0610_GSXR1100_01.jpg?v=1717978746 BIKES
PICK UP
BIKES

Legacy Revamped: SUZUKI GSX-R1100 Custom by BrightLogic

 9 min read

BrightLogic's GSX-R1100

0610_GSXR1100_01.jpg

The 1990 GSX-R1100L is based on the '89 GSX-R1100K, which has a late model oil-cooled 1127cc engine and 17-inch front and rear wheels. The GSX-R1100 was upgraded from this model to inverted forks and a 1-inch wider rear wheel in the 5.50-17 size. So, how would Bright Logic deal with this nearly 35-year-old model? This particular bike was customized for sale, but keep in mind the construction is based on the same concept as custom orders that they receive from bike owners. The first step for this custom was to check the condition of the engine, and since it was good, it was used as is. The carburetor was overhauled, and similarly, each part was removed and checked. At the same time, they decided on the concept they wanted to go with: "Let's make a bike that is just right for touring, keeping the oil-cooled stock specs and just changing out the exhaust."

0610_GSXR1100_02.jpg

The brake calipers were cleaned, the brake hoses were made new, and the aluminum banjo bolts were replaced with stainless steel for durability due to their age. The clutch was also overhauled and the piston seals were replaced for better and lighter operation. The headlights were cleaned inside, a new clear Windshield made by SCREEN CRAFT was installed, and the exterior was repainted with gun metallic paint. The sides are also accented with a large SUZUKI logo like the modern GSX-R1000R. The front and rear axles and chain adjuster are also new, and all the bolts were replaced. It would be easy to overlook these small details, but refurbishment of even the smallest part will make a difference in the end. After the photoshoot, work continued on the seat, which was reupholstered with new foam added inside, and the wheels were finished with a glossy black diamond coat. Taking a look at the finished product it is plain to see that this flagship model of yesteryear can be enjoyed as a lightweight, high-torque sport tourer while retaining the merits of the classic oil-cooled GSX-R1100. Bright Logic's process of "assessing the condition and working to make it better" is the same for any bike regardless of the era or manufacturer, and as we have said in previous articles, it's a good example to follow. Another thing is that many of the bikes that have been serviced by Bright Logic are ridden for a very long time. With regular maintenance they can keep going for 20 or 25 years. This is because of the solid workmanship at the base. This applies to the oil-cooled GSX-R and, of course, to the modern GSX-R1000 as well.

Handle

0610_GSXR1100_04.jpg

The gauges are mounted on an aluminum panel, and both the engine tachometer (center) and speedometer (left side) have the zero position at the very bottom. The stem, clip-on handlebars, and NISSIN left and right master cylinders are stock for the GSX-R1100L.

Bodyworks

0610_GSXR1100_03.jpg

The headlights have been thoroughly cleaned inside to restore clarity. The windshield made by SCREEN CRAFT offers excellent transparency and a wide field of vision. This windshield was in use back when the oil-cooled GSX-R was used for racing, and is still being manufactured. This one is brand new.

0610_GSXR1100_05.jpg

The exterior was cleaned and repainted in gun metallic color. A large SUZUKI logo sticker, similar to the current GSX-R1000, gives the GSX-R1100 a very different look. An NHK Steering Damper is also installed on the left side of the chassis.

0610_GSXR1100_06.jpg

The seat, which had the internal foam removed, was refilled after the photoshoot, and it was reupholstered to restore it to its original style.

Engine

0610_GSXR1100_07.jpg

The 2-valve, 1-rocker, 1127cc oil-cooled straight-4 engine was confirmed to be in good shape and used as is.

0610_GSXR1100_08.jpg

The stock BST36 carburetor underwent an overhaul before use. The aluminum double cradle frame also remains stock for the GSX-R1100L.

Chassis

0610_GSXR1100_09.jpg

The φ41mm inverted front forks and front brakes with Nissin 4-piston calipers + slotted discs are stock, and the brake lines that had already been replaced were rebuilt at this time, including changing the banjo bolts/fittings from aluminum to stainless steel.

0610_GSXR1100_10.jpg

The aluminum square swingarm and rear shocks are also stock. The stock wheels are 3.50-17/5.50-17 size, and the silver-finished wheels in the photos were later finished in black. The rear tire is a modern 180/55.

0610_GSXR1100_11.jpg

The rear brakes with 2-piston calipers and drilled discs are also stock. The exhaust system is a YOSHIMURA Titanium Cyclone (full exhaust). The steps are stock.

Gallery

0610_GSXR1100_01.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_02.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_03.jpg
0610_GSXR1100_04.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_05.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_06.jpg
0610_GSXR1100_07.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_08.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_09.jpg
0610_GSXR1100_10.jpg 0610_GSXR1100_11.jpg

Specifications

Part Details
Exhaust YOSHIMURA Titanium Cyclone (GV73A) Carbon Cover
Handle / Steering NHK Steering Damper Kit
Bodyworks SCREEN CRAFT Windshield GSX-R1100 (Model 89K,90L,91M,92N)

About BrightLogic

BrightLogic has been established by ex-YOSHIMURA technicians with abundant experience of racing. They provide customizing parts which improve the performance level of circuit vehicles as well as all types of motorcycles.

top_bright_2.jpg

BrightLogic brand page

Original Source of this Article

Heritage & Legends

Hakuyo
Hakuyo

editor

Hakuyo

A foreigner who rides in Japan, Japanese call this "Gaijin Rider". 6 year in the Webike global team. He feels and shares the real bike life in Japan then presents you how interesting Japanese customs are.