1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 - History Lesson at Automotive.com
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1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100

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1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 - History Lesson
1986 Suzuki Gsx R1100 Cover Spread

1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100 - History Lesson

A Sucka-free OG.

By John Zamora
Photography by John Zamora

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Today's new rider might wonder why anyone would want to customize a bike that's over 20 years old. Let's set the record straight. That ultra fast race replica with lights sitting in your driveway wouldn't exist if it weren't for the original GSX-R. Though debatable, the 1986 GSX-R1100 could easily be considered the very first liter sportbike. Sure, there were other high performance bikes prior to 1986, but before it came along there was never a true ready to race replica motorcycle.

Although about as aerodynamic as a 12-year-old girl when compared to today's silicon standards, the flat sided bodywork and its long, low and lean look was nothing shy of revolutionary back in the day. Rather than destroy the integrity of the original design, owner Juan Rivera chose to accentuate the natural beauty with a few simple yet classy mods. Some tasteful chrome here and a few extra inches there is all it took to sweeten up an already tasty ride.

So before you young whippersnappers brush this bike off as another old man's custom, you better pay respect. New sportbikes are constantly improving but there can only be one original badass.

Buyer's Box
1986 Suzuki GSX-R1100


Front end: Custom wheel, lowering straps

Rear end: Custom swingarm by Star Machine with 240 tire, custom wheel

Motor: Tuned by G&D Motorcycle

Paint: Danny Custom

Accessories: LED turn signals, Zero Gravity windscreen, custom billet reservoir covers, kickstand, grips and levers, custom gauges and seat

Owner: Juan Rivera (Pito) and family

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