Tamiya 1:12 Suzuki GSX1100S

The Tamiya 1:12 Suzuki GSX1100S is a plastic scale model kit of the iconic Suzuki GSX1100S “Katana”, a legendary Japanese sport motorcycle known for its distinctive styling and 1980s performance heritage.

About the motorcycle

The real Suzuki GSX1100S Katana was introduced in the early 1980s as a high-performance sport bike that stood out for its radical design.

Key characteristics of the real bike:

• 1100cc inline-four engine

• air-cooled, high-performance sport tuning

• famous “Katana” styling by Target Design (Hans Muth)

• sharp, futuristic bodywork inspired by Japanese swords

• strong acceleration and touring-sport capability

• became an iconic 1980s superbike design

It is widely regarded as one of the most visually distinctive motorcycles ever made.

About the model kit

The Tamiya 1:12 GSX1100S Katana is part of Tamiya’s classic motorcycle series, known for accuracy and excellent fit.

Typical features include:

• 1:12 scale plastic motorcycle kit

• detailed inline-four engine reproduction

• accurately shaped Katana-style fairing and bodywork

• realistic frame, suspension, and swingarm

• rubber-style tyres

• detailed chrome and metal-effect parts (kit dependent)

• decal sheet for Suzuki branding and markings

The kit emphasizes the bike’s unique styling and mechanical detail.

Key features

✔ 1:12 scale classic Japanese superbike
✔ Suzuki GSX1100S Katana
✔ Highly distinctive 1980s design
✔ Detailed engine and chassis components
✔ Accurate bodywork and fairings
✔ Premium Tamiya engineering quality

Typical build use

This kit is ideal for:

• classic motorcycle collections

• 1980s Japanese bike enthusiasts

• Suzuki fans and Katana collectors

• detailed mechanical display builds

• 1:12 motorcycle modelling hobbyists

Skill level

Intermediate

Suitable for:

• modellers with some experience in multi-part kits

• hobbyists interested in vintage motorcycles

• builders focused on clean painting and decals

Ideal for

• Suzuki enthusiasts

• classic superbike collectors

• Tamiya motorcycle kit fans

• 1980s Japanese motorcycle lovers

• 1:12 scale bike model builders

Summary

The Tamiya 1:12 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana is a highly detailed model of one of the most iconic motorcycles of the 1980s, capturing both its radical styling and classic inline-four engineering in a precise and display-focused kit.