I am a bit of a Bandit expert. My 1200W model now has 175,000 miles on it, (yes I have rebuilt the motor myself). It's been around the US multiple times and does Trackdays. MODS- Ivan needles, stock airbox, STOCK jet sizes. Get a quality exhaust can (mine is Yosh). THROW THE SHOCK AWAY, it is pure crap. I use a Hyperpro, with Racetech springs and valve kit in front: INCREDIBLE IMPROVEMENT! Mine has a JE pistons 1216cc piston kit and light headwork; it makes an honest 120 hp on the dyno with EIGHTY TWO pounds of torque. If you add one tooth to the front sprocket it will improve the highway ride and will still do easy wheelies. These motors are BUZZY- the fix is to balance the clutch basket (Werkes in TX) and SHIM THE REAR AXLE spacers 3mm to the left. Design flaw. PS- take it easy on the powershifts as these WILL eat 3rd Gear cogs if brutal. Stock seat sucks, too narrow and spongey; get a Corbin. Steel brake lines in front are much better.
After riding a 1200S for 55,00 miles, I can relate to everything you’re saying. The mileage you quote is the same as my Bandit with stock cams, Dynajet kit and Yosh endcan. Avg. 38 mpg. The “buzz” you mentioned is there but it never bothered me. One of the best bikes I ever owned and should’ve never sold it. My wife would think I’m crazy, but if I found another clean example, I’d buy it!
@@Carby4SZK Needs a machinist... put the basket on a spindle and let it settle to the heavier side... then drill out some metal (in a safe area) until the basket does not spin anymore .. equal on all sides. Much like Static balancing on a wheel
@@Mybwain Anything yeilding the same performance at a lower rpm, is going to make you happier for a daily transportation. I lreally like Hornets, but the B12 gen 1 is soo worth it.
The Bandit range were a good reasonably priced set of motorcycles that did a bit of everything well. They sold like hot cakes in the UK when they came out. And held their money well for a long time. That one looks to have been looked after well. Should keep you happy for some time to come.
Great bike mate😊. Mine is a 2003 model, bog standard, except for the seat. I got mine remade by an upholsterer. This will, in all likelihood, be remaining with me for the rest of my riding days. I love it, it does everything well, and is as reliable as they come.
I ran into a guy flying a rc helecopter at a local rc port in southern deleware . We are both fans of this chanel . Small world . I was on my 78 cb750 . 🍺 Cheers .
Go check out the HJC V10, it's a proper helmet with all the proper sealing and anti-fog insert, with a bit old school style. Having a good and quiet helmet will help in getting better audio when riding.
I have a ‘97 1200S and absolutely love it, I don’t think I’ll ever get rid of it unless I can’t ride anymore (old age) lol enjoy my friend glad you’re back on a Bandit!
It's a great bike. It has a great maneurability around the corners and the engine offers a good amount of power. Happy for you and wishing you a very happy ride with the bandit
@@BrickHouseBuilds Its two things, you need the Bandit triple tree stem, then cut the GSXR steering knob/restrictor and weld on two new for the Bandit. I have decided to go that route, as it can be restored to original as you wond do anything with the frame. Easily a two-night deal 😎
Awesome Bike, I loved my Bandit GSF1200S. I wish I still had it! I'd have another in a heartbeat. Wishing you many many Happy miles with yours! Don't ever let it go!
Just found your video. Made me have flashbacks. I once owned a 1980 Honda CX500 Custom, great bike. It appears similar to one in background of the video. Also, I owned a 1997 Bandit 1200 S. Mine was blue. I've been fortunate in my years of having some unique and mostly terrific bikes. The Bandit was among my favorites. I know you'll enjoy your recent purchase. Stay safe out there my friend.
Nothing better than the 1200/1250 Bandits ! 🤘🏻🔥 I owned one in the past and I’ve got another now that is just so good. That 1200/1250 engine is STILL epic.
Wow what a Bandit . I have just bought a 1997 bandit with only 20000 miles on the clock . Fulley restored . Powder coated frame ,Respray tank full engine rebuild and its like new . Great bike very strong engine and looks great . Now a true classic and making money now and very hard to find .
I had a 99 Bandit 1200s. I drag raced it for a couple of years. The mods I did were. Kantana cams, Mikuni 40mm flat slides, titanium header, Vance and Hines megaphone, 6 inch extended swing arm, Pingel wheelie bars, air shifter, rear slick, and a Rev limiter. It ran mid 9s in the quarter. In 2001, I won the Pro ET bracket of the AMA Houston Cycle Fest. I loved that bike. In stock form it was a wheelie monster. In race form I would give Hyabusas a run for there money, unti I ran out of gears. Only had a 5 speed. Needed one more gear.
late 90's Suzukis carbs are a bit of a pain but man o man Suzuki's paint jobs are beautiful. Side note, that green is so gorgeous! Love from Minnesota bud.
One of the all-time great bikes. It does lots of stuff better than most. Plus it comes in under insurance company radar! I've had mine for almost 18 years and haven't had to do *anything* to it other than the usual stuff. I'll keep it until the end.
I love these kinds of buys. Where the only mods to be are little changes here and there to make it your own… maybe minor upgrades, but nothing that’ll take it out of commission for even a single day.
@@BrickHouseBuilds definitely looking forward to seeing what features you end up changing and why, wether it be creature comforts or basic upgrades like electrical system related stuff. I’m assuming your planning on putting a more permanent charging solution for your phone than the temporary one that you ran for just the trip?
Congrats! It's a beauty. You're gonna love it. The big Bandit was on my short list for a long time. Never happened, but I just bought a '99 600s from the original owner. Also super clean, the guy bought it when he was 17. Great bikes, they are, and out of all the Japanese fours, the Suzukis have the best sound IMO, especially the air/oil cooled ones.
Fly and ride is great. Flew from S. Alabama to Oregon. Purchased a 2003 Ducati ST4S. The owner put new timing belts and a battery on. 3700 miles back home. Enjoyed the video BJ and enjoy the BANDIT and RIDE SAFE OUT THERE!.
