Once Honda had produced the world’s first turbocharged production motorcycle, the CX500T, it was inevitable that the rest of Japan’s Big Four would follow suit. Suzuki’s offering, the XN85 Turbo, was based on the normally aspirated GS650, but with chain final drive instead of shaft. The 673cc GS motor was heavily revised to withstand the increased stress of forced induction, and was equipped with a state-of-the-art engine management system. Maximum power of 85hp arrived at 8,500rpm on a relatively modest boost of around 9psi. Top speed of the XN85 was within a whisker of 210km/h and it handled well too.

This particular Suzuki XN85 Turbo was acquired by the current vendor in May 2013, since when it has been extensively restored using ‘new old stock’ parts sourced from all over the world. Photographically documented on an accompanying CD-ROM, the restoration included an engine rebuild; blasting and powder coating the frame and swinging arm; blasting, repainting and polishing the wheels; overhauling the turbocharger; new paintwork and decals; new brake discs and callipers; refurbishing all plastics and switch gear; and replacing all bearings and control cables. The silencers are new and the header pipes have been handmade in stainless steel. Presented in effectively ‘as new’ condition, the provision of braided brake hoses is the only notified deviation from factory specification apart from the stainless headers.

See the listing on Bonhams here. The bike was sold for GBP 6,900 (around AED 40,000).