1979 Suzuki GS1000E
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1979 SUZUKI GS1000E
Rare Matching Numbers Original Paint Beauty
A Museum-Quality Example of the Original Superbike
If you're looking at this motorcycle, you already know exactly what it is.
The 1979 Suzuki GS1000E isn't just another vintage Japanese motorcycle—it's one of the most important superbikes ever built. This was the machine that established Suzuki as a dominant force in superbike racing and became the foundation for the legendary GSX-R dynasty that followed.
Pops Yoshimura and his team used the GS1000 platform to dominate AMA Superbike competition, endurance racing, and the prestigious Suzuka 8-Hour. Riders like Wes Cooley helped cement the GS1000's reputation as one of the greatest performance motorcycles of the era.
Today, finding an original GS1000E is difficult.
Finding one this original, this well-preserved, and this thoroughly recommissioned is nearly impossible.
The Finest GS1000E We've Offered
This motorcycle came from a close friend and longtime collector in upstate New York who owned three exceptional GS1000s. Included in the collection were a GS1000C and another GS1000E with higher mileage.
We intentionally saved the best motorcycle for last.
With only 17,800 original miles, matching numbers, original paint, original exhaust system, original seat, original gauges, original controls, and virtually every factory component intact, this is easily one of the finest GS1000Es we've had the privilege to own.
The condition speaks for itself.
The aluminum engine cases are beautiful. The original paint retains outstanding luster. The chrome is exceptional. The factory chain guard still wears its original decals. The turn signals, levers, engine covers, pegs, side covers, and bodywork show no evidence of abuse, crashes, or neglect.
This motorcycle has clearly lived a pampered life.
The Original Superbike
In 1979, the GS1000E represented the cutting edge of motorcycle performance:
-
997cc DOHC inline-four engine
-
Four Mikuni carburetors
-
Triple-disc braking system
-
Air-assisted front forks
-
Lightweight chassis
-
Cast alloy wheels
-
135 MPH top speed
-
Quarter-mile performance under 12 seconds
Unlike the heavier Kawasaki KZ1000, Yamaha XS1100, or Honda CBX, the GS1000 combined big horsepower with a relatively lightweight chassis and exceptional handling.
The result was a motorcycle that could dominate racetracks, endurance events, canyon roads, and long-distance touring all at the same time.
Many enthusiasts consider the GS1000 bottom end one of the most durable four-cylinder engine designs of the entire era.
They're virtually bulletproof.
Extensive Kaplan Cycles Recommissioning
When the bike arrived, we were told it "just needed a carb cleaning."
Sixty hours of $150 Per Hour shop labor and $9,000 later, it meets Kaplan Cycles Museum Quality standards.
As with every vintage motorcycle we sell, we went through this GS1000E from front to back and addressed every detail necessary to make it a dependable daily rider, collector piece, or a museum display motorcycle.
Fully Serviced, Tuned & Detailed to Perfection;l
-
Fuel tank drained and inspected (perfect)
-
Tank cleaned
-
Filled with VP Racing 94-octane ethanol-free fuel
-
Petcock rebuilt
-
Carburetors removed and completely disassembled
-
Complete carburetor rebuild performed
-
New gaskets and O-rings installed
-
New intake manifold O-rings installed
-
New float needles installed
-
Float heights adjusted
-
Fuel and air circuits calibrated
-
New air filter installed
-
Carburetors synchronized and tuned
-
Fresh Spectro 10W40 oil & new oil filter installed
-
The motorcycle starts instantly, idles smoothly, and runs flawlessly throughout the RPM range.
No smoke.
No unusual noises.
No vibration issues.
Just smooth, effortless power.
The interior of the fuel tank is remarkable—one of the cleanest original GS1000 tanks we've seen.
Dyno S electronic ignition installed
-
New 3-ohm coils installed
-
New plug wires installed
-
Four new NGK BR8ES spark plugs installed
The electronic ignition is the best reliability upgrade available while maintaining the motorcycle's original appearance.
-
The motorcycle starts instantly, idles smoothly, and runs flawlessly throughout the RPM range.
No smoke.
No unusual noises.
No vibration issues.
Just smooth, effortless power.
Brakes
-
Hydraulic Brake system flushed
-
Front & Rear brake calipers rebuilt with new seals
-
Master cylinders serviced
-
Brake systems bled with fresh Motorex brake fluid
-
Brake calipers refinished & repainted
Wheels & Tires
-
New Bridgestone Battlax front tire installed
-
New Bridgestone Battlax rear tire installed
-
Wheels balanced
-
Front and rear rims professionally detailed and polished
The tires still have the original molding nibs on them.
