cc (manufactured 1989-94)
- GSF400 with 400 cc (manufactured 1989-2000)
- GSF600N/GSF600S with 599 cc (manufactured 1995-2004)
- GSF650N/GSF650S with 656 cc (manufactured since 2005)
- GSF750 with 748 cc (manufactured 1996-1999)
- GSF1200/GSF1200S with 1,157 cc (manufactured since 1996)
- GSF1250/GSF1250 ABS with 1,255 cc (manufactured since 2007)
All engines are DOHC inline four with 16 valves. 600, 650, 750 and 1200 models employ SACS (Suzuki Advanced Cooling System
Suzuki Advanced Cooling System
The Suzuki Advanced Cooling System was developed by Suzuki engineer Etsuo Yokouchi in the early 1980s. The system was used extensively on GSXR model bikes from 1985 through 1992. Suzuki continued to use the system in its GSF and GSX lines until the 2006 model-year...
) cooling that is combined air-cooled
Engine cooling
Internal combustion engine cooling refers to the cooling of an internal combustion engine, typically using either air or a liquid.- Overview :...
and oil-cooled; the 600 cc model's engine is taken from the GSX-F 600 and retuned for more midrange. The 1,200 cc model's engine is a bored out GSXR 1100 item. The 250 and 400 cc models are water-cooled
Watercooling
Water cooling is a method of heat removal from components and industrial equipment. As opposed to air cooling, water is used as the heat conductor. Water cooling is commonly used for cooling automobile internal combustion engines and large industrial facilities such as steam electric power plants,...
.
For model year 2007, Suzuki abandoned the GSX-R derived engine in favor of new fuel-injected, liquid-cooled engines.
Both 650 and 1250 models now meet Euro3 emission standards.
The 'S' models come with a factory half-fairing
Motorcycle fairing
A motorcycle fairing is a shell placed over the frame of some motorcycles, especially racing motorcycles and sport bikes, with the primary purpose to reduce air drag. The secondary functions are the protection of the rider from airborne hazards and wind-induced hypothermia and of the engine...
, and starting from model year 2000, dual headlights. The base model 'N' is an unfaired naked bike with a single headlight. Not all market areas received both the naked and the half-faired models in any given model year.
The Bandit series originally had a reputation as "hooligan bikes". With more recent revisions, however, the bike has taken on a more streamlined and modern feel, taking it more towards sports tourer territory. The 1200 remains popular with stunt riders, and is a bike of choice for various wheelie
Wheelie
In vehicle acrobatics, a wheelie is a vehicle maneuver in which the front wheel or wheels come off the ground due to extreme torque being applied to the rear wheel or wheels. Wheelies are usually associated with bicycles and motorcycles, but can be done with other vehicles such as cars, especially...
schools.
Bandit 250 and 400
Launched in 1989, the GSF250 and GSF400 had a liquid-cooled inline-four engine, mounted on a trellis steel frame. The engines were based on those of the GSX-R250 and GSX-R400. The Bandit 250 had about 45 bhp, the 400 cc version about 59 bhp (reduced to 53 from 1992). Both models had disc brakes, single and double at the front respectively. Both versions were later available with a top fairing (carrying the name "Limited" on the model name), and later "V" variations had an optional variable inlet timing.GSF250 models
- GSF250 (from December 1989)
- GSF250 45 hp (from April 1990)
- GSF250ZM ("LIMITED" edition) (from May 1991)
- GSF250P (from September 1992)
- GSF250NP (from October 1992)
- GSF250ZP ("LIMITED" edition) (from May 1993)
- GSF250R and GSF250NR (from October 1993)
- GSF250V (1995)
- GSF250V (2000)
GSF400 models
- GSF400K (from August 1989)
- GSF400NK (from June 1990)
- GSF400-Z (SUZUKI 70th Anniversary "LIMITED" edition) (from November 1990)
- GSF400M - naked, standard engine (1991)
- GSF400ZM Limited - Retro cafe fairing, standard engine (1991)
- GSF400VM (VC Engine model) (from June 1991)
- GSF400VZM (VC Engine Limited - Retro cafe fairing model) (from August 1991)
- GSF400VP (VC Engine model) (from October 1992)
- GSF400P (Normal engine model) (from November 1992)
- GSF400NP (from November 1992)
- GSF400VZP (VC Engine Limited model) (from May 1993)
- GSF400VR (VC Engine model) (from November 1993)
- GSF400S (Normal Engine model) (from January 1995)
- GSF400VS (VC Engine model) (from January 1995)
- GSF400V-V (VC Engine model) (from February 1997)
- GSF400VZ-V (VC Engine "VZ" model) (from February 1997)
1995
The naked GSF600 N Bandit was released in February.It was based on the styling of the pre-existing GSF400 Bandit, with a retuned engine from the GSX600.
