Top Gear Acceleration Test: Which Classic Bike Is Quickest?

[@superzuki5831]

Bikes from that Era are the best, I like them all!!!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@redtobertshateshandles]

You've got me crying with nostalgia. Great sounds from these bikes. I can't believe how well you captured the sound. Thanks, that was great.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome!

[@spaceflight1019]

Your tests are real-world reviews, made under conditions that everyone encounters every day. I went to Thunder In The Valley a few years ago and was amazed by the numbers of V-Max bikes outfitted with touring gear. Asking the owners why gave one answer - V-Boost. It makes passes on two lane roads much faster than anything else, they said.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! I'm surprised by the touring V-Max bikes. The low gearing, stiff suspension, and torture-rack seat don't put me in a touring mindset. Maybe loaded down they ride better? I love the V-max in certain conditions (especially uphill on a mountain road where gravity helps the brakes). But the V-Max owners you spoke to are correct: passing power is never an issue!

[@oi32df]

...when the engagement of the second gear is still functional

[@tangledline]

I love how you had to say "Don't be offended"...lol. The way of the world these days. Thank you for a revisit of these awesome machines! The GS1100E is just an absolute jewel. I have missed so many opportunities to get one.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thank you! I've caught flack for the testing results on several occasions. I just released a newer acceleration test video with some new players. I have also changed the venue to a longer, more level straight. Let me know what tou think: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=c26SDA82eWiQUvDI

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Working in a bike shop was a revelation. You really get to see humanity. I worked in a shop where they sucked up to the customer. I know the guys at my local Indian and Royal Enfield shop. They don't get or tolerate the " whingers" as we call them in Australia.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@redtobertshateshandles Right on!

[@CCitis]

Damn there is a cheap one for sale right near me....

[@tangledline]

What city? link?@@CCitis

[@craigg4246]

I bought a red 1983 GS1100E brand new. That bike was so beautiful in it’s day, and nothing on the streets, or racetracks, could keep up with it. Yet was ultra reliable, smooth and very easy to ride.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! I love my GS Suzukis. Cheers

[@TomRivieremusic]

Me too I bought one brand new when it came out and I still have it. I love that bike.

[@craigg4246]

@@TomRivieremusic ready to sell it to a very good home?

[@ChadLasik-so8gw]

I’m sure u do. Very transparent this test is tainted. You used slower examples of the Honda and fastest Suzuki u could find

[@craigg4246]

@@ChadLasik-so8gw All examples of Hondas are slower than Suzukis back then.

[@vanningale495]

Wow that was great... loved the opportunity to see them wind up and the sounds they made, I was surprised by the winner but hey it makes sense, touring bikes are tuned for torque. My guess was the Yamaha 1100 before the test. Nice job Susuki.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! After running the Yamaha for a few hundred miles, I filmed another 40-80mph test video, and it did better. Feel free to check it out that video on the channel. Cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=jQP1hWkoIkk7AnbD

[@russellfore-p8r]

Your video warms the heart. Clocked many both peaceful & Thrilling miles. The sounds put a smile on my face. Good job.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@russellfore-p8r Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers!

[@flexjay87]

I would have guessed the Yamaha might take the 40-80 test. I would be curious about the math involved with this outcome, like the weight of bikes, gearing, tire size etc. For at least this test, it shows shaft drive bikes do not give up huge amounts of power like some people think. I believe it would be fun to strap your phone to each bike, using a GPS App, and then re do the 40-80 test, just to take away the possible difference in speedometer error that is common on mechanical drive bikes. This was interesting to watch !

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on. I may do that for future tests.