Cosmetic Restoration & Detailing
The motorcycle then received our museum-quality detailing process:
-
Complete steam cleaning
-
Hand washing
-
Professional polishing
-
Engine cases polished
-
Front forks polished
-
Wheels refinished and detailed
-
Chrome polished throughout
-
Rear shocks cleaned and detailed
-
New engine decals installed
-
New side cover emblems installed
-
Kickstand refinished
-
Center stand refinished
-
Footpeg mounts refinished
-
Underside of seat detailed
-
Battery tender lead installed
-
New battery installed
The presentation, shine, and beauty of this original classic motorcycle is exceptional.
A Rare Survivor
Most GS1000s suffered one of two fates:
-
Modified beyond recognition with headers, pod filters, drag bars, and performance parts.
-
Ridden hard and worn out.
This motorcycle escaped both.
The original paint remains stunning.
The original exhaust system is intact.
The bodywork is beautiful.
The seat is original.
The controls are original.
The gauges are original.
The fit and finish throughout the motorcycle are extraordinary.
Even the often-cracked passenger grab rail area remains intact and undamaged.
Collectors understand how uncommon that is.
Ready for Any Collection
Whether your goal is:
-
AMCA competition
-
Vintage Japanese motorcycle collection
-
Museum display
-
Weekend touring
-
Vintage superbike events
-
Concours shows
This GS1000E is ready.
No excuses.
No deferred maintenance.
No hidden surprises.
Just one of the finest surviving examples of Suzuki's legendary original superbike.
Final Thoughts
I've ridden a lot of GS1000s over the years, and this one reminds me exactly why these motorcycles became legends.
It's smooth.
It's comfortable.
It's incredibly fast for its era.
The seating position is far more relaxed than later GSX-R models, making it a motorcycle you can actually enjoy for hours at a time.
Most importantly, it represents a pivotal moment in motorcycling history—the moment Suzuki figured out the formula:
Light weight.
Big horsepower.
Excellent handling.
Bulletproof reliability.
That's what made the GS1000 famous.
And that's exactly why collectors continue to crave the best surviving examples.
If you've been waiting for a truly exceptional GS1000E, this may be the opportunity you've been looking for.
Good luck bidding. or Call Jr's Cell and Buy it Now! 860-471-0192
Available for worldwide shipping.
Financing available.
Inspection welcome.
Sold by Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum.
God Bless America.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1979 SUZUKI GS1000E
Rare Matching Numbers Original Paint Beauty
A Museum-Quality Example of the Original Superbike
If you're looking at this motorcycle, you already know exactly what it is.
The 1979 Suzuki GS1000E isn't just another vintage Japanese motorcycle—it's one of the most important superbikes ever built. This was the machine that established Suzuki as a dominant force in superbike racing and became the foundation for the legendary GSX-R dynasty that followed.
Pops Yoshimura and his team used the GS1000 platform to dominate AMA Superbike competition, endurance racing, and the prestigious Suzuka 8-Hour. Riders like Wes Cooley helped cement the GS1000's reputation as one of the greatest performance motorcycles of the era.
Today, finding an original GS1000E is difficult.
Finding one this original, this well-preserved, and this thoroughly recommissioned is nearly impossible.
The Finest GS1000E We've Offered
This motorcycle came from a close friend and longtime collector in upstate New York who owned three exceptional GS1000s. Included in the collection were a GS1000C and another GS1000E with higher mileage.
We intentionally saved the best motorcycle for last.
With only 17,800 original miles, matching numbers, original paint, original exhaust system, original seat, original gauges, original controls, and virtually every factory component intact, this is easily one of the finest GS1000Es we've had the privilege to own.
The condition speaks for itself.
The aluminum engine cases are beautiful. The original paint retains outstanding luster. The chrome is exceptional. The factory chain guard still wears its original decals. The turn signals, levers, engine covers, pegs, side covers, and bodywork show no evidence of abuse, crashes, or neglect.
This motorcycle has clearly lived a pampered life.
The Original Superbike
In 1979, the GS1000E represented the cutting edge of motorcycle performance:
-
997cc DOHC inline-four engine
-
Four Mikuni carburetors
-
Triple-disc braking system
-
Air-assisted front forks
-
Lightweight chassis
-
Cast alloy wheels
-
135 MPH top speed
-
Quarter-mile performance under 12 seconds
Unlike the heavier Kawasaki KZ1000, Yamaha XS1100, or Honda CBX, the GS1000 combined big horsepower with a relatively lightweight chassis and exceptional handling.
The result was a motorcycle that could dominate racetracks, endurance events, canyon roads, and long-distance touring all at the same time.
