Though today a multi-media campaign would be in the works, all Suzuki had to do was paint their GS1000S to match Wes Cooley’s back-to-back AMA championship winner to cause a sensation. Today’s example is a real survivor but has had stem to stern attention.
1980 Suzuki GS1000S Wes Cooley for sale on eBay
Wes Cooley specs read like the standard GS they’re based on, but with some internal part differences and larger valves, the air cooled liter was good for 90 horses. The twin downtube frame reviewed as rock solid, and dual shocks and air adjustable forks were house brand but reportedly better than usual. An 18-inch rear wheel was specified for additional ground clearance and brakes were triple 295mm disks, slotted up front. Flatter bars hid behind the generous bikini fairing that had unusual anti-lift chines.
Presented by a Florida collector / restorer, this example shows almost 42K miles, and looks very good, with a blueprinted engine. The stainless exhaust is a bit short to be popular with the neighbors, but this isn’t your daily rider. Braided brake lines along with new tires and battery will serve the next owner. Comments from the eBay auction –
WES COOLEY Numbers series correct, this is quite a machine has 41k on clock , but it has been totally reconditioned / rebuilt / restored. This is a high Performance machine, the engine has been ported / cams / crank /clutch upgrades / Dyna ignition / 33mm round slide carbs / 4 into 1 s.s. exhaust / new tires / battery s.s. brake lines / fork brace / the list goes on. The ’80 is the one to have as it comes factory with the big port head along with the porting and carbs makes this bike way faster than my ’92 GSX-R1100.
Wes also won the Suzuka 8 hour race twice for Yoshimura, making him a legendary figure on the far side of the Pacific as well. A career-changing accident injured the future AMA Hall of Fame member at Sears Point in 1985, and he took up a medical career after his recovery. With only several hundred ever in existence, this example deserves further attention and maybe a push of the Make Offer button.
-donn
What’s that? Anti-wheelie winglets? In 1980? Ahead of its time!