HIGHLIGHTS
- One owner, ultra rare and collectable motorbike
- Original frame and engine numbers
- Just over 25,000 miles
- Not ridden for 18 years
- Will require recommissioning and/or restoring
THE APPEAL
The early 1980’s brought Turbo-mania with Suzuki joining the party in 1983 with the XN85. It was designed as an out-and-out sports machine from day one and offered a claimed 85 bhp with a potential turbo-boosting top speed of 128 mph and impressive sports bike handling characteristics.
One of just 1,153 built, this particular bike has not been ridden for some 18 years and will clearly require a degree of re-commissioning to get it up to speed once again. With low mileage and professional servicing history, the vendor, who has serviced this bike in the past, assures us that the engine turns over and should run well after a thorough going over.
Following the lay-up, all the components appear to be intact, and despite it’s age, this rare example still looks edgy and purposeful with ‘go-faster’ angles and decals. According to the website ‘how many left’ we found just one road registered example on U.K. roads.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- First registered on the 10th August 1983
- V5 (in previous owner’s name)
- Original registration number
- Owner’s Manual
- Service book
- Sorn paperwork
- MOT, servicing and parts invoices
- 2 sets of keys
Owned exclusively by an ex. police officer, this Suzuki was purchased from Suzuki dealers, Aeros, in Norbury, London.
Looking at the service book we can see some early stamps from Aeros, one from Frontiers Motor Cycles in 1992 and one from G.D. Brown Motorcycles in 1999.
We understand the last MOT was also carried out by G.D. Brown, in 2003 at 23,942 miles.
THE CONDITION
- Please check out the photographs
- Identification plate in-situ
- Original silver paintwork
- Protective half fairing
- Visible surface corrosion throughout
- Instrument cluster appears sound
- Switchgear and electrics may need attention
- Presentable saddle
- Original 16/17” alloy wheels
- Older Michelin tyres
THE MECHANICS
- 673 cc 4-stroke, four-valve DOHC engine
- IHI turbocharger
- Electronic fuel injection
- A claimed 85 bhp and torque of 56.4 ft-Ib @ 6,500 rpm
- 5-speed gearbox
- 20-litre fuel tank
- Large oil cooler
- Telescopic front forks with antidive units
- Aluminium rear swing arm with Suzuki Full Floater and single Kayaba Damper
- 10” dual disc front brake and 10.8” single rear disc
SUMMARY
Of their time, the turbo-powered machines from the ’80’s have their own niche in motorcycling history and this rare Suzuki XN85 is no exception. (mullet and shoulder pads optional).
Now requiring a partial, or full restoration (your decision), it represents a fantastic chance to get your hands on a complete and appreciating Japanese sports bike to overhaul and enjoy riding.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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