The PerformanceEra

A chopper-style cruiser created by enlarging the bore of the 1985 VS750 Intruder by 3 mm to 805 cc. Its liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve V-twin drove the rear wheel by shaft, plastic parts were kept to a minimum in favour of chrome plating, and a 685 mm seat gave a relaxed riding position.

Unveiled in 1994 amid the trend for unfaired "naked" bikes, the XJR1200 topped its class with what was then the largest displacement available. Its air-cooled 1,188 cm³ DOHC inline four offered strong low- to mid-range torque in clean-cut Yamaha styling. Specifications listed are for the 1995 model.

A GP500 factory machine used in 1994 and 1995. A change of frame material optimised rigidity balance, and moving the air intake from the nose to inside the cowl improved aerodynamics; the 1995 version adopted ram-air pressurisation of the airbox. Liquid-cooled 499 cm³ two-stroke V4 with crankcase reed induction and a 6-speed gearbox.

The second generation of the Bandit 400cc naked line that began in 1989. A flowing form from fuel tank to tail lamp was paired with a round headlamp and bullet-shaped meters. The 400V carried the VC engine, which switches cams according to engine speed, while radial tyres and an aluminium swingarm reduced weight.

A 400 cc cruiser introduced in 1996 as the successor to the Virago 400. A chrome-plated, air-cooled 399 cm³ V-twin sat in a chassis inspired by drag racing, with a low seat and long wheelbase. Gear ratios favoured the mid-speed range for city riding, and final drive was by shaft.

A 1998 supersport developed around the concept of "unsurpassed excitement" on winding roads. It paired a light, compact liquid-cooled 998 cm³ DOHC five-valve inline four with a Deltabox II frame. Specifications listed are for the overseas-market model.

Suzuki’s first 400 cc scooter, added in October 1998 above the 250 cc Skywave launched that February. A 385 cc liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve single with a balancer shaft was combined with large 13-inch tyres, a link-type monoshock and linked front and rear disc brakes.

An export flagship developed under the “Ultimate Sport” concept. Styling modelled on Japanese armour and helmets for aerodynamics and wind protection, an aluminium twin-spar frame and a 1,298 cc liquid-cooled inline four with side cam chain combined to deliver 175 PS.