The Suzuki Bandit 600 (GSF600) was introduced in 1995 and remained in production until 2005. It was one of the most popular budget middleweight roadsters of its time, and with good reason.
The Bandit 600 was equipped with an aging but acceptable supersport engine, which was reliable, easy to maintain, and provided enough power to satisfy most owners.
The Bandit 600 was designed to be an affordable and enjoyable do it all first naked bike for beginners. It was known for its big bike presence and excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for anyone looking for their first middleweight on a budget.
Although it was considered a good bike, it was not without its flaws. The styling was dated, the handling was average, and it was prone to corrosion, which should be a concern for anyone looking for a decent used Bandit living in here in Britain.
Suzuki Bandit 600 Overview
The bike was designed to be a versatile, all rounder and it pretty much nailed the mandate. It was well-received by bikers and critics alike, thanks to its combination of performance, comfort, and most of all, its affordability.
History
It was introduced in 1996 as a replacement for the GSX600F Katana. It was powered by an air-cooled, inline-four engine that produced 77 horsepower and 39 lb-ft of torque.
In 2000, Suzuki updated the Bandit 600 with a liquid-cooled engine that produced 78 horsepower and 44 lb-ft of torque. The Bandit 600 was discontinued in 2005 when it was replaced by the Suzuki Bandit 650.
Design
The Suzuki Bandit 600 had a simple, yet attractive design that emphasized its naked bike styling. The bike had a tubular steel frame, a single-sided swingarm, and a conventional telescopic fork.
The instrument cluster was located in the center of the handlebars and included a speedometer, tachometer, and various warning lights. From 2002 it came with a fuel gauge as standard – luxury!
The bike was available in both naked (GSF600) and half-faired versions GSF600S).
Performance
The Bandit 600 was known for its responsive performance. The bike’s inline-four engine provided decent acceleration and a top speed of 120mph, making it suitable for both city and highway riding.
Fork and spring was tuned for comfort, making it an ideal bike for long-distance touring. The bike’s brakes were also well-regarded, providing plenty of stopping power when needed.
Overall, the Bandit was a reliable bike that was well-suited for a variety of riding styles. Its combination of decent performance, comfort, and affordability made it a popular choice among riders looking for a do-it-all or their first big bike.
Engine and Transmission
The Bandit 600 is powered by a retuned GSX600 engine, a 599cc, four-stroke, DOHC, in-line four engine that delivers a maximum power of 77 hp at 10,500 rpm and a peak torque of 40.2 lb-ft at 9,500 rpm. The engine has a compression ratio of 11.3:1 and is equipped with a Keihin CVR32 carburetor for fuel delivery.
The Bandit 600’s engine is known for its smooth power delivery and good mid-range torque, making it a great all-around performer. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that provides precise gear changes. The transmission is equipped with a drive chain that transfers power from the engine to the rear wheel.
Engine
The Bandit engine is a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, in-line four that is known for its reliability and durability. The engine features a 16-valve cylinder head and a lightweight aluminum alloy piston. The engine is also equipped with a gear-driven counterbalancer that reduces vibration and enhances rider comfort.
Transmission
The transmission is equipped with a wet multi-plate clutch that delivers smooth and progressive engagement. The clutch is also equipped with a slipper mechanism that reduces back wheel hop during aggressive downshifting.
Torque
The Bandit 600’s engine delivers 77 hp at 10,500 rpm and a peak torque of 40.2 lb-ft at 9,500 rpm. The engine’s power delivery is linear, with good mid-range torque that makes it a great all-around performer. It has a six-speed transmission and a drive chain.
Overall, the engine and transmission are a great combination that delivers reliable performance with no shocks. The engine’s smooth delivery and good mid-range torque make it a great all-around performer, while the transmission provides smooth and precise gear changes.
