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The do-it-all bike for grownups

The Bandit 1200S is my third bike. I started off with a GS500 then graduated to a Katana 750 (which I LOVED) and then changed for a black bandit. I have ridden numerous other bikes including a GSXR-1100W (last model) and a 2008 'Busa (incredible engine!). I also test-drove the new bandit 1250.



In... my opinion, the '05 Bandit is one of the last real all-rounder bikes. It is also a very comfy machine and a joy to ride.


Engine
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The 1157cc Air/Oil cooled carbureted inline-4 that powers the bandit is certainly nothing new. It is mainly a larger bore, heavier/tougher everything version of the even older GSXR1100 engine (mid-80s version). Although it produces about 25% less top horsepower than the old racer engine, the Bandit's power plant is meatier in the low and mid-range. The detuning also makes it bulletproof.

It is a very pleasing engine. Ultra-smooth throttle response, torque aplenty over the whole (wide) powerband, and very strong in the second half of the meter. It lacks the afterburner-like punch you get at the very top from the GSX-Rs though.

The simplicity of the engine means that it is quite easy to service yourself with a minimum of special tools. About the only thing I get done at the dealer is carb sync, since I lack the needed tools and know-how.

It is generally recognized as one of the most trouble-free motorcycle powerplant ever made, with plenty of owners claiming very high mileage with no worries.


Transmission
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Very effective precise and smooth Suzuki transmission. No worries here.

Could use a 6th gear to save on gas while cruising on the freeway but the current gearing of the 5-speed box seems just right, with a short first, strong second, short third and fourth and long tall fifth.

On engaging second gear, the big bandit easily pulls as much as the Katana engaging the third. (assuming 4K shifts in the city).


Chassis & Handling
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Although powerful, the Bandit is not a sportsbike. The heavy steel-tube double-cradle frame is nothing spectacular, but it gets the job done. Suspensions are way too soft on default settings but easily adjusted to do a reasonable job while preserving comfort.

The braking system is quite heavy-duty, with 6-piston calipers at the front, but still feels a bit soft. Higher quality brake pads and some tweaking might be all it needs though (haven't tried yet).

The bike steers very well and turns quicker than expected for a bike this size. The short wheelbase (56.3") certainly helps.


Ergonomics
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This is where the Bandit really shines. I'm 5'11" and 200lbs, and I thought the Katana's riding position was perfect. Well, the bandit's even better. It is roomier in every direction, especially with regards to footpeg placement, while remaining compact enough for precise control. You sit somewhat more upright, which improves vision in traffic and reduces tensions in the shoulders on long rides. Wind protection from the half-fairing is excellent and the wide engine shields your legs somewhat. Lower fairing kits are available and I have seen a few that were quite nice, although I prefer the black naked bike with golden pipes look myself.

This is definately a bike you can ride all day long (with breaks!) and enjoy on long haul trips.

With a set of hard bags from Givi and a Garmin Zumo GPS, It can be turned into a very effective light-tourer. Serious wanderers might want to add a Corbin seat or a taller windscreen. I find both unnecessary but would probable spring for heated grips to add a few weeks to my riding season.


Value
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Another strong point to be sure. A lot of bike for the money when new, and still a bargain when used.
Cheap to run (regular gas, 45mpg), cheap to maintain (you can do almost everything at home), cheap to repair and cheap to insure. Tons of add-ons and enhancements available.


Conclusion
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With every new motorcycle on the market seemingly catering to an ever more sharply defined sub-market, the Bandit 1200S stands as one of the last examples of the Standard bike. From stunt bike, to dragster to canyon carver to daily commuter, to backroad rider to long distance tourer, it can do almost everything, and do it reasonably well.

With some adjustments and accessories you can easily tune it to YOUR riding activities.
This is a bike that will not burn a hole in your pocket and will certainly put a smile on your face every time you ride.

Now if only spring could come faster... Read Full Review