Red and White Slingshot: 1989 Suzuki GSX-R 750

This entry has been published on June 29, 2014 and links to eBay may have been updated to point to similar bikes of interest.

I know the purists will tell me that the traditional colors for a GSX-R are white and blue but I think this red and white color scheme was the most attractive color scheme of the early GSX-R models. Plus this is a “slingshot” model in the 750cc configuration, which is quickly becoming one of the more sought after bikes.

1989 Suzuki GSX-R 750 for sale one eBay

For anyone not familiar with the “slingshot” bikes, the term refers to the Mikuni model BST36SS carbs mounted on the bike, which were 36mm diameter and featured vacuum operated slides. The slide cross section resembled the shape of a slingshot.

The slingshot GSXR-750 and GSXR-1110 models were available from 1988-91. While the 1100 series developed a reputation for handling problems, the 750 slingshot bike was considered to be one of the first true repli-racers. The slingshot had an improved handling chassis (due to a thicker frame), new 43mm front forks with new damping rods inside, a full floater monoshock linkage at the back, new 4 piston calipers on the front disc brakes and new 17 inch diameter three spoke wheels.

But the big change in the slingshot bikes was the re-worked motor. A shorter stroke, bigger valves, 36mm carbs pumping in the go juice and a stronger crank, running in 50% more oil too. Power was up to a claimed 112bhp at 11,000rpm, aided by two air intake ducts set next to the headlights which were one of the first ram air type performance mods seen on bikes.

The last one of these was posted on RSBFS was back in January of this year and went for a cool $8,350. This one has more miles but looks to be in truly excellent condition.

from the seller’s listing:

Up for auction is my 1989 Suzuki GSXR Slingshot 750… All original with only 12k miles Bike is in excellent condition other then blemish on lower right fairing from being knocked over… Just had shop put new plugs and oil change. He told me the carbs need to be cleaned ,but runs good. 2 owner bike with records. Bike is in excellent condition.