Suzuki XN 85D Turbo

An early-release 1983 model, the XN85 was quite different than its two turbo predecessors, the Honda CX500TC Turbo and the Yamaha XJ650LJ Turbo. Whereas they filled a rather vague sport-touring niche the XN was an unapologetic sport bike. It featured the first factory 16-inch front wheel (previously seen only on race bikes), low clip-on handlebars, rearset foot pegs and a single shock rear suspension, Suzuki's first Full Floater -- quite heady stuff back in the early '80s.

For a Turbo the engine was rather tame with boost kicking in around the 5,000 rpm mark. It pulled strongly from that point but always seemed a little too civilized for a bike with TURBO emblazoned so boldly on its fairing.  The XN85's forte was handling - there was simply nothing better at the time. If pushed to its limits the headers would touch down, but few riders were capable of that level of madness.

Yet these stellar credentials took a backseat to Suzuki's own lighter, quicker, and cheaper GS750ES released only months after the XN. The Turbo was quickly forgotten and Suzuki harbors few fond memories for the bike - Suzuki America does everything short of denying the bike's very existence.  Which is a shame cause the XN is a fun-to-ride refined motorcycle that's also proven reliable.

These bikes were at one time as hard to find as people who believe Clinton didn't inhale. But lately "for sale" signs on XNs have been showing up regularly. Therefore a revised value guide to the Suzuki Turbo is in order. We estimate that low-mileage XNs in excellent condition will bring about $3,000 to $4,000 on today's market but still be prepared to pay $7,000 and up for those in showroom condition, if you can find one. For comparison a 1983 GS750ES in worth about $1,500, tops. Interesting.