The bandit 1200s were very popular over here in the U.K . I have been looking into getting one of these myself . Just found your channel and its great , just subbed , cheers . Love the green colour .
I bought mine new in 1997. I blew up the original engine (cam chain jumped, my fault). Landed up tuning the replacement engine (1216cc, reprofiled cams, head played with), and with flat slide carbs it managed 158hp. Fun for top speed runs on runways. But flat slides were a pain on the road (I made the mistake of using it for local Christmas toy run one year - heavy duty clutch springs and heavy throttle were painful by the end). Speedo over reads. An indicated 170mph is an actual 154.5mph Problem wise, frame paint suffered underneath. The front boot on down tube cross piece rusted through. Rear calipers seize easily (I keep a rebuilt spare handy, for my 1200 or a friends 600), but fronts are good. Fuel gauge can be a bit iffy. Mine is currently half stripped down. Putting a stock engine back in, and waiting for a few friends to help me lift the engine out.
Fascinating video. Being in the UK, the idea of flying somewhere to buy a bike seems alien, but it was interesting to see your journey home. I'd be tempted to put the stock cams back in it, for better mid-range and fuel economy 😊
Yeah the US is vast like that. Ive flown many times to go buy something or look at it before having something shipped. As far as camsI am still getting used to the bike but it does not feel peaky at all with gobs of mid range still. I would like to get a more accurate reading on speed and mileage to see how far off it is. Slightly better economy wouldn't be a bad thing.
I have a 2008 1250 bandit S..got to say the power band is what makes me excited when I ride it..badass & reliable bikes..sweet bike nice mileage for the year..enjoy!!!
Had one but sold it and bought a sv650 2004. Bandit engine is like a turbine, strong, steady and never ends pulling. Mine had a strange carb backfire when cold that no mechanic could figure out. Also, for short trips the engine didn't even got warm. Brakes were stron but the lack of abs at that weight almost cost me a crash and pedestrian hit at a rainy day and under 30kmh...overall great bike
My first bike was a 650 N Bandit. I bought it 9 years ago and just sold it to a young biker girl. Such a good bike. Very easy to drive despite the weight!
You're lucky, this is probably one of the best bike of it's time. Bullet proof engine, loads of torque. Easy to ride...I still have to find its limits...
Congrats on the new ride ! I have owned / ridden many Jap bikes in the last 45 years. For the past 18 years i have ridden mostly big bore ( 3 Honda V-4 's ) and also a Yamaha Seca 750, plus a Honda 750 Nighthawk, but sold all my 750's , cuz big bore power is too addictive :)
Great find! My first bike was a 2000 Bandit 600, such a comfortable ride albeit a bit windy at speed (mine was the naked version). Did a tail tidy, LED indicators, bar end mirrors and some subtle chrome delete. Turned out quite handsome if I can say so myself. 😄
I had the exact same bike. Bought it new. Ran like crap because it was the last year of carbs and was so lean it took 10 minutes to warm up. Called Dale Walker and bought all the good bolt-on stuff (Stage II jet kit, twin oval filters, 5 degree ignition advancer, full header/exhaust can) The thing was a beast thereafter! Carbureted perfectly with a 20 hp rear wheel gain. Rode it until I almost missed the guy who ran the red light (first crash in 35 years of riding) Miss the bike, miss the riding. Ran like a clock, never left me walking. Bastard burned up tires (what else is new?), but that's about it.
Fantastic bike! 👍 l just bought a 2002 Honda CB 500s 13000 miles immaculate condition, totally standard NO mods. New tyres, battery, mirrors, brake pads, brake fluid, fully serviced £2000 the guy was a 73 year old UK biker, lovely man. Bike never seen rain. My plan is to ride it and polish it. Enjoy the Big Suzuki.
back in 1996 myself and my son had 600 bandits . moving on to 1999 we both had 1200 bandits ,mine was like yours in black and son Chris had naked 1200 in black . in 2011 i had a 1250 bandit . they are great bikes and now at 74 years old ride scooters as cant change gear ,foot problems .we are in the u k . you have a nice one there and i like the colour also . good luck
How weird as I watch your video on the Bandit. I too was offered a 2005 1200 Bandit this week in Blue and White colours. Just under 7k on the clock. The owner has only had it two weeks. Says he doesn't like it, too heavy for him. Must admit I did Ponder buying t off him..🙂 Just as well I don't have more room at the Inn. Love this Green colour of yours. I love your roads too. My God they look smooth and very straight, a dream for long rides. I was quite envious. Im also as excited as you are about getting a new machine. Love this video. Hope you have many safe and happy miles together. 🙂
Ooh, yeah. I bought a 2001 Bandit 1200S two weeks ago. One previous owner and full service history. It's a sweet kitty at low revs and low speeds, but once you open up, it's a rocket. Dream!
@@BrickHouseBuilds What a amazes me about my single Yamaha XT660Z Tenere is that even after riding the Bandit, it is a fun bike and while it does not have the top end, it does not feel underpowered. I think it's the single, pretty long stroke torque. Torque means fun!
I had a 1998 1200 Bandit that I used to commute 25 miles one way to work in Phoenix. I rode it when the temperature was in the 30’s in the winter, and in stop and go traffic when it was 112 degrees. I never had an issue with it, the oil cooling worked fine. Now I have a 1250 Bandit, but my commuting days are thankfully over. It would be nice to see you do a valve adjustment on it, should be soon as they’re every 7500 miles. But easy as it’s screw and locknut.
I loved my 1999 , 1200 N it was pearl novelty black, done some cosmetic changes,used pro bolt , changed the bars to renthal but comfy ones mid height so not stretching forwards , carbs dynoed . Custom bandit seat , bandit fork brace and handle bar brace engraved alot thicker just things that made it pop a bit more , I rode that more than my fireplace once you've sorted the bandits suspension out and braided break lines it's so fun to ride . Unfortunately my hip gave in and had to hang my gloves up for good , because it was mint condition I never rode it on the very salty roads in Scotland the salt is a nightmare,but when I had to it got a proper wash getting home behind the down pipes and front of engine one night got in with salt on the tyres even though the roads dry ,in the garage next day my tyres were wet the salt reacted , didn't mind summer rain though lol
Glad you got the bike you were looking for. Looks in great shape and the ride back looked like alot of fun. I was holding out for a red bandit for a long time but settled on a 2000 "Metallic Light Olive Silver" cause the price was too good to pass up. Would love to see a dyno video with those GSXR cams.
