The Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit, also known as the Bandit 1200, is a naked sportbike/standard motorcycle that debuted in 1996. Characterized by its torquey, air-cooled, 1157 cc inline-four cylinder engine, the GSF1200 is celebrated for its accessible performance, comfortable riding position, and versatile nature, making it suitable for commuting, touring, and spirited riding. Its engineering emphasizes reliability and relatively straightforward mechanicals, offering a robust steel diamond frame and predictable handling. Produced in Japan, this model represents a lineage focused on delivering a refined large-displacement experience, balancing power with user-friendliness. This comprehensive Service and Repair Manual, written in English, covers the Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit models from 1996 through 1999. It provides detailed guidance on all major systems, including the engine, fuel, ignition, transmission, chassis, brakes, and electrical systems. The manual offers step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance, adjustments, repairs, and rebuilds, along with troubleshooting procedures for common issues and essential technical specifications. Its scope is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the motorcycle, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Suzuki Model: GSF1200 Bandit Common Name: Bandit 1200 Motorcycle Type: Naked Sportbike / Standard Generation Generation Code: GV75A (early) Codes Chassis Code: GV75A 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Large-displacement naked sportbike/standard motorcycle. Target Audience: Riders seeking accessible performance, comfort for commuting and touring, and a platform for customization. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Yamaha XJR1200/1300, Kawasaki Zephyr 1100/1200, Honda CB1000SF/CB1300. Key Features Engine Type: Torquey air-cooled inline-four cylinder engine. Handling: Known for its stable chassis and predictable handling. Versatility: Adaptable for everyday riding, touring with modifications, and spirited canyon carving. Simplicity: Relatively straightforward mechanicals compared to more modern, electronically complex motorcycles. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Regions Covered: Global (specific regional variations may exist) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 300-400 Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, valve train, timing chain, oil pump. Fuel System: Carburetor inspection, cleaning, adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, petcock. Ignition System: Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit, wiring. Transmission: Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, gear shift mechanism, transmission oil. Chassis And Frame: Frame inspection, front fork, rear shock absorber, swingarm, steering head bearings. Brakes: Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinders, brake fluid bleeding, brake pad replacement, hydraulic lines. Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, starter motor. Exhaust System: Muffler and exhaust pipe inspection and replacement. Wheel And Tires: Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, spoke adjustment (if applicable). Bodywork: Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting, fenders. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug checks, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake fluid checks. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Repair And Rebuild: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Adjustments: Carburetor synchronization, clutch and throttle cable adjustment, suspension adjustments. Specification Charts: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for both amateur and professional mechanics. Diagnostic Capability: Includes troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues. Special Tools: Identifies specific tools required for certain procedures where applicable. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF for easy keyword lookup. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution scans of original diagrams and photographs. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Air-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, inline-four cylinder Displacement: 1157 cc (70.6 cu in) Bore X Stroke: 79.0 mm x 58.2 mm (3.11 in x 2.29 in) Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 Performance Horsepower Est: 110-115 HP @ 8000 RPM (approx.) Torque Est: 95-100 Nm @ 6000 RPM (approx.) Fuel System Carburetion: 4 x Mikuni BST36SS constant velocity carburetors Fuel Capacity: 20 Liters (5.3 US gallons) Lubrication Oil Capacity W Filter: 3.9 Liters (4.1 US qt) Cooling System Cooling Method: Air-cooled Ignition System Ignition Type: Digital CDI Engine Build Cylinder Block Material: Aluminum alloy with cast iron liners 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-speed constant mesh Clutch Type: Wet multi-plate Features Final Drive: O-ring sealed chain drive Fluid Specifications Transmission Oil Type: API GL-1 or GL-4, SAE 80W-90 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 2,165 mm (85.2 in) Width: 775 mm (30.5 in) Height: 1,115 mm (43.9 in) Wheelbase: 1,470 mm (57.9 in) Ground Clearance: 135 mm (5.3 in) Weights Dry Weight Est: 210 kg (463 lbs) Wet Weight Est: 230 kg (507 lbs) Front Tire Size: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) Rear Tire Size: 180/55ZR17M/C (73W) Wheel Bolt Pattern: N/A (cast wheels) 🛡️ Safety Features...
The Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit, also known as the Bandit 1200, is a naked sportbike/standard motorcycle that debuted in 1996. Characterized by its torquey, air-cooled, 1157 cc inline-four cylinder engine, the GSF1200 is celebrated for its accessible performance, comfortable riding position, and versatile nature, making it suitable for commuting, touring, and spirited riding. Its engineering emphasizes reliability and relatively straightforward mechanicals, offering a robust steel diamond frame and predictable handling. Produced in Japan, this model represents a lineage focused on delivering a refined large-displacement experience, balancing power with user-friendliness.
This comprehensive Service and Repair Manual, written in English, covers the Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit models from 1996 through 1999. It provides detailed guidance on all major systems, including the engine, fuel, ignition, transmission, chassis, brakes, and electrical systems. The manual offers step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance, adjustments, repairs, and rebuilds, along with troubleshooting procedures for common issues and essential technical specifications. Its scope is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the motorcycle, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
Successor to the GSX1100G, aimed at providing a more accessible and refined large-displacement standard motorcycle.
Key Updates In Period:
Minor aesthetic changes and potential minor tuning revisions across model years 1996-1999. Later models saw significant updates like fuel injection.
Production
Production Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
Generally well-regarded for its power, comfort, and value within its class during its production years. Specific awards may vary by publication and region.
Ratings
User Reviews Summary:
Praised for its torquey engine, comfortable riding position, and robust build quality. Criticisms often focus on slightly dated styling and suspension compared to more modern sportbikes.