1979 gs850 project questions.

[RogerW]

I am going to look at a project, the guy thinks the frame may be a 1984 but admits he knows nothing about bikes. Comes with a spare motor and all parts to put it back together (hopefully). Both motors have kickers and the vm carbs. My question is, will a 79 motor fit in the 84 frame ( if that is what it is)? Thanks Roger

[Rich82GS750TZ]

I believe 850 production ended with the 83 model year. If the frame in question still has the foil sticker on the headstock, year and month of production should be on it.

[Burque73]

I believe 850 production ended with the 83 model year. If the frame in question still has the foil sticker on the headstock, year and month of production should be on it.

I saw a black '85 somewhere overseas. They continued cranking them out at least through 1984, in other markets.

Here's a walk around video of an '85. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sYP03cjJrY

[mattd1205]

There’s a chart from suzuki floating around that gives the year according to the serial numbers. As mentioned earlier the foil sticker if present will give you the month and year the frame was made. Another thing to keep in mind is the pre-1981 frames had 11 digit vins but anything after 1981 will have 17 when they were standardized for all vehicles sold in North America.

[Burque73]

I am going to look at a project, the guy thinks the frame may be a 1984 but admits he knows nothing about bikes. Comes with a spare motor and all parts to put it back together (hopefully). Both motors have kickers and the vm carbs. My question is, will a 79 motor fit in the 84 frame ( if that is what it is)? Thanks Roger

I like your user name, My middle initial is W as well. Ever done a google search for your exact name? It's a bit unnerving to know how many people have the exact same name.


In regards to your engine/ frame issue, I was comparing the frames for other reasons and noticed some differences that may throw a wrench in your gears here.

The lower engine mount tabs are turned toward the outside of the frame on the '79 https://www.partshark.com/oemparts/a...d8b4e477/frame

And on the later models, '83 in this case, the mounting tab is turned in. https://www.partshark.com/oemparts/a...d8b4e5da/frame

Maybe it's as simple as using a couple of spacers since the old engine case is apparently wider on the bottom? I just can't say. Also, the triangular plates, #'s 2 and 9, on the fiche have different part numbers too.

[RogerW]

Thanks for all the info. I knew the gs750 cases were wider with the kicker but was unsure about the 850. Hopefully the frame is also 79. Thanks again Roger

[RogerW]

I passed on the bike. Back part of the frame was cut off behind the shocks. He wanted way to much money for what was there. Thanks to all who replied. Roger

[rphillips]

You Never know what's there till you see it, just a fact of life.