Very cool video! Good on you for paying extra for something you can enjoy, rather than wrench on. We all need some of each! Congrats on the civilized version of the GSXR. I love the tight cooling fins of this generation Suzuki. The last air cooled refinement before they went to liquid cooling.
Super cool scoot man!! Buying used has a lot to do with the previous owner or seller when paying high in the range. I'm stoked to see you add the big Suzi to your collection, Great bikes, and looks and SOUNDS like you have a very nice example! WhooHoo!
Hello from Toxic Moto Racing! Have a 97 B12 myself in Dusk Blue that I am in the process of customizing into a cafe/scrambler. Was left to rot for 7 years and the tail was chopped up in order to convert it to a track day only bike. Nearing the finish line with my limited budget, so I’m looking forward to seeing your insights on this platform! Enjoy your Bandit!
My first 99 1200 Bandit in 2002 was the very same colour.. it got stolen and written off but I bought another because it was such a great machine. Its got heaps of everything.
All right now. I think at this point that the digital odometer is new. It has been changed. When that happens you loose the bikes history. New LED headlight. Pretty cheap stuff on ebay. But everything works. BJ does not need to hear about new stuff from me. Paperwork is tucked away with a new plate. Thanks for this ride all the tips and tricks. 👍
Those are fantastic bikes! All the benefits of a naked with a fairing. Bandits are rock solid. Congratz on the a sweet new ride. P.S. Got my keychain. She is the holder of the KZ750 keyz.
I picked up a 98 bandit 1200s a couple months ago for 1,000 bucks. My first big bike and also the 2nd bike I've ridden. She has her quirks, but I love it
I had a 1200 Bandit 24 years ago and sold it. Skip forward to 2024 I traded in my 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 for a used Suzuki Bandit 1250S. I great to be back to horsepower.
My son used to have a 600 Bandit and I had a FZ1. I sold my Yamaha a few years ago and now I'm eyeing a 1200. That green is amazing, I'm looking at a burgundy colored one.
To hear we’re popular bikes back in the day,considering the engine is essentially an oil cooled GSXR engine. Comfortable riding position and still good handling and powerful. Easy to soup up engine.
Extremely Clean bike. (pre bug hits 😆 of course) and I love that color. My 97 is dark Blue and those green ones are fairly rare. The intake growl tells me a jet kit has likely been installed and of course almost NOTHING sounds better than a Suzuki liter bike with a Yoshimura pipe. Pure music! 👍
Nice bike, lovely colour. I had a 2005 GSF650 Bandit S which had the top half fairing. Did a lot of 2 up touring round the UK with camping gear etc and it gave great fuel consumption and was easy to service. I replaced it in 2012 with a GSX650F which is a good bike for the UK roads but is a swine to do service work on. For example, the radiator cap is under the petrol tank and you have to remove a shed load of parts to change the spark plugs. Suzuki did not do any favours for the home mechanics. That's a shame as it is a good bike otherwise.
I just found your channel today and love it. Very Similar to what I am doing and have done. I have slowed right down though the past couple years. And your videos are much more superior than mine. Great Job. Cheers!!
I just came across your UA-cam video regarding your Bandit. I also have a 1200s Bandit in unbelievable condition that I want to sell. It needs nothing, I've done everything. If you're looking for a pristine 1998 Bandit 1200s that looks, sounds and runs like brand new, well you know what to do!
I never owned a Bandit as I prefere the ZRX but I know many riders which regret selling their Bandit. These air cooled Bandits are great quality and easy to maintain bikes. A perfect example of the Japanese standard motorcycle. I wouldn't even change the traffic lights on it. It is perfect as it came from Hamamatsu.
@@BrickHouseBuilds I owned 2 ZRX1100 and would always prefere them over the ZRX1200 if equipped with an Akrapovic or Termignoni exhaust manifold. Big-bike boost from 3000 to limiter. No sudden death at 8000rpm. This is due to the limiting to 106hp for the Japanese market. They used the exhaust manifold do make it a 106hp electric motor. Compared to the Bandit or CB1300 the ZRX is a very compact bike and it handles like that. I had no problems keeping up with Super Motos on tight infields (170mm rear wheel).
I love my 03 Bandit. Nobody thinks Bandits are cool so they're cheap! I would like to get a 1250 for the six speed and water cooled. But I love in-line 4's and she's a beast! Yours in beautiful condition and I like the color 👍
I bought a 1997 1200 bandit in the same colour. It was a awesome machine. Unfortunately I had to sell it because I got copd at 65 years old. I got some nice chrome mirror extensions off eBay. They made a massive difference in seeing down each side of the bike. I would strongly recommend getting them. I love your bike. ❤ They look nice with a hugger on the back wheel. 😊
Cool Bike! Thanks for sharing. Love your videos on restoration. I like working on my Honda Hawk NT650. Many of the techniques that you note in your videos are applicable to my bike. It sounds like your Bandit could benefit from a little carburetor tuning, maybe a carb synch. Good Luck with that bike and all your other projects!
@@BrickHouseBuilds At about 10:15 when you started the bike and blipped the throttle a few times, there seemed to be a delay from the intake whoosh to the exhaust sound. Maybe it was just a delay on my end between video and audio. Either way those bikes are great and known for their crisp throttle response. Enjoy!
@Brick House Builds yes they were. They started the big engine naked street brawler type. People had been doing naked sport bike customs but most manufacturers followed Suzuki bandit success. Love how yours has a yoshimura exhaust. This was the no 1 mod back in the day.