[@rogermcadams8806]

Why I like my old 82 G. The Kaw sounds good ( I can tell what it is just listening ) but I simply adore the sound on the Suzuki's when they're running right! Just great engines.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@calebcannon4653]

I just found this channel and love it so much! I've had several 80s UJMS over the years and think they're simply what a motorcycle is supposed to look/sound/handle like. My favorite is the GS1100G. I had a red one fitted with Vetter touring gear and put a LOT of miles on that thing....as well as doing a darn near full restoration. It always surprised my dad's friends how well it kept up with their late model sport tourers. I was looking to get a mid-sized UJM in the not too distant future.... I was wondering if you knew of any bike from the big 4 of that era had a 6 speed and a shaft drive in the 500-700 range? I would love a GS650G, but I would really like a OD gear for the sake of bar buzz.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I just sold a nice GS650G. The CB900C has essentially a 6-speed (5-speed with overdrive) and shaft-drive. It's also very smooth. I have owned three, and they're nice machines. Otherwise, the Yamaha Seca 750 and Honda's Nighthawk (650-700) are nice as well. Cheers!

[@calebcannon4653]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 thanks so much for the info! Keep up the good work!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@calebcannon4653 You're welcome!

[@doublenickel1000]

What a beautiful GS1100E! When they came out in the 80s I wanted one, but didn't😞 So a few years ago I got a 97 Bandit 1200 that's a pretty close spec to the old GS1100E and I love it. But it just doesn't have that look! Thanks for a great test and trip into the past.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome! The Bandit is also a fun bike and an antique (25+ years old) in it's own right, depending on the year. Cheers!

[@paullavergne2477]

That gs 1100e is beautiful

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks, Paul! Suzuki did a good job. Cheers!

[@joaoluizsantos5274]

Awesome video 🎉

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thank you! I posted a newer comparison video with more classic bikes in my new testing venue. You can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=eePocXpM8fQgYm_S

[@anthonyangeli256]

80 mph on those 2 lane country roads. You're way braver than me Jon. Course in my younger days.....I'm very fond of that 900. Love that model.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! At least the testing venue offers good line of sight. That becomes less as the corn gets taller! The Honda is a nice, smooth-riding machine!

[@anthonyangeli256]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 agree! Still have my '80 750 I bought back in '88. Great bike!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@anthonyangeli256 Right on!

[@oi32df]

​@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 It would be interesting to measure the current (2010 & up) CB1100 which is not very focused on power against these retro bike.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@oi32df Right on!

[@privateer0561]

HP/torque/gearing/weight all contribute to roll-on times. It is not surprising the1100G Suzuki was better given that it is a touring bike with lower gearing (and it's a two valve). I had the Suzuki GS 1100E like the one here, and it would smoke the others in any real contest of acceleration other than this one. And in this one, as soon as it got to 80 mph, it would motor right past them all...

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

It would be interesting to see at what speed the GS1100E would pass the others (in a controlled environment). It is ultimately the quickest and fastest bike in this test - as you point out. Cheers!

[@henryhawk978]

Nice comparison. My bike 🏆. Enjoyed the video Jon and RIDE SAFE OUT THERE!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks, you too Henry!

[@vanningale495]

What a great comparison, I expected the Yamaha 1100 to win, as a torque monster in the day, and was pleasantly surprised that the Suzuku was so good.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thank you! I had lots of fun making the video. Since completing this video, I have found a more level testing venue. I have been driving the XS1100 and putting more miles on it. The more I run it, the quicker it gets. I will be making another video at the new venue with some fresh bikes in the mix as well. Stay tuned! Cheers!

[@redtobertshateshandles]

I think that the fairing helps and the 4:1 too.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@redtobertshateshandles Maybe. I would like to try it with the stock exhaust just to see. Cheers!

[@straightchad8059]

All the machines are sweethearts ....must be difficult deciding which one to choose when the owner wants go out for a ride .

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Decisions, decisions! It usually comes down which one hasn't been ridden in a while instead of which one the owner wants to ride.

[@BiGDeE3]

good vid as always man .. i had the exact same CSR .. luv'd it ..

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks! That CSR is a fun one!

[@mrweeby1961]

I expected the 1100E to be quickest. The Honda was a dog but looks cool with the 4 mufflers. Too bad it wasn't an 1100F Super Sport instead of the 900. Must be great to be able to ride all those old bikes. I was on youtube looking at Kawasaki ZL900 and ZL1000 Eliminator videos. There are a few for sale and trying to re-remember them lol. Always loved the 900's looks even with the peanut capacity tank. I remember one of them new on the showroom floor that had some kind of body kit on it but that was so long ago I can't remember specifics now. Anyway, nice to see all these great bikes being kept alive.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks! I updated this video after tuning the GS1100E and XS1100 and they improved in the 40-80 times: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=mUzLALVf2xHEmRNW I was surprised by how close the 4 bikes were and how quick the FJ1200 was. It is really fun to get to ride the classic machines. Cheers!

[@louislopez55]

Sounds good to me! Keep ‘em coming!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks, will do!

[@OldManArmyJonno]

GS man myself, my faith rewarded!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! You gotta love the GSs!

[@stevemchale6363]

MAN : THE XS SPECIALS OF THAT ERA STILL HAVE A GORGEOUS PROFILE. TIMELESS BEUTY. IT HAD A SHAFT DRIVE THAT ROBBED HORSEPOWER AND ADDED WEIGHT AND STILL THE BIKE 'WOOPED' MOST OTHER BIKES OF THE DAY ❤

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Yes, it did!

[@blairrawls4858]

I love those 2 Suzukis Jon!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! Me too Blair!

[@georgeg7840]

I had an XS eleven special (1979) from late spring 1986 to fall of 1988, I had $400 (CDN) of maintenance/repairs done in spring or summer of 1988 and sold it to a longtime friend who was in need of a bike and was poor at the time after his old CB900 gave out, for $400.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Wow! I remember when the late 1970s and early 1980s bikes weren't worth much. There were so many used bikes available. Even so, your friend got a good deal on that one. Cheers!

[@propdoctor21564]

Really enjoy your tests and while all these bikes are cool that Red Suzuki really stands out and would be my pick of the bunch.👍👍 For the last couple years I've been Riding a black 1992 Honda Nighthawk 750 with only 10,000 mi on it and out of the many cycles I have owned over the last 40 years it is one of my favorites

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Nice! I enjoyed testing a black Nighthawk 750 recently. It's a fun classic UJM. I just picked up another super-cool 1980's big-bore bike that I will be featuring on the channel. Stay tuned for more fun content. Cheers!

[@andrewnewman6510]

Wow, I’m surprised by the results. I was expecting the Yamaha or the Gs1100e to be on top. Awesome review

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Andrew!

[@jonbowden5207]

Me too. I've owned both 1100G and 1100E... my memory is the 1100E had a LOT more motor (and less weight) than the 1100G

[@andrewnewman6510]

@@jonbowden5207 I have an 1100e now. Slowly getting to the point of where Jon’s 1100 is. He has a nice piece there.

[@doug3512]

​@jonbowden5207 the E is also geared higher for top end speed, thus is was lagging in top gear at 40mph. The biggest difference in the engine from the E to the GK was the E has a 16 valve head. It breathes better at higher rpm, but doesn't breathe as much when lagging. Had he done the roll on tests in nust one lower gear, the GK would probably been the slowest bike.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@doug3512 Just a few clarifications: First, the E is geared lower than the G, theoretically giving it the advantage. In fact, the GS1100G has the tallest gearing of all the bikes in the test. Second, my GS1100G runs really strong throughout the rev range. Downshifting a gear might produce even more drastic results since it wouldn't be lugging as much at the start of the test. Third, the weight difference is not as drastic as a modern sport bike vs a modern touring bike. The E and G have similar frames, suspensions, etc. Only the shaft-drive unit, metal seat pan on the G, and possibly larger gas tank of the G would make the G heavier. Add in the weight savings with the Gs Delkevic exhaust, and it's getting pretty close. Finally, I have no need to push one of these bikes over another. As I fine-tune the E, it may get quicker. I was surprised by the results as well.

[@gregrussell570]

I'm not surprised. I used to own a GS1100G back in the day

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@stevemchale6363]

I WAS THERE AND IM STILL ACTIVE WITH BIKES. I LOVE IT.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@chrismoody1342]

My 75 Z1b sees redline at least in one gear, 2nd or 3rd preferably, every pull. Been riding that way from the very beginnings. It not like the thing is going to fly apart. I’ve even rev’d past 10500. Motor is still all original other than valve shims.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

They are robust, as you point out. I have no problem running newer bikes to their redline. They are protected by rev limiters. If I miss a shift for any reason on a vintage bike and over-rev it, it could be an expensive shop bill. Plus, I like running them, but there's not much benefit to pegging them into the red. They're not peaky motors. They make great power throughout the rev range. Cheers!

