Suzuki GS 650 G Katana - 1981 Specifications and Reviews

The 1981 Suzuki GS 650 G Katana is a middleweight sport bike designed for riders seeking responsive performance and nimble handling. Its 674cc inline-four engine delivers 73 horsepower and reaches 197 km/h, providing genuine sportiness with practical everyday usability. The bike is best known for its distinctive angular Katana styling and accessible power delivery that appeals to experienced riders wanting sport-oriented excitement.

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General information

CategorySport
Year1981
ModelSuzuki GS 650 G Katana

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel controlDOHC
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke62.0 x 55.8 mm (2.4 x 2.2 inches)
Compression9.4:1
Top speed197.0 km/h (122.4 mph)
Power73.00
Engine typeIn-line four, four-stroke
Capacity:674.00 ccm (41.13 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions4.25-17
Front tyre dimensions3.25-19

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity23.00 litres (6.08 gallons)
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc239.0 kg (526.9 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

73 hp
Peak Power
4.8s
0-60 mph
122.4 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track45%
City55%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding60%
Touring65%
Passenger60%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits an intermediate to experienced rider comfortable with a heavier, shaft-driven 1980s four-cylinder that rewards smooth, deliberate inputs rather than aggressive flicking.
PurposeIt's best suited to spirited road riding and moderate-distance touring, blending Katana styling with air-cooled four-cylinder performance rather than outright track ambition.
Rider FitAt around 239 kg with a fairly upright but sporty riding position, it demands a rider of reasonable strength and height to manage low-speed maneuvers and stops confidently.
CharacterIt has the character of a classic early-80s sport-standard: a torquey, air-cooled DOHC four delivering smooth, linear power with a distinctive shaft-drive feel and iconic angular Katana styling.
Not Ideal ForIt's not ideal for riders seeking modern lightweight agility, off-road capability, or cutting-edge sport-bike cornering performance.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Reviews

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