Man,You are SOOOOOOOOOOO LUCKY!!! I've ALWAYS wanted to own a Suzook Bandit 1200!!! Their extremely reliable an their engine's are bulletproof!!! Ahh,someday...........someday!!! Also.........I LOVE the "Green" color on it too as it reminds me of my old Suzuki RF900 in that EXACT SAME British racing green!!! Loved the color so take great care of this one Man!!! Loved watching this one!!! : >)
@@BrickHouseBuilds I agree completely!!! For some reason however,when they first came out,the sportsbike guys never took a "liking" to it's looks and the press (Motorcycle magazines back then) always made a point of saying how they disliked the overall "look" of the bike,but loved everything else about it! So hearing YOU say that it's a great looking bike,RESTORED my belief in it as even back then when they were new,I ALWAYS thought they looked very stylish,but not overdone! Anyway if You SUCCUMB to buying one,YOU WILL NOT AT ALL BE DISAPPOINTED!!! Trust me on that one! ; >)
It has a Yoshi pipe right? GSXR 750 cams the only other mod it has? Check for a K&N filter. The timing advancer is a cheap and worthwhile performance mod. Check out Dale Walker's Stage II jet kit. I like the Bandit cams. The power is moved down low. You can outrun almost anything on the street up to about 100mph. I don't like the meat of the power being in the high revs. You cruise at about 4500 and it starts blasting away at 5k-5500 rpms. It's all about the usable torque.
Yoshi muffler, advanced timing, carbs jetted, gsxr750 cams, likely a filter as that is a basic supporting mod. This doesn't feel like it has peaky type power as it pulls hard anywhere. Regardless its not a race bike just a fun street beast to do everything
Years ago I was an otr truck driver. I got laid over one weekend and caught a cab to a motorcycle dealership. I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan classic, 800. Dark green. I filled her up with gas and road home which was about 300 miles. I stopped for gas and some guys were admiring my purchase and talking about how you could “smell the new burning off”. As the sun when down I pulled into home, feeling so good.
I am a bit of a Bandit expert. My 1200W model now has 175,000 miles on it, (yes I have rebuilt the motor myself). It's been around the US multiple times and does Trackdays. MODS- Ivan needles, stock airbox, STOCK jet sizes. Get a quality exhaust can (mine is Yosh). THROW THE SHOCK AWAY, it is pure crap. I use a Hyperpro, with Racetech springs and valve kit in front: INCREDIBLE IMPROVEMENT! Mine has a JE pistons 1216cc piston kit and light headwork; it makes an honest 120 hp on the dyno with EIGHTY TWO pounds of torque. If you add one tooth to the front sprocket it will improve the highway ride and will still do easy wheelies. These motors are BUZZY- the fix is to balance the clutch basket (Werkes in TX) and SHIM THE REAR AXLE spacers 3mm to the left. Design flaw. PS- take it easy on the powershifts as these WILL eat 3rd Gear cogs if brutal. Stock seat sucks, too narrow and spongey; get a Corbin. Steel brake lines in front are much better.
After riding a 1200S for 55,00 miles, I can relate to everything you’re saying. The mileage you quote is the same as my Bandit with stock cams, Dynajet kit and Yosh endcan. Avg. 38 mpg. The “buzz” you mentioned is there but it never bothered me. One of the best bikes I ever owned and should’ve never sold it. My wife would think I’m crazy, but if I found another clean example, I’d buy it!
What does cog mean? Just bought mine today
I have a Bandit 600 and would like to upgrade to a 1200 one. How do you balance the clutch basket?
@@Carby4SZK Needs a machinist... put the basket on a spindle and let it settle to the heavier side... then drill out some metal (in a safe area) until the basket does not spin anymore .. equal on all sides. Much like Static balancing on a wheel
@@888jackflash thanks for the info.
In 1992 I did a 17,000 KM solo tour of the entire country of Thailand on a Bandit 400 imported from Japan. Great bike, never let me down!
I will always have a thing for Bandits. My first “ big bike” and the bike that made me want a road bike. Can’t beat a 4 cylinder bike!
Same, they are just too good!
I always wanted a hornet but nowadays a 1200 bandit it's something that holds something special for me for some reasons
@@Mybwain Anything yeilding the same performance at a lower rpm, is going to make you happier for a daily transportation. I lreally like Hornets, but the B12 gen 1 is soo worth it.
The Bandit range were a good reasonably priced set of motorcycles that did a bit of everything well. They sold like hot cakes in the UK when they came out. And held their money well for a long time. That one looks to have been looked after well. Should keep you happy for some time to come.
I hope to have it forever
Awesome Bike. I’ve owned both a a1200 and 1250 Bandit. The torque pull is immediate and strong. I called it the “Old Man” sportbike.
I'm 52 and I got a 1250 last week! So I guess that's bang on - but my daughter loves it to bits too!
Great bike mate😊. Mine is a 2003 model, bog standard, except for the seat. I got mine remade by an upholsterer. This will, in all likelihood, be remaining with me for the rest of my riding days. I love it, it does everything well, and is as reliable as they come.
Thats the goal here. A forever bike
I love my 1250s but the seats bloody awful!
Great bikes! I had it's predecessor a 93 GSX1100S (wish I still had that bike). That air and oil cooled engine just had something special about it.
I ran into a guy flying a rc helecopter at a local rc port in southern deleware . We are both fans of this chanel . Small world . I was on my 78 cb750 . 🍺 Cheers .
Thats awesome!!
Cool bike. Monster engine, classy looks, good ergos. An underrated classic. I loved the one I rode.
Pretty much everything you could need. Just such good machines
Go check out the HJC V10, it's a proper helmet with all the proper sealing and anti-fog insert, with a bit old school style. Having a good and quiet helmet will help in getting better audio when riding.
🤣🤣🤣🤣💯 This is the Guy that purchased a 1200s few years ago that had issues.He has however convinced me to purchase one .Love the video
I have a ‘97 1200S and absolutely love it, I don’t think I’ll ever get rid of it unless I can’t ride anymore (old age) lol enjoy my friend glad you’re back on a Bandit!
I think my plan is the same. I hope to hang onto it for a long time
It's a great bike. It has a great maneurability around the corners and the engine offers a good amount of power. Happy for you and wishing you a very happy ride with the bandit
Thank ya!
