Alright, so I got this ’97 Suzuki Bandit, and let me tell you, it’s been a journey. When I first got my hands on it, I knew I was in for a project. The Bandit, especially the older models, has this reputation for being a bit of a “hooligan bike,” but I was drawn to its raw, unrefined nature.

I started by assessing what I was working with. This bike had some years on it, so naturally, there were a few things that needed attention. I checked out the engine, a 1157cc beast, and made sure everything was in running order. This thing is known for its power, about 97 horsepower they say, and a top speed of around 140 mph – not that I’ve tested that out, of course.
- Engine: Gave it a good once-over, checking for any obvious issues.
- Fluids: Changed the oil, checked the coolant, the usual stuff.
- Brakes: Made sure the brake pads had enough life in them, and the brake fluid was topped up.
- Tires: Inspected the tires for wear and tear, and checked the pressure.
Next, I moved on to giving it a bit of a facelift. I mean, the Bandit has this classic look, but I wanted to give it a bit of my own personal touch. I started with some simple cosmetic changes. Nothing too drastic, just enough to make it feel like mine.
I’ve heard that Suzuki dropped the GSF650S Bandit from their lineup to streamline things. Makes sense, I guess. They’ve got the GSX650F, which is kind of similar. But for me, the older Bandit models have a certain charm that the newer bikes just don’t have.
Now, about the price, the market value varies a lot. When it was new, the Suzuki GSF1200 had a list price starting at $7,099. You can find information online about the current values, I checked some websites. I saw some used 1997 Suzuki Bandit models for sale. Prices can vary depending on condition and location, it seems. But a used ’97 Bandit? You’re going to have to do some digging.
I kept tinkering with it, doing little things here and there. It’s not about turning it into a show bike or anything. It’s about the process, the connection you build with a machine when you’re the one putting in the work. Every little tweak, every adjustment, it all adds up to something that’s more than just a motorcycle. It’s a part of me now, in a way.

So yeah, that’s my story with the ’97 Suzuki Bandit. It’s not just a bike; it’s a project, a hobby, and a passion all rolled into one. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.