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1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana Overview
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana is a sport motorcycle built around 1074 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder engine, a compression ratio of 9.5:1. 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana delivers 83.9 kW @ 9500 rpm of peak power and 97.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 220 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 1990 GSX 1100S Katana tips the scales at 243 kg, carries a 22 L fuel tank, offers a seat height of 775 mm and spans a 1520 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
1990 GSX 1100S Katana - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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⚡
Strong power output: 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana makes 83.9 kW @ 9500 rpm with 97.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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⛽
Large fuel range: The 22 L tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
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ℹ️
Age-related wear: As with any used GSX 1100S Katana, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Low-speed confidence
At 243 kg, the GSX 1100S Katana is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
GSX 1100S Katana - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained GSX 1100S Katana should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any GSX 1100S Katana. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana have?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana uses a Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder. engine with 1074 cc of displacement. It is air cooled.
What is the top speed of the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana has a factory-quoted top speed of 220 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana weigh?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana weighs 243 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana make?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana produces 83.9 kW @ 9500 rpm of power and 97.1 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana has a 22 L fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 366-440 km between stops.
Is the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana suitable for shorter riders?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana has a seat height of 775 mm. This is a moderate seat height that suits a wide range of rider heights.
What brakes does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana have?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana uses 2 x 275 mm Discs, 2 piston calipers at the front and Single 275 mm disc, 1 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana use?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana runs 3.50 - V19 front and 4.50 - V17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana have?
The 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana is fitted with a 5 Speed transmission.
Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana Spec Evolution
The Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana was produced across 6 model years (1981-1992). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
1981 |
1982 |
1983 |
1984 |
1990 |
1992 |
| Wet Weight |
272.0 kg / 599.7 lbs |
272.0 kg / 599.7 lbs |
272.0 kg / 599.7 lbs |
272.0 kg / 599.7 lbs |
243 kg / 535 lbs |
243 kg / 535 lbs |
| Engine Type |
In-line four, four-stroke |
In-line four, four-stroke |
In-line four |
In-line four |
- |
- |
| Top Speed |
228.0 km/h / 141.7 mph |
228.0 km/h / 141.7 mph |
228.0 km/h / 141.7 mph |
228.0 km/h / 141.7 mph |
220 km/h / 136.4 mph |
220 km/h / 136.4 mph |
| Fuel Capacity |
24.00 litres / 6.34 gallons |
21.00 litres / 5.55 gallons |
21.00 litres / 5.55 gallons |
21.00 litres / 5.55 gallons |
22 L / 5.8 US gal / 4.8 Imp gal |
22 L / 5.8 US gal / 4.8 Imp gal |
| Brakes - Front |
Dual disc |
Dual disc |
Dual disc |
Dual disc |
2 x 275 mm Discs, 2 piston calipers |
2 x 275 mm Discs, 2 piston calipers |
| Brakes - Rear |
Single disc |
Single disc |
Single disc |
Single disc |
Single 275 mm disc, 1 piston caliper |
Single 275 mm disc, 1 piston caliper |
| Model |
- |
- |
- |
- |
1985 - 89 |
1990 - 93 |
| Final Drive |
Chain |
Chain |
Chain |
Chain |
Chain, Daido D.I.D 630YL, 96 links |
Chain, Daido D.I.D 630YL, 96 links |
Key Specifications
Engine
Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.
Power
83.9 kW / 111 hp / @ 9500 rpm
Torque
97.1 Nm / 9.9 kgf-m / 70.9 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm
Top Speed
220 km/h / 136.4 mph
Fuel Capacity
22 L / 5.8 US gal / 4.8 Imp gal
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Full 1990 Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana Specifications
Model
1985 - 89
Make Model
Suzuki GSX 1100S Katana
Seat Height
775 mm / 30.5 in
Wheelbase
1520 mm / 59.8 in
Ground Clearance
175 mm / 6.9 in
Height
1195 mm / 47.0 in
Length
2260 mm / 89.0 in
Turning Circle
3.5 m / 11.5 ft
Width
715 mm / 28.1 in
Dry Weight
232 kg / 511 lbs
Fuel Capacity
22 L / 5.8 US gal / 4.8 Imp gal
Oil Capacity
3.2 L / 3.4 US qt / 2.8 Imp qt
Wet Weight
243 kg / 535 lbs
Displacement
1074 cc / 65.5 cu in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.
Air Filter
Dual element (Paper and polyurethane)
Bore x Stroke
72 x 66 mm
Compression Ratio
9.5:1
Cooling System
Air cooled
Fuel Consumption
6.4 L/100 km / 15.6 km/l / 36.6 US mpg / 44 Imp mpg
Fuel Induction
4 x Mikuni BS34SS
Fuel Reserve
5 L / 1.3 US gal / 1.1 Imp gal
Ignition
Transistorized
Ignition Timing
15° BTDC below 1500 rpm / 32° BTDC above 2350 rpm
Lubrication
Wet sump
Spark Plug
NGK D8EA (in E-01,24,25,30,34), NGK DR8ES-L (the others) - gap 0.6-0.7 mm (0.024-0.028 in)
Starter
Electric
Battery Capacity
12V 50.4 kC (14 Ah)/10HR - type YB14L-A2
Clutch
Wet multi-plate
Final Drive
Chain, Daido D.I.D 630YL, 96 links
Final Drive Ratio
2.800:1 (42/15)
Gear Ratios
1st 2.500 (35/15) / 2nd 1.777 (32/18) / 3rd 1.380 (29/21) / 4th 1.125 (27/24) / 5th 0.961 (25/26)
Primary Drive Ratios
1.775:1 (87/49)
Transmission / Drive
5 Speed
Frame Type
Steel, double cradle frame
Suspension - Front
Telescopic, oil damped, spring 4-way adjustable with anti-dive
Suspension - Rear
Dual shock oil damped, damper 4-way, spring 5-way adjustable
Rake
29°
Trail
118 mm / 4.65 in
Wheel Travel - Front
150 mm / 5.91 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
109 mm / 4.29 in
Charging System
Three-phase A.C. generator
Brakes - Front
2 x 275 mm Discs, 2 piston calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 275 mm disc, 1 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
3.50 - V19
Tyres - Rear
4.50 - V17
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