There are few motorcycle shapes more recognizable than Hans Muth’s remarkable Suzuki Katana bodywork. Beyond the original 1000S of 1982, the same basic shape was applied to a number of different four-cylinder models. The smallest and perhaps most perfect was this JDM GSX250S, beautifully captured in anthracite gray.
Last Call indicates the end of Hooniverse’s broadcast day. It’s meant to be an open forum for anyone and anything. Thread jacking is not only accepted, it’s encouraged.
Image: autoby.jp
By Peter Tanshanomi
Tanshanomi is Japanese [単車のみ] for "motorcycle(s) only." Though primarily tasked with creating two-wheel oriented content for Hooniverse, Pete is a lover of all sorts of motorized vehicles.
Jeff Glucker
Stopped by Road Atlanta after work today. Wanted to see if I could see any of the filming of Ford vs Ferrari. Saw signs for the filming. But nothing going on the track. Several transporters were lined up for the Ferrari events next weekend.
The pretty much identical bike is the 400 version, the extra torque makes it easier to ride, and it still revs some pretty high numbers. and with two front discs, better brakes.
http://raresportbikesforsale.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/1999-Suzuki-Katana-400-L-Side-730×548.jpg
https://www.picclickimg.com/00/s/MTU5OVg1NjM=/z/bgIAAOSwqbVbS3Cn/$/Katana-250-400-1000-1100-Pop-Up-750-_57.jpg
Well, not identical. Bodywork was close, but they were totally different engines and chassis, and the 250 weighed about 50 lbs. less.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c0b52686863c2a988dae2d1875f33b424d061e73c4b15362e3af19ebcea5a89b.jpg
The lighter weight partly coming from lighter wheels and a single, not twin, front disc, as well as slightly smaller engine castings. I have seen these two together one of each next to each other, and though we didn’t actually swap bits, everything bodywork did appear identical.The frames give the same geometry, with the differences accounting for the smaller motor. This is a common design approach with JDM 250/400 models.The differences are subtle though.
Yes, the tank, fairing, and seat are the same. As I recall, the side covers on the two bikes are unique and mount slightly differently. The frames are similar, but not the same tubing sizes or dimensions. Nearly all JDM 400 fours (along with most 400 V-twins) were sleeved-down versions of a 550/600cc engine. I can’t think of an example where a 250 and a 400 class four-cylinder bike shared chassis or crankcase dimensions.
I’m not much into bikes, but that is nice.