1997
Minor changes: A clutch switch (requiring the clutch to be pulled in when starting the motorcycle, for safety reasons) and carburettor heaters.2000
The first major changes were made this year.- New rear bodywork.
- Fully electronic instrumentation.
- New carburettors with throttle position sensor.
- Additional fuel filter.
- Nissin brake callipers. fuel tank (up from 19).
- Improvements to frame and steering geometry.
- Seat height lowered.
- S model: New modern styled half fairing, with twin headlights.
2005
The all new Suzuki Bandit 650 and half faired Bandit 650S launch took place at Tarragona, Spain.- Engine displacement increased by 56 cc to improve low- and mid-range performance
- Seat and Handlebar adjustable for height
- New engine internals provide for reduced friction, together with smoother performance and increased power
- Revised four-into-two exhaust system
- Reshaped fuel tank
- New halogen headlight
- New LCD digital display combining speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge and clock
- Increased rigidity within chassis and upgraded suspension
- Overall weight reduced
- ABS available as an option
- Speedometer/odometer switchable between Metric and Imperial
- Suzuki PAIR (Pulsed AIR) exhaust air injection system
2007
- Meets Euro3 emission standards
- 656 cc displacement, inline-four all-aluminium liquid-cooled engine
- Electronic Fuel Injection with dual throttle valve system (similar to Suzuki's GSX-R and V-Strom)
- 10% stiffer frame and longer swingarm
- Stiffer rear shock but softer front fork
- Claimed 85 hp at 10,500 rpm (up 7 hp)
- 12,500 rpm redline
- Same 20 litres (42.3 US pt) fuel tank as previous model, but the fuel pump takes about 1 L
- Hydraulic clutch lever
- 14 kg heavier
The 2007 Bandit 650 was reviewed by Bike magazine as being "de-criminalised" compared to its early brethren, but a good bike for beginners.
Bandit 650 no longer offered in the United States for the 2007 model-year.
2008
Bandit 650 no longer offered in Canada for the 2008 model-year. Replaced by new Bandit-derived fully faired GSX650F in North-America.2009
In November 2008, it was announced that there would be certain changes to the 2009 GSF650.Changes to both models (naked and half-faired) versions are :
- Sleeker headlights
- The frame covers are slightly different
- Tail lights are slimmer
- Exhaust ends are re-shaped
- New instrumentation (single housing with anologue tachometer, LCD speedo, fuel gauge, clock, plus gear indicator)
In addition to this, the 650S has a newly styled cowling with stacked high and low beam multi-reflector headlights. The fairing has storage, and newly designed mirrors and indicators.
The 650N has more angular headlights.
GSX650F (a Bandit variation)
Suzuki GSX-R Series
The Suzuki GSX-R series, or Maruti GSX-R for India, is the top-of-the-line series of sport bikes made by Japanese manufacturer Suzuki. The series currently offers the following motorcycles:* GSX-R600 1992–1993, since 1997* GSX-R750 since 1985...
. The engine has also had a small amount of remapping to encourage revs, and the suspension is tweaked. It also has a different, one-piece seat.
