GSX-R750R LE 1986
The Racing Limited Edition model is considered by many as the start of the modern era of fast and light homologated sports bikes. less than 500 were manufactured worldwide including 199 for the US, 20 for Canada and 150 for the Japanese market.
The retail price was 40% more expensive than the standard (G) model, making it the most expensive Japanese sport-bike money could buy at the time.
Unique items that differentiate this model from the standard model include a dry clutch system, close-ratio 6 speed transmission, 29mm flat-slide carbs, 19L steel gas tank, hand-laid fiberglass solo rear section with single racing seat, side bodywork utilizing Dzus quick release fasteners and Limited-Edition graphics.
This Japanese model also comes with the optional factory fitted Yoshimura exhaust system making it an exceptionally rare version of a rare bike.
The Japanese version had red and grey graphics, along with a fuel gauge, headlight kill switch, tinted turn signal lenses, Japanese-spec city lights. The non-Japanese variant came in a red, white and blue livery and did not have the Japan only items.
The distinctive clutch and actuator housing along with the sprocket cover are all made of magnesium for reduced weight. The clutch actuation is uniquely cable operated rather than hydraulic, offering greater feel and lighter weight. Suspension features the 1986 GSX-R1100's electronically controlled 41mm NEAS anti-dive forks, rims, brake callipers & larger 310mm floating discs, specially designed front brake hoses, a unique "3 point" steering damper and broader clip-on handlebars.
A 2.5 cm longer swingarm is fitted with threaded inserts for a racing style paddock stand, and an aluminium-bodied shock absorber with remote gas-charged reservoir. Other features found only on this model include a premium aluminium exhaust hanger, heal guards, chain guard, bar-end weights, adjustable clutch lever, a visually machined top triple clamp and changes to the bodywork to improve cooling.
Key Features and Upgrades
• Performance: The 749cc oil-cooled inline-four produced approximately 105 horsepower at 10,500 RPM, though with a different torque curve than the standard model due to the dry clutch. It is fitted with 29mm Mikuni flat-slide carburettors.
• Dry Clutch: A distinctive, "dry" clutch was a key feature unique to the LE model paired with a magnesium clutch cover and actuator. This was a high-cost upgrade (approximately $2,000 at the time) that helped reduce engine oil weight and provided a characteristic sound. It also has a Close-ratio 6-speed gearbox.
• Suspension/Brakes: Featured 41mm front forks with NEAS (New Electronically-Activated Suspension) anti-dive, an aluminum-bodied remote reservoir shock, and 310mm front brake rotors with dual-opposed piston calipers.
• Structural Differences: The LE utilized a braced, 1-inch longer swingarm for better, more stable handling compared to the standard "slab-side" GSX-R750.
• Appearance: Distinctive features included a hand-laid fiberglass solo tail section, white 18" wheels, and a larger 19l fuel tank.
A GSX-R750 racing-spec model won the 1985 LeMans 24-hour endurance race as well as the 1985 F1 category of the Japanese National Road Race Championships
The original speedo was speed limited for the Japanese market and has been replaced with an almost identical speedo with the original speedo kept and available in excellent condition. Braided brake lines have been fitted with the original brake lines kept and available. The original fuel tap was stiff and has been replaced with a new tap and the original also retained.
This bike is completely original and has not been repainted, rebuild or modified in any way apart the items listed above with all original parts available with the bike. It is an exceptional collector’s item.
Other Items
• Last major service done by Adelaide Motorcycle Centre in May 2022 at 3,296 km
• Carbs recently cleaned and resynchronised
• Sets of each of the 3 carbie jets
• Bits and pieces as spares
• Original Speedo = 9,783 kms, current speedo, 3,834 km, total 13,617 km
It is highly sought after by collectors today, the "Holy Grail" of early GSX-R models.
Currently on SA Historic Registration.
Trade-ins are welcome
finance and insurance can be arranged.
We can ship interstate for reasonable prices
Please note Registration will be cancelled if sold interstate