The Suzuki Katana is one of the most recognisable motorcycles of the early 1980s; a design that still turns heads more than four decades on.
For owners keeping these machines on the road, however, finding quality components is becoming increasingly difficult.
British motorcycle control specialist, Venhill, has taken the pain out of sourcing one particular part; adding replacement clutch cables for the GSX 400 F and the GS 650 G, E, GT and GL variants.
The engineering challenge lay in the Katana’s rather distinctive approach to clutch adjustment. Rather than the conventional barrel-and-screw arrangement used on most machines of the period, these models used an M5x0.80 female adjuster stem pressed onto the inner wire, combined with a loose barrel nipple riding on an adjustable screw; a system designed to give the rider precise control over the clutch biting point.
Replicating this accurately required a set of purpose-made components, all of which Venhill have now produced. The new cables are fully compatible with the detachable components on the original OEM cable, so the fitment process is straightforward.
Beyond the unique fittings, the cables are made to Venhill’s proven premium specification. The inner wire is marine-grade stainless steel, chosen for its resistance to corrosion and its low stretch characteristics. A PTFE (Teflon) liner runs the full length of the inner, reducing friction for a lighter, smoother clutch action and eliminating the need for regular cable lubrication. The nipples are also bird-caged: a process allowing the solder to penetrate the weave of the cable fully, creating a significantly stronger bond.
The result is a clutch cable that is not only available — which for many Katana owners will be the most important point — but better than the original.
Replacement cables are available for the following model variants:
- Suzuki GSX 400 F (1981–1983) — Neutral Bars
- Suzuki GSX 400 F (1981–1983) — Flat Bars
- Suzuki GS 650 G Katana (X–Z) (1981–1982) & GS 650 GT (X–D) (1981–1983) — Flat Bars
- Suzuki GS 650 GL (X–D) (1981–1983)
- Suzuki GS 650 E (X-Z) 1981-1982, GS 650 G (X-D) 1981-1983 & GS 650 GT (X-D) 1981-1983 Neutral Bars
RRP £31.38 including VAT per cable. Colour options are available; as is extra length for custom handlebar set-ups.
Find them and view the full fitment list on the Venhill website at www.venhill.co.uk.
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For more aftermarket news check out our dedicated page Venhill Latest News
To order Venhill cables or hoses, with or without additional length, visit www.venhill.co.uk
Who are Venhill Engineering
Venhill Engineering is a British manufacturer established in 1970 that specializes in high-quality control cables, hydraulic hoses, and brake lines for motorcycles, quad bikes, karts, and cars. Based in Dorking, UK, they are known for their “Powerhose” brand of hydraulic lines, which are tested to 1,500 psi.
Facebook: @VenhillUK
Instagram: @venhillengineering
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