Specifications
The Suzuki Bandit 600 was introduced in 1995 and quickly became a popular choice for riders looking for an affordable, middleweight motorcycle. Here are some of the key specifications for the Bandit 600:
Engine: 599cc, four-stroke, air/oil-cooled, inline-four engine
Power: 77 hp at 10,500 rpm
Torque: 40.2 lb-ft at 9,500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Suspension: Telescopic, oil-damped front forks and a link-type rear with adjustable preload
Brakes: Dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake
Fuel capacity: 20 liters (5.3 gallons)
Weight: 208 kg (458 lbs)
The Bandit 600’s engine was based on the GSX-F 600 and featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine was tuned for mid-range, which made it a great choice for city riding and commuting. The transmission was a six-speed manual, and the clutch was cable-operated.
The suspension on the Bandit 600 was basic but effective. The front forks were telescopic and oil-damped, while the rear suspension was a link-type design with adjustable preload. The brakes were also basic but effective, with dual front discs and a single rear disc providing plenty of stopping power.
One of the Bandit 600’s strengths was its fuel economy. With a 20-liter fuel tank, the Bandit 600 had a range of around 200 miles, and it was capable of achieving up to 55 mpg when ridden gently. The bike was also relatively easy to maintain, with low insurance premiums and a good selection of aftermarket parts available.
Chassis and Suspension
Chassis
The Suzuki Bandit 600 has a steel-tube frame that offers a good balance between increased rigidity and flexibility. The chassis is well-built and reliable, and it handles well in corners despite its weight.
Suspension
Basic but effective. The front consists of 41mm telescopic forks, while the rear shock has adjustable preload. It is capable of handling most road conditions, but it can be a bit harsh on rough roads. Upgrades such as progressive springs and fork braces can improve the bike’s handling.
Brakes
The 600’s braking system is adequate for most. The front consist of dual 290mm discs with twin-piston calipers, while the rear brake is a single 240mm disc with a single-piston caliper.
Handling
The Bandit 600 handles well in most situations. The bike is stable at high speeds, and it corners well. The bike’s handling is predictable and forgiving, making it a good choice for novice riders. However, some riders may find the bike’s handling to be a bit sluggish compared to more modern bikes.
Suspension Linkages
The Bandit 600’s linkages are well-designed and reliable. The linkages are designed to provide a progressive rate of compression, which helps to prevent bottoming out. The linkages are also adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune it to your liking.
Head Bearings
The Bandit 600’s head bearings are well-built and reliable. The bearings are designed to provide smoother steering and good feedback. However, if it has not been done already you may prefer to upgrade the bearings to reduce play in the steering.
Nissin and Tokico
The Bandit 600’s braking system uses Nissin and Tokico components, which are well-regarded in the industry. Nissin and Tokico are known for producing high-quality brake components that provide good stopping power and are easy to modulate and the Bandit 600’s brakes are no exception.
Dimensions and Weight
Seat Height
The Suzuki Bandit 600 has a seat height of 790 mm (31.1 inches) at the lowest setting.
Width
The width of the Bandit 600 is approximately 770 mm (30.3 inches) without mirrors. With mirrors, the width increases to approximately 920 mm (36.2 inches).
Length
The length of the Suzuki Bandit 600 is approximately 2,130 mm (83.9 inches) from the tip of the front tire to the end of the rear fender.
Wheelbase
The wheelbase of the Suzuki Bandit 600 is approximately 1,440 mm (56.7 inches). This is the distance between the center of the front and rear wheels.
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance of the Suzuki Bandit 600 is approximately 140 mm (5.5 inches). This is the distance between the ground and the lowest point of the motorcycle, which is typically the exhaust pipe.
Overall, the Suzuki Bandit 600 is a compact and nimble motorcycle with a relatively low seat height and decent ground clearance.
