2002 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit review from Australia

1.The original handling was excellent on the bike, but deteriorated severely as the front tyre went 'off' at around 7000Km. The original (M...n) has now been replaced with a Pirelli and the bike corners on rails. Prior to this it was very hard work holding the bike into a corner, and when riding in a straight line it was impossible to take your hands off the handlebars without massive tank-slappers.

2.From new the bike felt slightly vague until race-foam was fitted inside the petrol tank. Being a flat bottomed tank there was a lot of fuel surge and the foam improved the feel of the bike hugely.

This is bike number 18 and it is one of the best bikes I've owned. Unlimited torque, solid handling and sweet manners for a big bike. Just does everything near perfect.

I rode the bike North on a 4000 Km round trip in Western Australia and overtaking 3 trailer road-trains was a breeze. The only downside was having to keep it under 80Kms/hr during the hottest part of the day (January, 65deg.C road temperature) when the rear tyre rubber would ball up creating a flat spot.

Mechanically the bike is great and the engine response is always reliable, and the carbies and electrics faithfully provide the goods when needed... rain, hail or shine.

The front brakes are excellent, although you can't stand this thing on its ear like a ZX9R I had once.

Go get one.