14 August. Friday 2026
Suzuki GSX 400 L - 1981 Specifications and Reviews
The 1981 Suzuki GSX 400 L is a lightweight custom cruiser ideally suited for beginner and intermediate riders seeking affordable, practical transportation. Its air-cooled 399cc twin engine delivers modest 27 horsepower with reliable 6-speed transmission, making it accessible for daily commuting and casual riding. Known for its manageable weight and approachable performance, this model exemplifies early 1980s cruiser styling with genuine usability.
1981
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 1981 |
| Model | Suzuki GSX 400 L |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel control | DOHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 67.0 x 56.6 mm (2.6 x 2.2 inches) |
| Compression | 9.0:1 |
| Power | 27.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Twin |
| Capacity: | 399.00 ccm (24.35 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 186.0 kg (410.1 pounds) |
Suzuki GSX 400 L dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 4.60-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 3.60-19 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 141.0 km/h (87.6 mph) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 11.50 litres (3.04 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
27 hp
Peak Power
9.5s
0-60 mph
87.6 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City55%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This bike suits a beginner-to-intermediate rider looking for a relaxed, low-stress introduction to cruiser-style motorcycling. |
| Purpose | It's built for laid-back cruising and casual road riding rather than outright speed or sport performance. |
| Rider Fit | Its modest 186 kg weight and low-slung custom cruiser stance make it manageable for riders of average or smaller stature. |
| Character | It has a classic early-80s Japanese cruiser character, with a small-displacement air-cooled twin delivering easygoing, unhurried power. |
| Not Ideal For | It is not for riders seeking high-speed thrills, aggressive cornering ability, or serious off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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