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
| Spec | Suzuki GS 1000 S | Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1981 | 1978 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 997 cc | 997 cc |
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 57 hp |
| Fuel capacity | 5.3 L | 2.4 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 4-speed |
| Front brakes | Dual disc | Dual disc |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Single disc |
| Tires | 3.50-19 / 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:

