2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit Specs & Review

A big-bore naked that blends old-school charm with everyday usability, the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit is the last of the oil-cooled Bandit 1200 line. If you’re comparing torque-rich standards for commuting and weekend blasts, the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit specs still hold plenty of appeal.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Air/oil-cooled inline‑4 DOHC, 16 valves (SACS)
• Displacement: 1157 cc
• Power: 98 hp @ 8,500 rpm
• Torque: 91.7 Nm (67.6 lb‑ft) @ 6,500 rpm
• Transmission/Final Drive: 5‑speed, chain (45/15, 3.000)
• Weight: 239 kg wet; 212 kg dry
• Seat height: 785–805 mm (adjustable)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Bandit is a 1157 cc air/oil‑cooled inline‑four with DOHC and 16 valves, fed by 4x Mikuni BSR36 carburetors. Peak figures of 98 hp at 8,500 rpm and 91.7 Nm (67.6 lb‑ft) at 6,500 rpm tell the story: this engine is tuned for stout midrange with enough top‑end to keep things lively. The 79.0 mm x 59.0 mm bore and stroke, combined with a 9.5:1 compression ratio, give a flexible, tractable character that works as well in city traffic as it does charging down the highway.

A 5‑speed constant‑mesh gearbox is paired with a chain final drive using 45/15 (3.000) gearing, offering relaxed cruising and responsive roll‑on. Digital/transistorized ignition keeps starting and fueling manners predictable for a carbureted bike. Emissions are rated Euro 2 / U.S. Tier 1 for 2006. If you’re cross‑shopping liter‑plus standards, the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit specs show a powertrain focused on usable torque without the peaky personality of high‑strung superbikes.

Handling, Comfort & Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit Seat Height

The chassis formula is confidence‑first. A 43 mm telescopic front fork (coil spring, oil damped) with spring preload adjustment and a link‑type monoshock offering 7‑way preload and 4‑way rebound give you enough tuning range for commuting, pillion loads, or sporty weekend rides. With a 1,480 mm wheelbase and 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear tubeless tires, stability is a clear strength, especially on faster sweepers.

Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit seat height adjustability—785–805 mm—adds real‑world versatility. Shorter riders can keep it at 785 mm for easier flat‑footing at lights, while taller riders can lift it to 805 mm for roomier ergonomics. The Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit weight is listed at 239 kg wet (212 kg dry). At low speeds, that mass means smooth clutch control and balance are rewarded, but once moving, the planted feel inspires confidence. Ground clearance is 130 mm, suitable for real‑world roads rather than extreme lean angles.

Equipment & Features

Braking is handled by dual 310 mm front discs with 4‑piston calipers and a 240 mm rear disc with a 1‑piston caliper—strong, predictable hardware for a naked standard of this era. The fuel system uses 4x Mikuni BSR36 carburetors, while ignition is digital/transistorized. A 20.0 L (5.3 US gal) fuel capacity aids long‑distance practicality without constant fuel stops.

Tire fitment is modern‑friendly: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) up front and 180/55ZR17M/C (73W) out back, both tubeless. Notably, 2006 marks the final oil‑cooled GSF1200 model year, and Japan received an “Oil‑cooled Final Edition” with ABS; the line transitioned to the liquid‑cooled GSF1250 afterward.

Who Is the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit For?

This is a great pick for riders who want a torquey, characterful inline‑four without chasing the razor‑sharp edge of supersport ergonomics. As a daily, it’s comfortable and flexible; as a weekend machine, the engine’s midrange and stable chassis deliver rewarding pace. Newer riders may find the 1157 cc displacement and 239 kg wet weight a bit much for a very first bike, but experienced riders—or confident returnees—will appreciate its approachable nature.

If your shortlist includes do‑it‑all naked machines with big‑bore shove, a carbureted personality, and a comfortable, adjustable perch, the Bandit 1200’s balance of usability and punch makes sense. This 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit review highlights a bike that thrives on everyday riding yet still feels special when the road opens up.

Torquepedia Verdict

Strengths: a robust, flexible engine; stable and predictable handling; adjustable ergonomics; and practical touches like a 20.0 L tank. The braking package is well‑matched to the chassis, and the suspension offers meaningful adjustment for different loads and preferences. In a world of electronics‑heavy machines, its straightforward mechanicals are part of the charm.

Trade‑offs revolve around mass and age: the Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit weight demands some muscle at parking‑lot speeds, and carburetors require periodic attention. But judged by the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit specs and real‑world feel, it remains a compelling, wallet‑friendly heavyweight standard that’s equally at home commuting or carving backroads.

FAQ

• Is the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit good for beginners? It’s manageable but not ideal as a first motorcycle due to its 1157 cc engine, strong torque delivery, and 239 kg wet weight. It suits riders with some experience.

• What is the seat height of the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit? The Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit seat height is adjustable from 785–805 mm.

• How heavy is the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit? Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit weight is 239 kg wet and 212 kg dry.

• How much power does the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit make? It produces 98 hp at 8,500 rpm and 91.7 Nm (67.6 lb‑ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm.

• Does the 2006 Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit have ABS? For 2006, Japan received an “Oil‑cooled Final Edition” with ABS. Outside that, ABS is not specified for this model year.