1980 Suzuki GS850 review from United States of America
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
Right handlebar switch panel replaced.
Spark plugs replaced.
Tires replaced.
Battery replaced.
Starter replaced.
Intake boots (set of 4) replaced.
Carbs cleaned and synched at intake boot replacement service.
Bike came with a set of highway bars with fixed rubber pegs - I chose to replace the fixed rubber pegs with newer style metal folding pegs.
I chose to replace "Buckhorn"-style handlebar for one with a shorter bend, which relieves wind blast on torso, as well as more comfortable wrist angle for twisting throttle
I chose to upgrade the headlight bulb to a newer bulb, giving a whiter light and higher wattage (60/55W= 110/100W).
I chose to install a "Back-Off" module to make taillight flash in a 5-flash pattern when the rear brake is applied, making the bike more visible to other drivers.
I chose to add rubber sleeves over the clutch, and brake levers for improved grip
I chose to replace the factory round mirrors with an updated set of chrome teardrop-shaped mirrors.
General comments?
My GS850GL has air assisted forks, which have held up great and ride well.
Overall bike suspension is excellent - the bike is very comfortable for long rides.
Bike handles and accelerates well for a bike of its size and weight.
Paint, seat and chrome on my bike have held up extremely well.
Highway bars and pegs give you a place to stretch out during rides.
Shaft drive has needed no maintenance at all, other than periodic gear oil changes as recommended.
Factory exhaust still working well and looking great.
Everywhere, I go the bike gets looks and favorable comments from other riders, as well as non-riders.
Factory optional backrest with the Suzuki "S" in chrome on the back side, and the "L" embossed in the pad, really adds to the look of the bike.
Check out photos at http://community.webshots.com/user/kmfarrell
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![]() | A big hearted, loyal friend through thick and thin |
![]() | A solid workhorse with bags of character |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1981 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Acceleration marks | 7/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Handling marks | 6/10 |
| Braking marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 9700 miles |
| Most recent distance | 18800 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Honda 1971 Honda CL350 Scrambler |
| Date of Entry | 21st July, 2007 |


