Description
Highlights
Japanese import
New MOT 19/ 07/ 2023
Great condition
Recently recommissioned and serviced
Rare pop-up headlight model
The Appeal / Background
Due to the over whelming success of the 1100 Kat, Suzuki released a 750 machine, which to look at was almost identical to its larger brother. By 1983 they felt that some subtle changes were needed to keep pace with competition, on the technology front. Hence the mark II Katana was released. These had 16 inch front and 17 inch rear wheels and the power was upped to about 72hp, but to look at, it was near enough identical to its predecessor.
By 1985 Suzuki felt that the 750 Kat was due for an overhaul again and so the mark III version was born. This was a completely new model, not just a face-lift. Although it was designed by Suzuki themselves, it still kept the Hans Muth lines. Mechanically the engine had been replaced by the new 16-value unit from the GSX750E. The running gear now had the Suzuki Full Floater suspension rear end and Positive Damping Forks at the front. Probably most noticeable of all however was the new fairing which now had a retractable (pop-up) headlight which helped give it an even sharper front end than the previous models.
The following info from Howie Drake, gives a little more insight into the different types of GSX750SE Katana in the UK (as far as he has been able to ascertain):
Ex Japan - Detuned from the standard GSX750ES, due to Japanese 750cc bhp limit, so only puts out about 70 bhp. You can tell these due to the Japanese warning light that illuminates if you go over 50 mph, replaced by a side stand warning light on non Japanese model. Suzuki UK imported approx. 75 of these as a special import.
The 1985 Katana 750 Mark 3 was the best and final version of the futuristic and impressive sports bike from Suzuki. It featured a more powerful 16-valve engine, upgraded suspension and in the case of the rare SE model a pop-up headlight built into the frame mounted aerodynamic fairing.
The striking design of the Katana with its sharp angles, blended-in bodywork and distinctive livery still looks impressive today and is now seen as an important bike in the history of Suzuki and the 1980’s, and thus very collectable.
Very few late model Katana found their way to the UK, especially the SE model, so this is a great opportunity to have a very nicely presented example of a rarely seen motorcycle.
My Katana - The History and Paperwork
· First registered in Japan
Imported to the UK in 1997
All import papers and all taxes paid
V5c present
MOT expires 18/ 07/ 2024
Very little history
1 set of keys
Serviced and ready to ride
Believed to have been imported from Japan in 1997 the bike is standard except for the after-market 4-into-1 exhaust system and is in very good overall condition having received a new coat of paint at sometime in its recent past. I have an incomplete original exhaust (missing one silencer) which you can also buy for a further £200. 00 – not listed)
Fully serviced recently with Bridgestone tyres fitted this very cool looking bike from the 1980’s is ready to ride and enjoy to the full (cost £258)
The Condition
Very good overall condition
Re-painted in its original colours
After-market 4-into-1 exhaust
The futuristic and aerodynamic design of the Katana makes it stand out from the crowd, especially with its distinctive livery and gold coloured frame.
Overall the bike presents very well with only a few marks picked up over the years from normal riding and use but there are no red flags or obvious signs of any accident damage, and it really is a very nice and clean example of a rare and interesting motorcycle.
The gold wheels are in very nice shape, as are all the other major components and surfaces, and it’s only the replacement exhaust system which detracts from its overall originality.
The Mechanics
750cc four-stroke
Pop-up headlight
Recently serviced
New Bridgestone tyres
Fully serviced and wearing new tyres at last MOT (07/ 22 MOT) the bike sailed through its most recent 07/ 23 MOT with no advisories. It starts on the button and immediately settles down to a nice even idle, with instant pick-up at a twist of the throttle.
The carbon exhaust end-can gives the bike a purposeful and addictive sound as it rises through the rev-range and the engine pulls well through the gears with no unwanted smoke or untoward noises.
. My Summary
The striking design of the Katana was a real departure for Suzuki in the 80’s and created quite a stir, and even now these very rare mid-sized models define an exciting era in the history of the Japanese Super-sport motorcycle development and, adding to this model’s rarity, how many other bikes feature the novel idea of a pop-up headlight?
Distinctive and still looking futuristic this Katana is a nice clean example of a bike that is a rare find on today’s roads.
I’m going to miss this bike when its gone Only selling as need to put my money into other things and hopefully I can get one again or one of my other all time favourites,