I LOVE the Bandits. Have a 19971200N myself. You know a 1100GSXR USD front fork is a direct replacement with keeping the stock wheel and brakes 👼
I just so happen to have a GSXR1100 front end in my parts hoard lol.
@@BrickHouseBuilds Its two things, you need the Bandit triple tree stem, then cut the GSXR steering knob/restrictor and weld on two new for the Bandit.
I have decided to go that route, as it can be restored to original as you wond do anything with the frame. Easily a two-night deal 😎
what a lovely bike and I love the colour! Nice sound coming from the exhaust and loads of power! Enjoy your ride mate.
Thank ya!
Awesome Bike, I loved my Bandit GSF1200S. I wish I still had it! I'd have another in a heartbeat.
Wishing you many many Happy miles with yours! Don't ever let it go!
Just found your video. Made me have flashbacks. I once owned a 1980 Honda CX500 Custom, great bike. It appears similar to one in background of the video. Also, I owned a 1997 Bandit 1200 S. Mine was blue. I've been fortunate in my years of having some unique and mostly terrific bikes. The Bandit was among my favorites. I know you'll enjoy your recent purchase. Stay safe out there my friend.
Nothing better than the 1200/1250 Bandits ! 🤘🏻🔥 I owned one in the past and I’ve got another now that is just so good. That 1200/1250 engine is STILL epic.
🤘🤘
Wow what a Bandit . I have just bought a 1997 bandit with only 20000 miles on the clock . Fulley restored . Powder coated frame ,Respray tank full engine rebuild and its like new . Great bike very strong engine and looks great . Now a true classic and making money now and very hard to find .
That sounds really nice!
I had a 99 Bandit 1200s. I drag raced it for a couple of years. The mods I did were. Kantana cams, Mikuni 40mm flat slides, titanium header, Vance and Hines megaphone, 6 inch extended swing arm, Pingel wheelie bars, air shifter, rear slick, and a Rev limiter. It ran mid 9s in the quarter. In 2001, I won the Pro ET bracket of the AMA Houston Cycle Fest. I loved that bike. In stock form it was a wheelie monster. In race form I would give Hyabusas a run for there money, unti I ran out of gears. Only had a 5 speed. Needed one more gear.
late 90's Suzukis carbs are a bit of a pain but man o man Suzuki's paint jobs are beautiful. Side note, that green is so gorgeous! Love from Minnesota bud.
One of the all-time great bikes. It does lots of stuff better than most. Plus it comes in under insurance company radar! I've had mine for almost 18 years and haven't had to do *anything* to it other than the usual stuff. I'll keep it until the end.
I'm definitely loving that insurance cost as well. This will likely be a forever bike
I love these kinds of buys. Where the only mods to be are little changes here and there to make it your own… maybe minor upgrades, but nothing that’ll take it out of commission for even a single day.
Exactly! My hands are full with builds so I need stuff to just ride
@@BrickHouseBuilds definitely looking forward to seeing what features you end up changing and why, wether it be creature comforts or basic upgrades like electrical system related stuff. I’m assuming your planning on putting a more permanent charging solution for your phone than the temporary one that you ran for just the trip?
Congrats! It's a beauty. You're gonna love it.
The big Bandit was on my short list for a long time. Never happened, but I just bought a '99 600s from the original owner. Also super clean, the guy bought it when he was 17. Great bikes, they are, and out of all the Japanese fours, the Suzukis have the best sound IMO, especially the air/oil cooled ones.
Thanks Kevin!
Love those oil cooled motors and that looks a fine example of a 1200s 👍😎
Fly and ride is great. Flew from S. Alabama to Oregon. Purchased a 2003 Ducati ST4S. The owner put new timing belts and a battery on. 3700 miles back home. Enjoyed the video BJ and enjoy the BANDIT and RIDE SAFE OUT THERE!.
Dang thats an awesome ride home!
Bandit's, whether 1200 or 1250 are such underated motorcycles.
Best bike I have owned, love them.
Not at all. B12 is legend.
Cool video! That looked like a great ride back home. And, what a clean bike! Like you, I also like the green color - looks fantastic.
I love green so this was a must
The bandit 1200s were very popular over here in the U.K .
I have been looking into getting one of these myself .
Just found your channel and its great , just subbed , cheers .
Love the green colour .
They are great do-all bikes. Highly recommend!
I bought mine new in 1997. I blew up the original engine (cam chain jumped, my fault). Landed up tuning the replacement engine (1216cc, reprofiled cams, head played with), and with flat slide carbs it managed 158hp. Fun for top speed runs on runways. But flat slides were a pain on the road (I made the mistake of using it for local Christmas toy run one year - heavy duty clutch springs and heavy throttle were painful by the end).
Speedo over reads. An indicated 170mph is an actual 154.5mph
Problem wise, frame paint suffered underneath. The front boot on down tube cross piece rusted through. Rear calipers seize easily (I keep a rebuilt spare handy, for my 1200 or a friends 600), but fronts are good. Fuel gauge can be a bit iffy.
Mine is currently half stripped down. Putting a stock engine back in, and waiting for a few friends to help me lift the engine out.
Fascinating video. Being in the UK, the idea of flying somewhere to buy a bike seems alien, but it was interesting to see your journey home. I'd be tempted to put the stock cams back in it, for better mid-range and fuel economy 😊
Yeah the US is vast like that. Ive flown many times to go buy something or look at it before having something shipped. As far as camsI am still getting used to the bike but it does not feel peaky at all with gobs of mid range still. I would like to get a more accurate reading on speed and mileage to see how far off it is. Slightly better economy wouldn't be a bad thing.
I have a 2008 1250 bandit S..got to say the power band is what makes me excited when I ride it..badass & reliable bikes..sweet bike nice mileage for the year..enjoy!!!
Great bikes for sure!
