Few motorcycles can boast of the cult following that the Suzuki GSX-R has. The mighty Gixxer in all its guises has garnered legions of fans over the years. And each of those fans will tell you, with unbridled fervor, why. their The most popular GSX-R model is dominating.
There is a strong case to be made for 1992 Suzuki GSX-R1100Officially designated the GSX-R1100N, it stands out for being the last air-cooled Gixxer, producing 143bhp and sporting Suzuki’s signature ‘tiger stripe’ paint scheme of the early 90s.
This custom ’92 GSX-R1100 by Sébastien Vernaison puts the Gixxer into overdrive mode. With new bodywork, upgraded running gear, a lengthened swingarm, and sharp graphics, it’s as refined as a punch to the cheek, and we’re here for it.
Based in France, Séb builds custom bikes as a side hustle under the moniker Seb Kustom Motorcycle. His latest build is a Honda Hornet with restrained finishing touches. But he took the GSX-R in a completely different direction.
Beneath the aggressive paint job, you’ll find aftermarket bodywork modeled after an older GSX-R1100, courtesy of Narcostrat Composites. The front end is a 1989 replica, while the rear end is a 1987 style. Séb modified both of these parts significantly, fitting them to a 1992 GSX-R without any major changes to the frame.
The GSX-R’s OEM subframe isn’t a pretty thing—but Séb has turned it into a feature here, aligning it perfectly with the lower edges of the fairing and tail. Up top, you’ll find the bike’s original gas tank, wrapped in Stratosphere Composites carbon fiber. A durable racing-style gas cap finishes it off.
A lot of work went into designing the Suzuki’s aggressive new look. Séb filled in one of the fairing’s headlight holes so he could fit the traditional round headlights with smaller square LED projectors. Small Kellermann LED turn signals are hidden inside the fairing’s air intakes.
Handcrafted aluminum covers the mirror mounts—keeping the car clean for shows but allowing Séb to install mirrors in a flash. A custom steel fender sits lower.
A host of upgrades lurk beneath the new bodywork. The front forks, wheels, and Brembo brakes are from the Aprilia RSV Factory. The swingarm is a 2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000 part, but it’s been stretched to an incredible length.
Séb also upgraded the Aprilia forks with new Hyperpro springs and installed a carbon fiber steering damper. The rear shock is a custom unit from Shock Factory and the linkages have also been modified.
The cockpit features custom upper controls, with new clamps, Acerbis ‘quick-pull’ throttle, brake and clutch levers, and Ariete grips. The hydraulic clutch slave cylinder is from Oberon Performance, and the brake discs and pads are from Moto-Master. Other upgrades include braided hoses, new foot controls, and a custom aluminum bracket to mount the clutch slave.
The engine benefits from a K&N air filter and oil breather, with a superb four-into-two exhaust system from West Welding 29. It ends in twin Devil Exhaust mufflers; one exits along the swingarm, while the other protrudes from the tail. A small LED taillight sits to the northwest of the taller muffler, with Kellermann rear turn signals flanking the subframe.
The graphics were done by Fast Lane, set against a glossy dark grey base designed by Séb’s friend Tony. C&R Creation Saddlery did the seat covers, and Stratosphere Composites made the carbon fibre ‘windshield’, chain guard and exhaust trim at the rear. The satin black finish on the frame ties it all together perfectly.
Bold and a little out of control, Séb’s Suzuki GSX-R1100 is an unapologetic tribute to the golden age of superbike design. Dubbed the ‘Street King’, it certainly lives up to its name.
Seb Kustom Motorcycle’s Instagram | Image of FNY Photographer
Thanks Seb West Welding 29, Kellermann, Moto-Master brakes, Ruroc, K&N filters, C&R Saddlery, Matt Racing and Wagner Classic Oil.
