Update 6.27.2021: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc
Already the stuff of legend, the GSX-R750 got a substantial revision in 1988, with a higher revving engine, “slingshot” carburetors, and 17-inch wheels. RSBFS reader Jim’s GSX-R has a professional re-paint and several neat updates.
1989 Suzuki GSX-R750 for sale asking $6,900
Beside the semi-flatside carburetors, the new 748cc engine had larger valves than it predecessor, and hotter cams to operate them. 112 hp at 11,000 rpm was the final result, with max torque of 55 ft.-lbs. of torque measured at a lofty 10,000 rpm. The enhanced air-oil cooling system on the engine took an extra quart and ran it through a two-stage oil pump and oversize oil cooler. The revised alloy chassis was substantially more rigid, and added some 15 lbs. 43mm cartridge forks replaced the air-adjustable models but lost their anti-dive circuit. Brakes remained excellent with a 60-to-zero distance of 122 feet, and the full fairing had the dual headlight looks of an endurance racer.
Jim’s K-model has relatively low miles and looks to have been garaged consistently. The full Yoshimura exhaust is complemented by a jet kit, and the wider rear wheel makes for a bigger contact patch. Jim’s comments about his bike:
This is a very clean and unmolested 1989 GSX-R 750. I believe I am the 5th adult owner, previous owner was an engineer in Southern California, and by the previous owner the bike has always been garaged and well cared for. It survived the last 30 years without having its frame polished, being raced or otherwise abused. Low original miles (22,537) and in very nice shape. Few left like this anywhere, truly a classic. It pains me to sell this bike, but it’s time to thin the herd.
Prior to me purchasing it, the previous owner had the bike professionally painted and re-decaled. He said the original bodywork was un-crashed and in good shape physically but suffered from fading and the yellowing you will often seen on the decals. He left the tank and front fender original as they were nice – likewise the solo cowl is original Suzuki paint. They are in excellent shape. Mechanically solid with the carbs just cleaned a month ago, Pirelli Diablo’s are in great shape, almost new RK chain, fresh brake fluid flush and bleed front and rear and also has had a recent oil change. Bike is turn key and ready to ride. Everything works!
It’s very original with a few mods. Period correct Yoshimura Duplex header, a newer Yosh slip on exhaust, Factory Pro Jet Kit, has an 1100 rear shock as well as 1100 gauge surround. Rear wheel is from a 1990 to run a 180 rear tire.
Very hard to find unmolested GSX-R’s of this vintage anymore and prices are going up every year – and I do not think you will find one this nice cosmetically. The bike is located in Maryland near Washington DC and you are welcome to come inspect in person. Bike has a CLEAN and CLEAR Maryland title.
Jim is asking $6,900 for his GSX-R750.
The 2nd generation GSX-R750 weighed a bit more, but with the additional power, the pound/horsepower ratio improved a hair. Though the model was well on its way to becoming a classic, the J and K years had a lot of nice improvements, and took the AMA SuperBike crown with Jamie James in ’89. Jim and his previous owners have taken nice care of this GSX-R, and avoided the personalization pitfalls.
Jim is asking $6,900 for his GSX-R750.