Ride Quality and Comfort
Ride Quality
The Suzuki Bandit 600 offers a comfortable ride with its upright seating position, which allows for a good view of the road ahead. The suspension is adjustable, and it can be tweaked to suit your preferences although any Bandit for sale today that’s still equipped with stock springs would benefit from at least an overhaul. At 439lbs the bike is on the heavy side but handling is ok and predictable, making it easy to maneuver through corners.
Comfort
The Bandit’s seat is comfortable for both the rider and passenger, and the footpegs are positioned in a way that reduces fatigue on longer rides. The bike’s handlebars are also adjustable, allowing owners to find a comfortable riding position. The bike’s fairing and windscreen provide some wind protection, which helps to reduce fatigue on longer rides.
Wind Protection
If you go for the Bandit 600S (shown above) it came with a windscreen to provide some wind protection, which is helpful on longer rides. However, the windscreen is not adjustable, so owners may need to experiment with different positions to find the best one for their height and riding position. The bike’s fairing also helps to deflect wind away from the rider’s legs, which can be helpful in cooler weather.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability Rating
The Suzuki Bandit has a reputation for being a reliable motorcycle. According to owners ratings at MCN, the 1996 Suzuki GSF 600 S had a reliability rating of 77.7 out of 100.0. However, it is worth noting that the bike is now over 20 years old, so finding a well-maintained example is crucial for ensuring its reliability.
Rust
One issue that many owners reported in the UK was rust. The bike’s steel frame and exhaust system are particularly susceptible to corrosion. Regular cleaning and plenty of ACF-50 is your best friend here.
Annual Servicing Cost
On its release it was generally considered to be one of the most affordable bikes to maintain in its class. Today, annual servicing costs will depend on factors such as the age of the bike and the type of maintenance required.
However, owners can expect to pay around $300 to $500 per year for routine maintenance, such as oil changes and brake pad replacements.
In summary, it is a reliable machine with a good reputation among bikers. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent issues such as rust from becoming major problems. While annual servicing costs are relatively low, finding a well-maintained example is crucial for ensuring the bike’s reliability.
Aftermarket Parts and Accessories
When it comes to upgrading or replacing parts, there are a variety of aftermarket options available. Here are some popular categories of aftermarket parts and accessories.
Budget
For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options available. Some popular budget-friendly upgrades include handlebar grips, mirrors, and improved brake pads. These upgrades can improve the look and feel of the bike without breaking the bank.
Value
For those looking for a bit more value, there are a variety of upgrades available. These include items such as aftermarket exhausts and upgraded carburetors. These upgrades can provide a noticeable improvement in performance without breaking the bank.
Touring
For those who like to take their motorcycles long distances, there are a variety of specific upgrades available. These include items such as luggage racks, saddlebags, and windshields. These upgrades can make long rides more comfortable and convenient.
Exhaust
Upgrading the cans on the Suzuki can provide a noticeable improvement in performance and sound. Popular aftermarket options include slip-on mufflers and full systems. When selecting an exhaust, it’s important to consider factors such as noise level and emissions compliance said no one, ever.
Carburetor
Upgrading the carburetor on the Suzuki Bandit 600 can provide improved performance and throttle response. Popular aftermarket carburetor options include the Mikuni BST40 and the Keihin FCR.
Suspension Upgrade
The fastest way to improve ride quality is to overhaul the forks and replace the rear shock.
Summing Up
The Bandit was a budget middleweight roadster that has stood the test of time and paved the way for a great Suzuki naked bike line up.
With its simple recipe of an aging but acceptable supersport engine and a comfortable upright rider position, it spawned a whole class of motorcycles.
The Bandit handles ok for its age and today is a great bike for anyone looking for a daily commute on a tight budget, as long as it’s been looked after.
The bikes dated styling, average handling, and tendency to corrode are downsides that should obviously be taken into account. However, the bike’s big presence for very little money and enjoyable down-to-earth rider experience make it a sensible choice for many, including novices.
The Bandit 600S, with its half-fairing, is also a good option for those who want a bit of wind protection.