New guy-dumb questions? Or is that dumb guy-new questions?

[DFGS1100]

Hey there.
I've been lurking a bit, tossing around the idea of getting a Bandit 1200. I've had quite a few bikes over the years, mostly sport bikes, but a stand-out favourite was an '83 GS1100E (believe it or not!)  It certainly didn't handle the best, and wasn't the fastest, but there was something about the "grunt" that thing had, and the amazing comfort...
Anyway, haven't had a bike for a couple of years, and got to thinking about another big Suzi. Getting too old and decrepit to fold myself onto a GSXR or Hayabusa, and the Bandit looks like the perfect bike for me. Certainly can't beat the price, either! (Unfortunately, I really like the looks of the late 90's versions much better than the new ones!)
Anyway, on to the dumb questions (Oh Lordy, I hope I don't end being sorry for asking!). I've noticed a lot of abbreviations, like B12, G2, etc. Being the unbelievable gifted deductive reasoner that I am, I've figured out that B12, B4, et al, are Bandit 1200, Bandit 400, blah, blah.
But what's "G2", "G1"?
Anything I should know or be wary of with a B12, new or used?
Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks-Daniel

[PeteSC]

G1=Generation '1'.   The '97-'00 1200, '96-99, 600.
  G2=newer than the above...

  Some 2001 1200s had oil usage problems.   SInce this is beyond the range of the style you like, (Up to 2000 for the 1200) you shouldn't have to worry about it.
  With the earlier 1200's, there's really no problem areas.
  It's still pretty easy to find a low mileage, clean 97-99 1200.  A lot of people buy them, and don't put a lot of miles on.
   YOu should be able to find a virginal older 1200, with low miles, in the $3-4000 range...........

[flip]

Daniel, I picked up a used 600 Bandit a couple of years ago after being away from bikes for a dozen years. My previous bike was an '82 GS1100E that I bought new. To me, they have a similar feel but the Bandit makes the old 1100 feel like the frame was made of rubber. I like everything about my little Bandit better than the GS except the engine. If I could have sprung for a 1200 when I bought mine, I doubt I would if I would ever pick up another Cycle Trader to look for a good deal that my wife won't let me buy. If you liked the GS1100, I think you will love the 1200 Bandit.

[Red01]

G1=Generation '1'.   The '97-'00 1200, '96-99, 600.
  G2=newer than the above...

G3 = 2005 - up 650 (2005 600's are still G2 though), 2006 1200

 Some 2001 1200s had oil usage problems.

So did some early to mid-run 2002's.

If you don't like the 2G body style, there's always the 2G nakeds - that would make the transition from the GS11 seamless.