Many enthusiasts consider the GS1000 bottom end one of the most durable four-cylinder engine designs of the entire era.
They're virtually bulletproof.
Extensive Kaplan Cycles Recommissioning
When the bike arrived, we were told it "just needed a carb cleaning."
Sixty hours of $150 Per Hour shop labor and $9,000 later, it meets Kaplan Cycles Museum Quality standards.
As with every vintage motorcycle we sell, we went through this GS1000E from front to back and addressed every detail necessary to make it a dependable daily rider, collector piece, or a museum display motorcycle.
Fully Serviced, Tuned & Detailed to Perfection;l
-
Fuel tank drained and inspected (perfect)
-
Tank cleaned
-
Filled with VP Racing 94-octane ethanol-free fuel
-
Petcock rebuilt
-
Carburetors removed and completely disassembled
-
Complete carburetor rebuild performed
-
New gaskets and O-rings installed
-
New intake manifold O-rings installed
-
New float needles installed
-
Float heights adjusted
-
Fuel and air circuits calibrated
-
New air filter installed
-
Carburetors synchronized and tuned
-
Fresh Spectro 10W40 oil & new oil filter installed
-
The motorcycle starts instantly, idles smoothly, and runs flawlessly throughout the RPM range.
No smoke.
No unusual noises.
No vibration issues.
Just smooth, effortless power.
The interior of the fuel tank is remarkable—one of the cleanest original GS1000 tanks we've seen.
Dyno S electronic ignition installed
-
New 3-ohm coils installed
-
New plug wires installed
-
Four new NGK BR8ES spark plugs installed
The electronic ignition is the best reliability upgrade available while maintaining the motorcycle's original appearance.
-
The motorcycle starts instantly, idles smoothly, and runs flawlessly throughout the RPM range.
No smoke.
No unusual noises.
No vibration issues.
Just smooth, effortless power.
Brakes
-
Hydraulic Brake system flushed
-
Front & Rear brake calipers rebuilt with new seals
-
Master cylinders serviced
-
Brake systems bled with fresh Motorex brake fluid
-
Brake calipers refinished & repainted
Wheels & Tires
-
New Bridgestone Battlax front tire installed
-
New Bridgestone Battlax rear tire installed
-
Wheels balanced
-
Front and rear rims professionally detailed and polished
The tires still have the original molding nibs on them.
Cosmetic Restoration & Detailing
The motorcycle then received our museum-quality detailing process:
-
Complete steam cleaning
-
Hand washing
-
Professional polishing
-
Engine cases polished
-
Front forks polished
-
Wheels refinished and detailed
-
Chrome polished throughout
-
Rear shocks cleaned and detailed
-
New engine decals installed
-
New side cover emblems installed
-
Kickstand refinished
-
Center stand refinished
-
Footpeg mounts refinished
-
Underside of seat detailed
-
Battery tender lead installed
-
New battery installed
The presentation, shine, and beauty of this original classic motorcycle is exceptional.
A Rare Survivor
Most GS1000s suffered one of two fates:
-
Modified beyond recognition with headers, pod filters, drag bars, and performance parts.
-
Ridden hard and worn out.
This motorcycle escaped both.
The original paint remains stunning.
The original exhaust system is intact.
The bodywork is beautiful.
The seat is original.
The controls are original.
The gauges are original.
The fit and finish throughout the motorcycle are extraordinary.
Even the often-cracked passenger grab rail area remains intact and undamaged.
Collectors understand how uncommon that is.
Ready for Any Collection
Whether your goal is:
-
AMCA competition
-
Vintage Japanese motorcycle collection
-
Museum display
-
Weekend touring
-
Vintage superbike events
-
Concours shows
This GS1000E is ready.
No excuses.
No deferred maintenance.
No hidden surprises.
Just one of the finest surviving examples of Suzuki's legendary original superbike.
Final Thoughts
I've ridden a lot of GS1000s over the years, and this one reminds me exactly why these motorcycles became legends.
It's smooth.
It's comfortable.
It's incredibly fast for its era.
The seating position is far more relaxed than later GSX-R models, making it a motorcycle you can actually enjoy for hours at a time.
Most importantly, it represents a pivotal moment in motorcycling history—the moment Suzuki figured out the formula:
Light weight.
Big horsepower.
Excellent handling.
Bulletproof reliability.
That's what made the GS1000 famous.
And that's exactly why collectors continue to crave the best surviving examples.
If you've been waiting for a truly exceptional GS1000E, this may be the opportunity you've been looking for.
Good luck bidding. or Call Jr's Cell and Buy it Now! 860-471-0192
Available for worldwide shipping.
Financing available.
Inspection welcome.
Sold by Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum.
God Bless America.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
