2001 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit review from United States of America

First, the suspension was too soft; example, I had the 1200S with the.75 gauge springs, way too soft for a rider over 210lbs. The front end would dive coming into turns and would pogo-stick. The rear shocks were just okay. I installed Race Tech springs (.95) and gold valves, then installed a Fox Shock twin clicker. All in all, it cost me around $1200.

Secondly, the bike burned one quart of oil per three hundred miles, due to poor quality control in relation to the pistons having too large oil ring holes that caused blow by; the bike was under warranty, Suzuki repaired it.

Acceleration, great for someone who is into cruising, but not canyon carving. I was not pleased with the power, so I installed a stage 2 carburetor kit, and hole shot muffler and K&N Air filter pods. My bike from 101hp to 115hp. To get more kick, I changed the front sprocket, so now the bike can pull wheelies in most every gear.

After spending close to $2000.00 to improve the performance and handling of this bike, I was happy with its performance, but for all the money I spent, I could have bought a GSXR1000 or 600, or a CBR954 or 600, and all the performance and handling would have been included. The only thing I did have was the best of both worlds: a good handling/performance motorcycle with the comfort of a cruiser.