Suzuki GS 1000 S vs Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster (1981)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Suzuki GS 1000 Sstacks up against the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecSuzuki GS 1000 SHarley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster
Model year19811978
Price
Engine997 cc997 cc
Horsepower90 hp57 hp
Fuel capacity5.3 L2.4 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed4-speed
Front brakesDual discDual disc
Rear brakesSingle discSingle disc
Tires3.50-19 / 4.25/85-18 3.75-19 / 4.25-18

Suzuki GS 1000 S vs Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster — which should you buy?

Picking between the Suzuki GS 1000 S and the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Suzuki GS 1000 S brings 90 hp, while the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster counters with 57 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: