1998 Suzuki Sport Bike reviews

I got my bike back in March of 2005. When I got it it had 1600 miles on it and was in excellent shape! I bought it for $3000 and I have had zero problems or complaints with it. Suzuki has not changed much with this bike in like eight years. So before buying new check out the used! The engine is bullet proof and super reliable no matter what year it is! Show less

For the price you can't beat it. I paid $2800 for mine with 13,000 miles on it. It was totally stock and ran great. A bit on the heavy and bulky side for me but not too bad. If you're looking for something cheap and still sporty this is the bike for you. I wouldn't recommend it for smaller people though. Throttle response is OK, it moves, but not quite like a real crotch rocket. Handles great on new tires. My only complaint about the Katana is the lack of power...They don't call it a 'Can a Tuna' for nothing. Show less

Of all the sport bikes Ive owned in the past 15 years my new found GSX is far and away the most fun bike I've ridden. Public roadways are no place for racing so why spend so much time and energy building a rocket that kills your back and wrists after just an hour of riding? there is absolutely no need for going 160 on city streets. Period. I bought a 98 GSX in black with Yoshi rs-3 pipe, stage 1 jets, D&D chain, clear brake and turn signal lenses, fender eliminator, brand new Dunlop sportmax tires, and a host of other aftermarket goodies for a mere $3,000. This bike turns more heads than a screwdriver. Its a real poser. I get compliments everywhere I go. Not to mention that I can ride this bike all day and just keep wanting more. A truly awesome bike. Show less

Wrote a year ago that my '98 1200S was a fine bike. Now a year later, it is still a great machine and I love it. No maintenance problems of any kind. (14,000 miles) I use Mobil 1, 15w-50 in my bikes ('95 Gold Wing) with no problem. I think it shifts easier with Mobil 1. After rejetting, I get 35-37 MPG where I got 40-42 before. I think this is due to heavier right hand as well as the jets...ha ha It is a screamer. I don't know just how fast it would be. Too much for me, I know. I am at 230 pounds. If a lighter person were to ride it...WOW, hang on. STILL THE MOST BANG FOR THE BUCK!! Ride careful. Show less

It is my first bike, but I love it, great price, good looks, more than enough speed, will twist with almost anyone, reliability. Also very comfortable to ride any distance. Why spend $1500-$3000 more for another 5-10 mph. 145+mph is enough for me anyway. Show less

I have a 98 bandit 1200s in dark red. so far, its got 3600 miles..it's sweet no problems yet. The power is plentiful and can lift the front wheels easily. Gas mileage has dropped somewhat due to exhaust mods. Otherwise, it handles great, is no looker, but watch out..drop a gear and you'll see me disapear. I recommend the Bandit for anyone looking for a reliable, powerful and comfortable ride. Show less

I have 24000 miles on my 1997 Bandit1200 and have been very happy with it. I put a Corbin seat w/backrest for my wife -- I'm afraid I might loose her on it. I also put engine case guards and a Bandit tank cover I got at my Suzuki dealer on it. I have been thinking about getting a newer one but I don't care for the style of the 2001 as much as the 97-2000 models. I have a blue one and don't like the other colors as much. If I keep it I am going to install a jet kit from Hole Shot, because it is not very responsive when cold. Show less

I purchased my 98, Katana in March '99; I've put 8700 miles on it so far, and loved every minute of it. It's a great bike. It was a bit slow for me but I took care that. So for you daring speed demons that like me could not afford a true supersport or the insurance, this is what you do. First the pipe, go with a Yoshy or a D and D pipe. Stage One jet kit is food for thought. don't pipe without jetting. Now, sprockets, go down to a 14 in the front, up to a 47 in the rear. This will you excellent low end power and some mid, but, it will also take just a little from the top speedo, will limit it to about 110mph to 120mph.but how often do you go this fast anyway? don't answer that!! I don't wanna know. Ha ha ha ... Anyway when you change the sprocket you will also need a new chain, I suggest a sealed o-ring. Add a set of new Avon Azzaro steal belted radials and your set up for street racing, now you have a sleeper on your hands. Now don't kill yourself or take unnecessary chances, just have fun and surprise those GSXR 750's with your newfound power. After today I will no longer own one, I traded it for a cruiser, I'm 37 years old with a new born son, so I guess it time to slow down hu? So shadow 750 ace deluxe, it is from now on. Have fun and be careful. Show less

I bought my '98 Bandit new in January '99.It had a bit of a lean stumble at 3500rpm and ran bad below 3000rpm. A stage three jet kit and a Two Brothers full exhaust system increased power about twenty percent. The motor makes good power from 3000 to 6000rpm then it really takes off. Still runs crummy below 3000rpm, valve overlap. Stiffer springs and a damper rod re-valve plus a new rear shock help handling a whole bunch, but the frame is still kinda flexy. The stock tires are OK if you spend all of your time on the freeway, but Metzeler mez4's work a lot better in the twisty stuff. A good bike for the tall and fat, like me. Show less

The katana 750 is my ninth machine. First one to be purchased brand new .The mileage now is over 12,000 miles and I am loving every minute! The bike is very user friendly, no surprises, and no complaints. It's fast, fun, comfy and reliable! <br /> Love it. Show less