Had one but sold it and bought a sv650 2004. Bandit engine is like a turbine, strong, steady and never ends pulling. Mine had a strange carb backfire when cold that no mechanic could figure out. Also, for short trips the engine didn't even got warm. Brakes were stron but the lack of abs at that weight almost cost me a crash and pedestrian hit at a rainy day and under 30kmh...overall great bike
Put.. put..i have that pop too on my 06 bandit😂😂😂
I got Suzuki EN125 bought it on early 2008 till now, easy to ride, only have minor issue since then
I rode a used 82' GS125 in 1990 to 1992..same engine as GN125 or EN125..ive been riding a bandit1200 since 2008
I allways loved the naked bandit 400 and this one looks really good. Congrats for the new baby.
I've seen a few Bandit 400s for sale locally and they look interesting.
Awesome pickup! I ride a 2004 Bandit 1200S and I absolutely love it.
My first bike was a 650 N Bandit. I bought it 9 years ago and just sold it to a young biker girl. Such a good bike. Very easy to drive despite the weight!
You're lucky, this is probably one of the best bike of it's time. Bullet proof engine, loads of torque. Easy to ride...I still have to find its limits...
Definitely lucky. I had one before and just loved it so when I couldn't keep that one I knew it needed to be replaced.
lmao this is what i mentioned in my comment earlier.Thanks for this video Brother🙏🏽
Congrats on the new ride ! I have owned / ridden many Jap bikes in the last 45 years. For the past 18 years i have ridden mostly big bore ( 3 Honda V-4 's ) and also a Yamaha Seca 750, plus a Honda 750 Nighthawk, but sold all my 750's , cuz big bore power is too addictive :)
I had a '97, fantastic bike. Best color ever. I'm around st. charles quite a bit - I'll be look'n for ya! Ride safe.
Sweet! You will likely see me on this at a bike night or something
Great find! My first bike was a 2000 Bandit 600, such a comfortable ride albeit a bit windy at speed (mine was the naked version). Did a tail tidy, LED indicators, bar end mirrors and some subtle chrome delete. Turned out quite handsome if I can say so myself. 😄
I had the exact same bike. Bought it new. Ran like crap because it was the last year of carbs and was so lean it took 10 minutes to warm up. Called Dale Walker and bought all the good bolt-on stuff (Stage II jet kit, twin oval filters, 5 degree ignition advancer, full header/exhaust can) The thing was a beast thereafter! Carbureted perfectly with a 20 hp rear wheel gain. Rode it until I almost missed the guy who ran the red light (first crash in 35 years of riding) Miss the bike, miss the riding. Ran like a clock, never left me walking. Bastard burned up tires (what else is new?), but that's about it.
Sounds like the 2006 bandit s.. i ride that lean bike today..
Fantastic bike! 👍 l just bought a 2002 Honda CB 500s 13000 miles immaculate condition, totally standard NO mods. New tyres, battery, mirrors, brake pads, brake fluid, fully serviced £2000 the guy was a 73 year old UK biker, lovely man. Bike never seen rain.
My plan is to ride it and polish it.
Enjoy the Big Suzuki.
Very nice!
back in 1996 myself and my son had 600 bandits . moving on to 1999 we both had 1200 bandits ,mine was like yours in black and son Chris had naked 1200 in black . in 2011 i had a 1250 bandit . they are great bikes and now at 74 years old ride scooters as cant change gear ,foot problems .we are in the u k . you have a nice one there and i like the colour also . good luck
Nothing wrong with scooters. My dad had a couple for the same reason with shifting
Great bikes... Seen loads of nice streetfighter, liwriders, chops built from those in the UK back a few years ago. 🇬🇧🏍️💨👍
Pleased to see that you bought a damn reliable and common sense bike.
Big Suzuki's are super dependable.
Nice bike
Nick Australia
Thank ya!
Hi BJ, so happy you got a bike you really wanted, good for you bud.
Thanks Tony!
How weird as I watch your video on the Bandit. I too was offered a 2005 1200 Bandit this week in Blue and White colours. Just under 7k on the clock. The owner has only had it two weeks. Says he doesn't like it, too heavy for him. Must admit I did Ponder buying t off him..🙂 Just as well I don't have more room at the Inn. Love this Green colour of yours. I love your roads too. My God they look smooth and very straight, a dream for long rides. I was quite envious. Im also as excited as you are about getting a new machine. Love this video. Hope you have many safe and happy miles together. 🙂
Thank ya! The roads were just boring highway but yes you can cover lots of ground
Ooh, yeah. I bought a 2001 Bandit 1200S two weeks ago. One previous owner and full service history. It's a sweet kitty at low revs and low speeds, but once you open up, it's a rocket. Dream!
The bikes just pull from any rpm which is fun. Torque is what makes them such monsters
@@BrickHouseBuilds What a amazes me about my single Yamaha XT660Z Tenere is that even after riding the Bandit, it is a fun bike and while it does not have the top end, it does not feel underpowered. I think it's the single, pretty long stroke torque. Torque means fun!
I had a 1998 1200 Bandit that I used to commute 25 miles one way to work in Phoenix. I rode it when the temperature was in the 30’s in the winter, and in stop and go traffic when it was 112 degrees. I never had an issue with it, the oil cooling worked fine. Now I have a 1250 Bandit, but my commuting days are thankfully over. It would be nice to see you do a valve adjustment on it, should be soon as they’re every 7500 miles. But easy as it’s screw and locknut.
The valves were adjusted with the cam installation just 200 miles before I bought it but ill do the check eventually
I loved my 1999 , 1200 N it was pearl novelty black, done some cosmetic changes,used pro bolt , changed the bars to renthal but comfy ones mid height so not stretching forwards , carbs dynoed . Custom bandit seat , bandit fork brace and handle bar brace engraved alot thicker just things that made it pop a bit more , I rode that more than my fireplace once you've sorted the bandits suspension out and braided break lines it's so fun to ride . Unfortunately my hip gave in and had to hang my gloves up for good , because it was mint condition I never rode it on the very salty roads in Scotland the salt is a nightmare,but when I had to it got a proper wash getting home behind the down pipes and front of engine one night got in with salt on the tyres even though the roads dry ,in the garage next day my tyres were wet the salt reacted , didn't mind summer rain though lol
Yeah simple changes are all that will be needed here
Glad you got the bike you were looking for. Looks in great shape and the ride back looked like alot of fun. I was holding out for a red bandit for a long time but settled on a 2000 "Metallic Light Olive Silver" cause the price was too good to pass up. Would love to see a dyno video with those GSXR cams.
Thank ya! I do hope to get it on the dyno which has me curious as well
Very cool acquisition! Looks like a nice ride back to the house, too. Glad you got a great bike for a great deal, enjoy it!
Thanks for a fun video!
Couldn't have asked for better weather except for a bunch of wind. It will be enjoyed!
Very cool video! Good on you for paying extra for something you can enjoy, rather than wrench on. We all need some of each! Congrats on the civilized version of the GSXR. I love the tight cooling fins of this generation Suzuki. The last air cooled refinement before they went to liquid cooling.
These engines are fan favorites for sure. Last of the old school
Nice find. I saw you at the STL DGR last Sunday but didn’t say hi. We were both checking out that Franken Honda with the chalk on the tank.
That CB750 was so cool! Glad you made it on the ride!
Super cool scoot man!! Buying used has a lot to do with the previous owner or seller when paying high in the range. I'm stoked to see you add the big Suzi to your collection,
Great bikes, and looks and SOUNDS like you have a very nice example! WhooHoo!
It seems like a very well cared for bike and im lucky to have it
@@BrickHouseBuilds
Always glad to hear back man, love your channel!
Hello from Toxic Moto Racing!
Have a 97 B12 myself in Dusk Blue that I am in the process of customizing into a cafe/scrambler. Was left to rot for 7 years and the tail was chopped up in order to convert it to a track day only bike.
Nearing the finish line with my limited budget, so I’m looking forward to seeing your insights on this platform!
Enjoy your Bandit!
Are you with Toxic Moto? I just ordered some parts from there.
Had one. Loved it. Did 60,000 miles on it. Great long distance touring rig. Enjoy. 🏍️🇨🇦
What a beautiful motorcycle, man. You made the right decision!
Thank you!
My first 99 1200 Bandit in 2002 was the very same colour.. it got stolen and written off but I bought another because it was such a great machine. Its got heaps of everything.
Thats unfortunate yours got stolen!
I had one from new, great bike, buzzy around 50-60, handled well once setup.
All right now. I think at this point that the digital odometer is new. It has been changed. When that happens you loose the bikes history. New LED headlight. Pretty cheap stuff on ebay. But everything works. BJ does not need to hear about new stuff from me. Paperwork is tucked away with a new plate. Thanks for this ride all the tips and tricks. 👍
Very clean looking bandit 12 looks good in green enjoy
Glad to see that you finally got another Bandit - they story of the one you lost - sucks! You deserve something nice!
Yeah that last one was a heartbreak for sure. This fills the void and then some!
Good luck with the new ride, love the color.
Thanks Juan!
Those are fantastic bikes! All the benefits of a naked with a fairing. Bandits are rock solid. Congratz on the a sweet new ride. P.S. Got my keychain. She is the holder of the KZ750 keyz.
Awesome! Hopefully it suits the bike well! 🙏
I picked up a 98 bandit 1200s a couple months ago for 1,000 bucks. My first big bike and also the 2nd bike I've ridden. She has her quirks, but I love it
That sounds like a good deal!
@BrickHouseBuilds it was. Doesn't run 100% right now, but I'm getting it back to running good and able to ride at the same time
The ultimate sport touring bike!! Thanks for Sharing!!
Thanks Tony!
Beautifully clean bike, I used to have a Suzuki 1250s Bandit great bikes, Greetings from Ireland.
🤘🤘
Glad you found a nice Bandit, after the bad luck you had with the last one, Ride Safe!
Thanks Mark! Yeah the last one didn't go as planned to say the least
I had a 1200 Bandit 24 years ago and sold it. Skip forward to 2024 I traded in my 2023 Kawasaki KLR 650 for a used Suzuki Bandit 1250S. I great to be back to horsepower.
Hard to not want that power!
My son used to have a 600 Bandit and I had a FZ1. I sold my Yamaha a few years ago and now I'm eyeing a 1200. That green is amazing, I'm looking at a burgundy colored one.
After seeing a green one in person I just couldn't help but want one! Very classy color
I had 96 Bandit 600 in the same color, great bike, fun ride.
That they are! My first Bandit experience was on a 600 and those are equally great
To hear we’re popular bikes back in the day,considering the engine is essentially an oil cooled GSXR engine. Comfortable riding position and still good handling and powerful. Easy to soup up engine.
All the things to like
"This made me smile the smiliest smile.", I said smilingly.🙂
Glad it had that effect!
Extremely Clean bike. (pre bug hits 😆 of course) and I love that color. My 97 is dark Blue and those green ones are fairly rare. The intake growl tells me a jet kit has likely been installed and of course almost NOTHING sounds better than a Suzuki liter bike with a Yoshimura pipe. Pure music! 👍
Oh man sooooo many bugs lol. Thank you though!
Lovely bike, green beautiful,am rebuilding a gsx ll00f just wonder as spares are rare do you think bandit exhaust headers would fit my bike?
That I don't know
Nice bike, lovely colour. I had a 2005 GSF650 Bandit S which had the top half fairing. Did a lot of 2 up touring round the UK with camping gear etc and it gave great fuel consumption and was easy to service. I replaced it in 2012 with a GSX650F which is a good bike for the UK roads but is a swine to do service work on. For example, the radiator cap is under the petrol tank and you have to remove a shed load of parts to change the spark plugs. Suzuki did not do any favours for the home mechanics. That's a shame as it is a good bike otherwise.
Thats frustrating when basic service is hard! Great bikes though
Nice find there - a practical but fun bike with the basic engine from the 2nd gen GSX-R.
A great blend of the two
I recently moved to canada, always inspired by your videos, wanna start to ride motorcycles again
Well I hope you get back on 2 wheels!
I’ve got a 91 Bandit 400 with about the same number of miles on it. Love my little Bandit!
Very cool bikes!
