Suzuki GS 700 E/ES

The 1985 Suzuki GS 700 E/ES emerges from a significant era for Japanese motorcycles, a time when manufacturers were navigating the complexities of import tariffs and a highly competitive market. This particular model, available in both E (standard) and ES (sport fairing) variants, was Suzuki's answer to the "tariff bikes" of the mid-eighties, specifically designed to circumvent the 700cc limit imposed on imported motorcycles. It found itself in direct competition with other tariff-beating machines like the Honda Nighthawk 700S and the Kawasaki GPz 750, all vying for a slice of the American sport-touring pie.

At the heart of the GS 700 E/ES is a robust 699.0 ccm (42.65 cubic inches) in-line four, four-stroke engine. This powerplant was engineered to produce a respectable 80.0 HP (58.4 kW) at 9300 RPM, giving it a lively character for its class. Torque figures stand at 63.0 Nm (6.4 kgf-m or 46.5 ft.lbs) peaking at 8500 RPM, providing ample thrust for highway cruising and spirited riding. With a wet weight of 229.0 kg (504.9 pounds), the engine's output was well-matched to the chassis, offering a competent power-to-weight ratio for the period. The 17.50 litres (4.62 US gallons) fuel tank provided a decent range for longer journeys.

Riding the GS 700 E/ES offers a balanced experience. The standard E model provides a more upright stance, conducive to comfortable touring, while the ES variant, with its frame-mounted fairing, offered improved wind protection and a slightly more aggressive, yet still road-focused, riding position. The seat height, at 800 mm (31.5 inches) at its lowest adjustable setting, accommodates a wide range of riders. Its suspension setup, typical for the era, prioritizes a smooth ride over outright track performance, making it suitable for varied road conditions without being overly soft. The handling is predictable and stable, inspiring confidence through sweeping curves.

The 1985 Suzuki GS 700 E/ES was aimed at riders seeking a versatile, reliable, and reasonably powerful motorcycle for everyday commuting, weekend touring, and spirited canyon carving. It appealed to those who appreciated the Japanese inline-four's smooth power delivery and Suzuki's reputation for durability. For collectors and enthusiasts today, it represents a significant chapter in motorcycle history, offering a capable and enjoyable ride that still holds its own as a classic sport-tourer. It's a bike for someone who values practicality and performance in equal measure, a true workhorse from the golden age of UJM.