by Colin Bylund, Editor ATV OnLine
photos and specs provided by Mark Dixon

What happens when you cross a 1987 Suzuki LT500 with a 1989 Suzuki Katana 1100?….You got it….a monster machine. It all started when Mark Dixon found a well used LT500 which he was able to pick up for song. It was a basket case but a worthy platform to build upon. First the bottom end of the frame was cut away and new lower support tubes were fabricated, one being a breakaway so the motor could be easily slid into place. The motor came from an '89, 49 state Suzuki Katana 1100. The power curve in this 1127cc motor was well suited for what Mark had in mind. A set of Keihin 39mm carbs and a trick custom made 1-5/8 inch exhaust system were fitted to the powerplant. Uni filters and Outerwears help keep the sand out and things breathing well. Because of the size of the motor and the mounting position, a custom made aluminum gas tank was required. Laeger provided a 10" swingarm to help hold the front end down. 12 paddle Taller Haulers bolted to a Dura Blue axle help hook it up. To bring things back up to original ride height, P.E.P. modified stock shocks with additional adjustable reservoirs were added. PRM aluminum bumpers grace both the front and the rear. Three 75 Watt Lazer Stars and a lighted Q-wip add enjoyment to frequent night rides. Its all toped off with a custom scalloped seat cover,

So the next time you're at Pismo or Glamis and you see a yellow streak out of the corner of your eye it just may be Mark and his triple bad 140 horsepower QUADZILLA!!

		Spec Sheet Vehicle: 1987 Suzuki LT500 Owner: Mark Dixon Engine: 1989 Katana 1100 140 HP Carb/Intake: Keihin 39 mm Uni Filter Outerwears Exhaust: Custom 1 5/8 inch Suspension: Laeger 10" Swingarm PEP Modified Stock shocks Tires: Mohawk Fronts Taller Hauler Rear Special Modifications: Custom Frame Mods Custom gas tank
	Mark and his favorite past time........	.......sand drags!!
	Mark sends a special thanks to: His buddy Rob for all his help. He could have not done it without him! Ron for all his help. Louise at Bob Wirth Racing Motors for there expertise in motors!! 510-487-3279 Lisa at CT Racing 310-945-2453 Dave at Cycle Salvage Fremont 510-796-3131 Wayne at Performance Engineered Products (PEP) for the shocks 909-590-4111 Laegers Custom Fabrication, for the swingarm 619-749-7402

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