Suzuki GSF1200S Bandit review

The favoured stunter of old gains an edge of practicality with its weather protection
Enjoyable and affordable big bruiser. That fairing makes longer trips more enjoyable too
Now surpassed by all the competition, the Bandit 1200S is sadly a has-been

In the great scheme of fantastic engines, Suzuki’s 11/12/1400 plant is almost worth the money on its own – whatever it’s attached to. This attachment is okayIn the great scheme of fantastic engines, Suzuki’s 11/12/1400 plant is almost worth the money on its own – whatever it’s attached to. This attachment is okay

Length (mm)2070
Width (mm)765
Height (mm)1220
Dryweight (kg)221
Seats0
Seat Height (mm)790
Suspension FrontTelescopic, coil spring, oil damped,
Suspension RearLink type, coil spring, oil damped,
Adjustability FrontSpring preload fully adjustable
Adjustability RearSpring preload 7-way adjustable, rebound damping force 4-way adjustable
Tyres Front120/70 ZR17
Tyres Rear180/55 ZR17
Brakes Front6-piston calipers, dual disc brake
Brakes Rear2-piston caliper, disc brake
Wheelbase (mm)1430
Ground Clearance (mm)130
Trail (mm)104
Cubic Capacity (cc)1157
Max Power (bhp)100
Max Power Peak (rpm)8500
Torque (ft/lb)68
Torque Peak (rpm)6500
Bore (mm)79
Stroke (mm)59
Valve GearDOHC
Compression Ratio9.5
IgnitionElectronic
CoolingAir cooled
Fuel DeliveryMikuni BSR36S carburettor
Stroke TypeFour Stroke
DriveChain