[@yomommaahotoo264]

Fantastic! But I wanna see which is fastest from 80 to 120 mph...

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Well... I'll need to hire a stunt rider. The classic bikes are fun up to 100 or so but get hairy above that speed. Plus, most of these speedometers only go to 85!

[@esv5182]

Properly maintained, those bikes should reach their peak power in the 50k-60k mile range. When my 1980 XS Eleven-Special had around 50k miles on it, I raced a 1986 Ninja 600R through the quarter mile. He couldn't catch me. At 80k miles, the cam chain was stretched to the limit.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on! With my first GS1100G (66k miles) I ran about even with my friends then new VFR750 in a straight line.

[@esv5182]

I watched your video of your 1989 ZX-10. I had one just like that too. I let a friend ride it one day and i was riding the Yamaha and we did a 60mph roll on. Course you know the ZX-10 had a 6 speed but it didn't just pull away from me. It was more like a slow creeping away from me. Lol The XS11 is a torque monster. I was told a jet kit and a pipe would cure the ZX-10's flat spot but I ended up selling it. I think I remember you saying that didn't cure it either. Oh well, it was a fun, fast bike and still looks sharp to this day.

[@esv5182]

Are all those bikes yours? Add a gen 1 Vmax to the stable. With mine, I learned very quickly there are some things you don't do on that bike unless you have a death wish. I've passed a line of cars and got home laughing so hard I was crying😂 and a couple of times thanking God I was still alive.🙏

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@esv5182 I miss my ZX-10! If I can find a really nice one, I will be tempted to pick it up. I rode my XS1100 yesterday for about 50 miles. What a treat! Definitely not a slouch.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@esv5182 I've ridden a V-Max on several occasions. It has a monster motor that dominates every other aspect of the bike (chassis, suspension, brakes). The tach is tiny and poorly placed, and the seat is a torture rack. But, one memorable day, I ran it to the top of a mountain road, passing several sport bikes in the process. Uphill worked in the V-Maxs favor. I rode it gently back down the mountain, lamenting the weight, poor brakes, and wooden front-end feel. Good times!

[@jasonfisher4860]

Jon, I'll tell you what... I think you're a big kid. *JUST LIKE ME!!! I've asked myself this question, I have the '80 XS SPECIAL too. Keep them coming.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Guilty as charged 🙂

[@ezelk1337]

I have the same exact same Suzuki 1100E. I wondered if adding the header to the 1100E and the mini fairing.would make it faster. It did even though the 1100Gwith the shaft drive should be heavier. Interesting.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Typically, adding a 4-into-1 pipe on a bike causes a loss of low and mid-range power, but increases power up top. I have had several of the shaft-drive GS1100s and they're really strong in the low to mid-range with the 2-valve/cyl head. It's still surprising though!

[@ezelk1337]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I guess that that makes sense. The 1100G was tuned for mid range power and the 1100E is tuned for more top end power. This isn't a full on drag race. If so the 1100E may win.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@ezelk1337 I think the GS1100E would win a full on drag race since almost the entire race would be run above 6k rpm.

[@jonbowden5207]

@@ezelk1337 in a race, the 1100E would dominate - my personal memories having had both

[@timkis64]

i expected the yamaha to take off quick, but fall victom to the suzuki's by the end of the pull.i guess it depends on the final drive ratio's.a half a point (.5) can make a noticable difference in a timed event.nice comparison jon, thanks bud.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks! I have been continuing to ride, tune, and test the bikes since this video. So, the results aren't set in stone. I have also found a new venue that is more level and longer. More comparison compilations are on the way!

[@jimclarke1108]

Another great comparison, the Honda 900 , a bit small to compare🤔my oppinion

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

The Hondas shaft-drive system that switches sides on its way to the rear wheel really soaks up the power. I have also changed the venue since making this video the slight incline was causing overly long times. Cheers!

[@bringbacknames]

That is surprising. I thought the 83 GS100 would easily take it. Were you in high or low range on the CB900C? I know it's a top gear test, but I would never be in high range and 5th gear at 40 mph. It just lugs the bike too hard. Mine is an '82, though, and I think it's geared higher than the '80.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I ran the test for the CB900 C in high and low range with almost identical results. It just doesn't have the midrange of the other bikes. You're correct on gearing, I had an '82 CB900 C previously that was also geared taller than the '80. The craziest part is that the winner of the test also has the tallest gearing and is revving lowest at the start of the test!

[@robertyoung7027]

Please review the Kawasaki Kz1300 and Honda cbx 6-cyl if you have one..

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Well, I've owned the KZ1300 and ridden my father's KZ1300 in my younger days. I've yet to ride the CBX. I will put together a review of the KZ 1300 at least. Cheers!

[@rinsed-moto3442]

Isn't this more a matter of which one's top gear is lower? I don't mind if it has a long 6th gear for freeway cruising... Anyhow - interesting content!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

No, surprisingly. In fact, the winning bike has the tallest gearing.

[@64faffi]

I know I have a poor ability to sound critical, while in my head I imagine I am being helpful 😄 So please bear with me. It is clear to me that you do your best to keep the results as comparable as possible, but there are still several potential sources of error in these tests. First the weather (temp, wind, moisture, pressure) can have a significant impact, although doing the tests back to back will usually eliminate the majority of these factors. Your riding garment, if changed, will also to a lesser degree be able to affect the results. The biggest error, though, is related to the speedometer readings. Not only is it very difficult to read the thick needles within one mph, but some speedos lag more than others. Then we have speedo errors, which can vary a lot, although the 85mph speedos were typically more accurate than the full scale speedos. What I would like to see was a side by side comparison where you have a second rider along. Then you would have a constant to measure against for the future, for instance the GS1100GK, where you could measure the difference rather than the time. If the two of you were of similar size, that would make things simpler for you, of course, otherwise you may have to do every comparison twice. How much does rider weight impact roll-on performance? Back when, Cycle Guide compare the GPz1100 to the GSX1100 and CB900F. The Honda was much slower, naturally, but there was also a noteable difference between the two 1100s. However, one rider was 30 lbs heavier than the other, and the lightest rider always won the roll-on tests between the 1100s, regardless of what bike he was on. Another option would be to use an advanced GPS to test top gear acceleration on you own, which should be accurate every time as you can program it to store the time it takes. Sorry for (one more) being so longwinded, but I am a nerd that have always loved these things 🤓

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I'm also a nerdy engineer. I agree that speedometer error/lag and weather will impact things and that the most accurate results would be achieved with highly calibrated electronic measuring equipment (which I don't have). As I continue to do more comparisons, I will repeat the test and post the best recorded time for each bike. I record the runs in high definition (more so than KZbin allows me to upload). I then slow the clips to the instant the needle starts to move off 40 until it hits 80, so it's more accurate than me timing things with a stopwatch. My gear is also consistent. Adding a second rider adds so many more variables to the equation (weight, height, gear, shoulder width, reaction time, camera angle, etc). While it would make for a fun video, it is not practical from a logistics standpoint either at this time.

[@64faffi]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Thank you for taking the time to reply and explain, much appreciated.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@64faffi You're welcome!

[@ridingwithrusso7790]

Another great video!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks!

[@jasonfisher4860]

Jon, Any recommendations where to find MSTR CYLINDER ASSEMBLY 1J3-25850-23-00 *for my XS11 handle bar change like yours...?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Mike's XS parts may have something. Otherwise, I would just do an internet search.

[@oi32df]

Put the GS850 fairing on the GS1100e and the latter will easily lower his time by 0.2 seconds. It would be interesting to measure the current (2010 & up) CB1100 which is not very focused on power against these retro bike.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@oi32df I rejetted the GS1100E, and it now runs a 7.9 second 40-80 mph time. I don't think the newer CB1100 would be as quick. However, I would love the chance to test and review one. Cheers!

