rare 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo Commands Premium at Auction
A pristine 1983 Suzuki XN85 turbo – a landmark motorcycle representing a brief but influential foray into forced induction – recently sold at auction for an undisclosed sum,highlighting the growing collector interest in thes historically meaningful machines. The sale, conducted by Iconic Motorbike Auctions, featured a unit with just 4,395 miles (7,000 km) and exceptional condition.
The XN85 arrived in 1983 as the first series production motorcycle with a 16-inch front wheel and Suzuki’s Full Floater rear mono-shock suspension. Based on the GS650 platform, its 673cc inline four-cylinder engine was boosted by a turbocharger, delivering a claimed 85 horsepower – hence the “85” in its name.The model was only offered for a single year, making it exceptionally rare, particularly outside of regions like the Canary Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla where an earlier Japanese motorcycle import ban didn’t apply. In the United States, the XN85 originally retailed for $4,700 (approximately €4,300 in 1983).
Beyond its technological innovations, the XN85 is notable for its styling, penned by Hans Muth – the designer also responsible for the iconic Suzuki Katana. The auctioned unit’s combination of rarity, condition, and aesthetic lineage contributed to its desirability among collectors. The XN85 represents a pivotal moment in motorcycle history,demonstrating the potential – and challenges – of turbocharging in the motorcycle world.
