As the big four were skirmishing in the 400cc race-replica department, Suzuki’s GSX-R400R was never the most popular. But its rugged good looks, called dated back then, recall a dynamic era in sportbikes.
Like most of the 400-4 machines of the 80’s and 90’s, the GSX-R 400 was a junior rider’s bike in the Japanese home market and other countries with progressive licensing, but an afterthought elsewhere. Even with limited racing heritage, they are equipped and styled to thrill, with 59 hp, dual disk brakes, and full endurance fairings. The resemblance to a GSX-R 750 was no accident, and improvements since the introduction in 1984 included a large-section alloy frame, four-piston front calipers, two piece radiator, and 4-into-1 exhaust.
This particular 400 has been someone’s favorite with 12,000 miles and Utah registration, but more recently part of a collection, and carefully preserved. Just a couple of minor corrections stand between it and the next concours. From the eBay auction:
From the Suzuki room comes a very rare bike, A gorgeous 1990 Suzuki GSX-R400 with 19,458 kilometers (12,090 miles). Bike is in gorgeous condition with only a few issues. There is a dent in the right side of the fuel tank and the right front blinker mount is cracked and needs replaced. Scratches on both sides of the bike. This bike is a great candidate for restoration. Bike runs perfectly and will be serviced with new fluids and filters and a new battery installed for the lucky buyer. This GSX-R is 100% original. 100% OEM fairings and components. Bikes comes with a Utah state title and is titled as a street motorcycle for road use.
-donn
“Limited racing heritage” is a bit of misconception. These were basically F3 class racers for the road, that includes the famous Suzuka 4hours (feeder series for F1 class and 8hours), where semi-factory backed machines fought. International racing outside of the US, F3 class bikes were huge, beyond the licensing system. That’s why you see so much sophisticated tech went into those bikes.
By the way, this collector has so many cool bikes, and we’ve seen some of them, I wonder what is left. I see that he has RGV250, later FZR400, NC30, GSXR400R (sp version), can’t wait to see the whole thing! I’d be seriously tempted by some of them.
It has definitely been fun to watch. I really like this baby GSXR. Was a great era for the styling of the series.
Like the GSXR as well, but am REALLY wanting to see that CBR900RR that’s lurking in the background ! This seller has so, so many bikes in that house… (need to remain calm)
Yes his living room is full of cool toys that we are gonna get to see cross the block eventually.
Interesting the frame design here. It isn’t the twin loop design from the bigger GSXR offerings from this time period. Seems a precursor to the 1997 perimeter frame redesign.
I do believe you mean the 96′.
Mike – I would assume no need for those beefy frame spars to cradle the engine like on the bigger 750 and 1100. The frame on this bike looks to be a riff on an RGV 250 unit.
Based on the Vin code (GK73A) is a 1988 with 1989 swingarm, not a 1990 model. Also, not having USD forks and 4-1exhaust or correct frame similar to GSXR-750 is a dead give away. But most importantly the Vin code for 1990 is GK76A.