I just found your channel today and love it. Very Similar to what I am doing and have done. I have slowed right down though the past couple years. And your videos are much more superior than mine. Great Job. Cheers!!
Well I'm glad you have enjoyed! Lots to see on my channel
First of all - mic setup - nailed it!
Thanks Mike! I had one clipped audio section and overall very clear given the mic was more exposed than it normally would have been.
The Bandit 1200’s are bombproof and just do everything well 👍😎. Enjoy it.
That they are!
I just came across your UA-cam video regarding your Bandit. I also have a 1200s Bandit in unbelievable condition that I want to sell. It needs nothing, I've done everything. If you're looking for a pristine 1998 Bandit 1200s that looks, sounds and runs like brand new, well you know what to do!
Congrats dude that's so exciting. Absolute beast of a bike! 🔥💪
Thank ya!
I have a green one too without fairing, had it 24 years. Have fun.
Awesome!
I never owned a Bandit as I prefere the ZRX but I know many riders which regret selling their Bandit. These air cooled Bandits are great quality and easy to maintain bikes. A perfect example of the Japanese standard motorcycle. I wouldn't even change the traffic lights on it. It is perfect as it came from Hamamatsu.
I have yet to ride a ZRX but would absolutely love to own one. They look fantastic
@@BrickHouseBuilds I owned 2 ZRX1100 and would always prefere them over the ZRX1200 if equipped with an Akrapovic or Termignoni exhaust manifold. Big-bike boost from 3000 to limiter. No sudden death at 8000rpm. This is due to the limiting to 106hp for the Japanese market. They used the exhaust manifold do make it a 106hp electric motor. Compared to the Bandit or CB1300 the ZRX is a very compact bike and it handles like that. I had no problems keeping up with Super Motos on tight infields (170mm rear wheel).
I love my 03 Bandit. Nobody thinks Bandits are cool so they're cheap! I would like to get a 1250 for the six speed and water cooled. But I love in-line 4's and she's a beast! Yours in beautiful condition and I like the color 👍
Every time I ride it I just wonder why sport touring bikes don't dominate the sales market lol. Zero things not to like
Always liked the 1200 Bandit , great bikes .
Yours looks sweet , congrat's and don't sell this one !
Thank ya!
I bought a 1997 1200 bandit in the same colour. It was a awesome machine. Unfortunately I had to sell it because I got copd at 65 years old.
I got some nice chrome mirror extensions off eBay. They made a massive difference in seeing down each side of the bike. I would strongly recommend getting them. I love your bike. ❤ They look nice with a hugger on the back wheel. 😊
That's definitely unfortunate but at least you got to enjoy it for a bit. I've already done a bar and mirror swap on this bike
Cool Bike! Thanks for sharing. Love your videos on restoration. I like working on my Honda Hawk NT650. Many of the techniques that you note in your videos are applicable to my bike. It sounds like your Bandit could benefit from a little carburetor tuning, maybe a carb synch. Good Luck with that bike and all your other projects!
Carbs are perfect. Why would you think sync?
@@BrickHouseBuilds At about 10:15 when you started the bike and blipped the throttle a few times, there seemed to be a delay from the intake whoosh to the exhaust sound. Maybe it was just a delay on my end between video and audio. Either way those bikes are great and known for their crisp throttle response. Enjoy!
That’s a great looking bike, I owned one in silver some 20 years ago.
Thanks Jon!
This is so cook. I remember seeing these new in Streetbike magazine.
I bet they were game changers then!
@Brick House Builds yes they were. They started the big engine naked street brawler type.
People had been doing naked sport bike customs but most manufacturers followed Suzuki bandit success.
Love how yours has a yoshimura exhaust. This was the no 1 mod back in the day.
Beatiful bike!, congrats B.J.!.
Thank ya! The green was a must have so I couldn't say no
Man,You are SOOOOOOOOOOO LUCKY!!! I've ALWAYS wanted to own a Suzook Bandit 1200!!! Their extremely reliable an their engine's are bulletproof!!! Ahh,someday...........someday!!! Also.........I LOVE the "Green" color on it too as it reminds me of my old Suzuki RF900 in that EXACT SAME British racing green!!! Loved the color so take great care of this one Man!!! Loved watching this one!!! : >)
The RF900 is a great looking bike. They keep popping up for sale near me and are always tempting
@@BrickHouseBuilds I agree completely!!! For some reason however,when they first came out,the sportsbike guys never took a "liking" to it's looks and the press (Motorcycle magazines back then) always made a point of saying how they disliked the overall "look" of the bike,but loved everything else about it! So hearing YOU say that it's a great looking bike,RESTORED my belief in it as even back then when they were new,I ALWAYS thought they looked very stylish,but not overdone! Anyway if You SUCCUMB to buying one,YOU WILL NOT AT ALL BE DISAPPOINTED!!! Trust me on that one! ; >)
Love the sound of a big four stretching it’s legs.
Same!
It has a Yoshi pipe right? GSXR 750 cams the only other mod it has? Check for a K&N filter. The timing advancer is a cheap and worthwhile performance mod. Check out Dale Walker's Stage II jet kit.
I like the Bandit cams. The power is moved down low. You can outrun almost anything on the street up to about 100mph. I don't like the meat of the power being in the high revs. You cruise at about 4500 and it starts blasting away at 5k-5500 rpms. It's all about the usable torque.
Yoshi muffler, advanced timing, carbs jetted, gsxr750 cams, likely a filter as that is a basic supporting mod. This doesn't feel like it has peaky type power as it pulls hard anywhere. Regardless its not a race bike just a fun street beast to do everything
Nice machine man I got 97 blue with gold wheels had it since 2004 can not bear to part with it
Nice!
Years ago I was an otr truck driver. I got laid over one weekend and caught a cab to a motorcycle dealership. I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan classic, 800. Dark green. I filled her up with gas and road home which was about 300 miles.
I stopped for gas and some guys were admiring my purchase and talking about how you could “smell the new burning off”. As the sun when down I pulled into home, feeling so good.
That's an excellent way to get home!
@@BrickHouseBuilds It was awesome. It was the first time I rode at night.