Enter the Slabshot: Custom builder blends Suzuki Slabside with GSX-R1000 to create retro superbike

[MCN]

How is this for a retro special? London bike builder Marc Bell has combined the chunky 1980s look of Suzuki GSX-R Slabsides and Slingshots with the modern motor and chassis of a 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000...

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[Bosco15]

How is this for a retro special? London bike builder Marc Bell has combined the chunky 1980s look of Suzuki GSX-R Slabsides and Slingshots with the modern motor and chassis of a 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000...

Continue reading...

Although a lot of time and effort have gone into his bike, I was saddened by the appropriation of the term "Slab side" or "Slabbie".
I'm sure that many of you have fond memories of the Suzuki range that spawned the true Sports bike era.
The Slabbie was the Genisis of the modern lightweight, GP emulating, road bike, available to everyday boys and girls who wanted to be like their hero of the day.
"The Slabside" was the nickname given to the very first of the marque, due to the large surface area sides, especially on the tail of the bike.
Raw and unrefined, they really were seat of the pants riding.
I remember returning a Gsxr1100 J to the dealer, shaking in my boots, after a test ride. It was just too much bike for me and I opted for the 750.
The Slabbbies bodywork was changed after the first three years for more svelte Tupperware, due to it's ability to catch the crosswind so well.
So I was excited to see a retro Slab sided 1000, only to find some race fairing kit on a brushed frame.
Oh Well. That's modern advertising for you, hey?

 

[Bosco15]

A real Slabside.