1979 Suzuki GS425E

I purchased this 1979 GS425E on July 11, 2013. Mileage at time of purchase 6302 (10146 km). It is pictured above in Red Rocks Park near Morrison, Colorado.

This was my "project bike" for 2013-2014. While it looked to be in fine condition when purchased the fact remains it is a 30+ year old motorcycle that appears to have received limited maintenance and may not even have received the standard 600 mile (1000 km) service check.

A three-owner survivor, the GS425 appeared to be nearly 100% complete and essentially "unmolested" when purchased. The tail section even contained the original owner's manual, warranty certificate stamped with the original dealer's name and address, vehicle registration cards plus other documentation.

As with many of the late 1970's to early 1980's Suzuki models, the GS425 has attractive, nicely-integrated styling features with colors being exceptionally well chosen and controlled throughout.

I completed a comprehensive maintenance and rehabilitation effort consisting of, but not limited to:

• Complete electrical system checkout and switch cleaning
• Check/set engine valve clearances
• Replace both tires as they appear to be originals
• Replace drive chain
• Replace air filter element
• Replace battery
• Replace regulator/rectifier, a known Suzuki GS-series weakness
• Replace intake manifold sealing O-rings
• Comprehensive carburetor cleaning and overhaul
• Oil and filter change
• Lubricate steering stem bearings
• Lubricate swingarm bearings
• Other lubrication such as control cables and levers, side and center stands, etc.
• Comprehensive front-to-back cleaning and detailing
• Hydraulic front brake overhaul and pad replacement
• Speedometer and tachometer cable lubrication
• Check rear wheel alignment

For pictures from my rehabilitation effort I invite you to visit my GS425E Project Bike Photo Page. Over 100 photos are available, all selectable via thumbnail images.

I recently completed this project and all photos on this page show the bike in its current condition after my rehab effort. After considerable effort with the carburetors and eventually purchasing, rebuilding and installing a replacement carburetor set, the GS425 is performing flawlessly and is a pleasure to ride. It will eventually transfer to its next owner in the condition pictured.

This 6 minute, HD-quality video features a ride on Colorado's Squaw Pass road. The colors of autumn are great on this ride!

Recorded on 2014-09-18 (September 18, 2014).

This 7 minute, HD-quality video features a ride on Colorado Route 103 to Echo Lake. Join me for a fine ride with great scenery!

Recorded on 2014-08-11 (August 11, 2014).

Here is the GS425E with another, smaller GS model that is seldom seen today, a 1981 Suzuki GS250T:

The photos below are from various rides on the GS425E.

A one-year-only model, the GS425 was preceded by the nearly identical GS400.