[@oi32df]

​@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 A bike that would be interesting to evaluate its roll-on top gear torque would be the gsx1400 = the ultimate big block UJM 4 cylinder which unfortunately was never available in NA

[@jefflauracook]

Jon thanks for videos,just bought a82 gs 1100e resto mod love it !😊

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Awesome Jeff! They are such cool bikes.

[@59jaguar]

Jon iam partial to the vintage Suzukis. We’re any of those Suzukis shaft drive? What is your favorite size bike? Thanks

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I love the vintage Suzukis as well. The black GS1100G is a shaft-drive bike. I'm a tall guy, so the big bikes (900cc and up) fit me best. Cheers!

[@59jaguar]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 what are best range of years for the shaft drive bikes. I was thinking about a 850-1100 size

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@59jaguar I would go with a 1982 or newer. Cheers!

[@gtemnykh]

Not gonna lie I was rooting for the XS1100. Honestly the 1100E/1100G/XS1100 are so close it's splitting hairs. Would a stock exhaust 1100G be just a tad slower? Would a first year (78 XS1100E) with its hotter cams and more aggressive ignition curve fair better? Perhaps. It's definitely evident that the 900 Honda just doesn't have the big bore low end torque of the others!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

In further testing, I've already had improved results from one bike that upsets these results. Oddly, no changes were made to that bike between tests other than riding it more. Stay tuned for more roll-on drama! It will be interesting to see how these tests continue to pan out. A stock exhaust G might be quicker or it might be slower. It was quick even with the stock exhaust.

[@gtemnykh]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 A definite factor in all this is gearing: per CW's 1982 test of a 1100GK, they sat at 4089rpm @60mph, the chain drive 1100Es were 3811rpm@60mph. The touring bikes were geared down presumably to deal with heavy fairings and passengers. So on the roll on, there's definitely a gearing advantage in play. The XS1100 is geared down even lower, a supposed 3747rpm@60mph per CW's 1978 test of an 1100E (not sure how gearing may or may not have changed for a '80 Special with a 16" rear wheel)

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@gtemnykh That's interesting. After checking video footage here: My G (converted back to G standard from a GK tourer) is geared tallest of all the bikes tested. The G/GK shows around 3500 at 60. The E revs an indicated 4000 at 60. The E revs higher than the G at any given speed in top gear. The XS1100 Special is geared lower than either. It shows 4000 at 55.

[@gtemnykh]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 presumably the conversion swapped the GK 16” rear wheel for a G 17? Was there a final drive swap done as well? I can’t find period specs for a 1100G off-hand and I’ve forgotten what my 82 sat at in 5th gear at 60mph at this point

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@gtemnykh Still running the GK 16" wheel. No driveline swap. My GS1100L seems to be geared the same.

[@29madmangaud29]

I had thought that the big red suzi was gonna win. Instead, the Suzi G won! That's the bike I will want to buy, same as my 81 XS11, minus the fairing and bags!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Functionally, the GS1100G gets my vote for the best of the air-cooled standards of the time. The other bikes of the time are fantastic, but none score so highly across so many criteria. Best of all, it's a sleeper and way undervalued.

[@1conu593]

I think it’s because it’s an US version, you have to realize back then USA was one of the country with the most amount of regulations for lowering gas emissions! So the GSX is probably not jetted properly, check the carb specs from USA and the one from Europe you’ll probably find difference!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@1conu593 I'll have to check into that!

[@craigg4246]

I have a 1980 GS1000G I am currently putting a big bore, (1085cc) high compression kit in. Should be fun when it's all back together....

[@jasonrose6562]

I knew the G would take it.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@sachsgs2509]

Interesting that the Kawa almost a full sec off the pace of the others I wonder if the gearing have something to do with it. Other then that the times are pretty close. Now I've had a 78 KZ1000 and a 83 CB1100F and in real life riding the KZ was very close to the CB roll on 40-80.... However my 85 GPZ1100 was noticeably faster on the roll on from these bikes...

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I have a 1978 KZ1000 that I'm finishing up, so I plan to feature that soon. I have a few bikes that I need to synch the carbs on (the CSR1000 is one). Once completed, I will retest. Finally, the CSR1000 lost out to the 1100s, which you would expect. The CB1100F was slower than the GPZ1100 and GS1100E in period tests.

[@lazh1391]

Lack of low end caused by open exhaust

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@lazh1391 The exhaust and current tune could impact it. Also, a lack of displacement doesn't help.

[@RollingRigTraction]

All cool machines.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on, I agree!

[@1conu593]

Let's lauch a crowfunding for you to buy a motorcycle BENCH and to bench all the old bikes you put your hands on !!!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

By bench, do you mean a dyno? If so, yes please!

[@1conu593]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 yes dyno ! Personally I’m working on my GS I bought at 25 000 miles, good condition at first look but everytime I did something, i’ve the impression to drive a new bike (carb cleaning, valve adjustment, timing adjustment, rebuild forks…) everytime I wish I had a bench to be able to track the improvements…

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@1conu593 It would be helpful!

[@pasivaan9563]

Kawazaki Gpz 1100 ?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I will add the GPZ1100 once I complete it.

[@urgonnaluvit]

gpz1100 ?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@urgonnaluvit I have a nice GPZ1100, but it wasn't ready for the test. I posted a revised video with more bikes as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=fSSVeyaHI_OWBwi_

[@John-gv8uw]

I have a 1980 yamaha xs eleven nothing like it

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on, John. I did another test at a more level venue, and the XS1100 did even better. It tied the GS1100G. Both great bikes. Cheers!

[@journeyquest1]

Before watching the vid, my guess is the red Suzuki.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Close...

[@1conu593]

GS1100EZ Main jet #110 Needle jet X-1 GS1100 1981 Main jet #115 Needle jet X-3 Just for fun try to invert the carbs and see the results 😂

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@1conu593]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Would be a cool video haha

[@kiddx5753]

👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on!

[@ChadLasik-so8gw]

Everybody that I ask if they viewed your vids before have something in common. Everybody says meh he is biased against Honda.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Interesting. My Blackbird videos are my most popular, followed by my VFR videos. I have recently featured lots of Honda's on the channel. And I chose to ride a Honda on a 370 mile trip I did this weekend & I loved every minute of it. The CB900C didn't do well in the acceleration test - it wasn't bias that caused it to perform as it did. Smaller displacement and a very complicated driveline meant that a CB750C was quicker than the CB900C - these are facts, not bias. I try to give every bike a fair, unbiased review. This can sometimes upset diehard fans of any particular brand or bike. Cheers!

[@rdaystrom4540]

Yamaha 1100 were awful bikes. Defective air box design caused premature engine wear. Early 1100s were quick. Subsequent models were detuned. Yamaha does that a lot.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Well, there are lots of loyal XS1100 owners who put lots of miles on their XS1100s. In subsequent testing, this XS1100 was actually quicker than it was this test and even beat Suzuki's GS1100E. So, it's still a quick bike with tons of streetable power. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmikea2Zd9aIp68si=wv8-jOPEr4jeX4nF

[@rdaystrom4540]

@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 My observations of multiple xs1100 examples showed prematurely worn out engines resulting from the leaky air box seal that let un-filtered dirty air into the engine resulting in worn out piston rings, cam chain, and primary drive chain to the transmission. Admittedly they were bikes that lived in dusty conditions.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@rdaystrom4540 That makes sense. I have noticed leaky airboxes on many bikes (regardless of brand) due to dried out boots, cracked boots, and improper installation by the previous owner. It's a good reminder to check the airboxes periodically to avoid undue engine wear. Cheers!

[@robertrose6309]

A 79 Yamaha XS1100 SPECIAL is faster than a 1980 XS1100 SPECIAL!! SO YOUR COMPARISON IS WRONG!!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I listed the bikes I was testing and tested them. I'm not sure. The 1980 XS1100 Special did fine and it did even better in a later test, equaling the 1982 GS1100G at 8.2 seconds 40-80. I will gladly test a 1979 XS1100 if someone is willing to provide a good-running example. Cheers! P.S. - In the second test, the 1986 FJ1200 cleaned house with a 6.3 second 40-80 time - no other classic bike I've tested comes close.