Bandit 750
The Bandit 750 was a Japan only model that used parts from both the 600 and 1200 models; the front frame cradle was identical to the 600, the rear subframe was identical to the 1200 with bolt on pillion footpeg handers, the clocks were 1200 items (with the speedo in km/h), including a fuel gauge which was absent from the 600 models of the time. The running gear and suspension were also the same as the 600. The engine, although visually identical to the 600, had a capacity of 748 cc, The carburettors were similar to the 600 apart from jetting, whereas the exhaust was identical to the 1200. Power was a claimed 85 bhp. All machines were restricted to 180 km/h (111.8 mph) to comply with Japanese regulations, but are easily de-restricted to a true maximum speed of 220 km/h (136.7 mph).1996
The first 1200 Bandit models were generally released in January 1996, featuring a retuned and enlarged version of the engine featured in the GSX-R1100Suzuki GSX-R Series
The Suzuki GSX-R series, or Maruti GSX-R for India, is the top-of-the-line series of sport bikes made by Japanese manufacturer Suzuki. The series currently offers the following motorcycles:* GSX-R600 1992–1993, since 1997* GSX-R750 since 1985...
. Other differences from the 600 cc models included a fuel gauge
Fuel gauge
A fuel gauge is an instrument used to indicate the level of fuel contained in a tank. Commonly used in cars, these may also be used for any tank including underground storage tanks.As used in cars, the gauge consists of two parts:...
, higher specification suspension and larger diameter front brake discs. Also the 1200 Bandit featured a hydraulic clutch.
There are some examples of 1995 registered 1200 Bandits. A lot of Suzuki models have the engine size cast into side of the cylinder block, 1200 Bandits (1,157 cc) do not have this but there are examples of some having 1,156 cc cast into the block. These were 1995 bikes, apparently early production models.
1997
No changes were made. A version of the S Bandit with anti-lock braking was introduced for certain world markets.The 1997 ABS (anti-lock braking system) 1200 Bandit used a 114 link chain as opposed to the standard 110 link chain.
2001
The 1200 Bandits received a similar revamp to the one the 600 Bandits received the previous year:- New rear bodywork.
- Fully electronic instrumentation.
- New carburettors.
- Suzuki PAIR (Pulsed Air Injection), feeding clean air into the exhaust outlet to help eliminate unburnt fuel from emissions.
- Additional fuel filter.
- Tokico brake callipers (six pistons at the front).
- 20 litre fuel tank (up from 19).
- Improvements to frame and steering geometry.
- Seat height lowered.
- S model: New modern styled fairing, with twin headlights.
2004
2004 models added a 2-way catalytic converter (for some markets) to the exhaust system, and minor modifications to the exhaust metalwork.2006
2007
While the new 1,255 cc engine produces almost identical horse power and torque figures as the old air-cooled engine, the big difference is in where in the RPM band peak torque is produced. This 1,255 cc engine produces its torque (108 N·m (79.7 ft·lbf)) at 3,750 RPM. That power is sent to the driveline via a new for 2007 six-speed constant mesh transmission. It was also available as the 1250SA, this version fitted with ABS
Anti-lock braking system
An anti-lock braking system is a safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and therefore avoiding skidding.An ABS generally offers...
.
The autumn saw the introduction of a limited edition Street Fighter, featuring Renthal handlebars, a Yoshimura silencer and a single seat cowling.
2008
No changes from the 2007 model.The 1250GT is a Grand Touring version. It carries a three-box hard luggage system, has fairing lowers and comes fitted with sat-nav
Global Navigation Satellite System
A satellite navigation or SAT NAV system is a system of satellites that provide autonomous geo-spatial positioning with global coverage. It allows small electronic receivers to determine their location to within a few metres using time signals transmitted along a line-of-sight by radio from...
.
2009
2009 models carry over the same engines. The cylinders are once again plated with Suzuki’s "Composite Electrochemical Material", and also carried over is the Secondary Balancer Shaft further smoothens the rides.In May 2009, it was announced that there will be a limited edition Bandit 1250SA 'Z'. It has a pearl mirage white paint scheme, with revised graphics and metallic silver wheels. Only 100 examples came to the UK.
2010
In September 2009 it was announced that 2010 will see the release of the GSX1250FA. It has the same engine and chassis as before, but a full fairing will make it similar in style to the smaller GSX650F.The standard 1250A and 1250SA models for 2010 will feature a black engine.
External links
- Suzuki motorcycle lineup including information on Bandit
- Suzuki Bandit 650 Road tests of the Suzuki Bandit 650
- Suzuki Bandit 600 Road test of the Suzuki Bandit 600
- Suzuki Bandit 1250 Road test of the Suzuki Bandit 1250