The Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle that was produced from 1972 to 1977. It was a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast and stylish machine. The GT550 was powered by a 552 cc two-stroke engine that produced 50 horsepower. It had a top speed of 115 mph and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The GT550 was also known for its handling and braking. It had a lightweight frame and a suspension system that provided a smooth ride. The brakes were powerful and progressive, making the GT550 a safe and predictable motorcycle to ride.
The Suzuki GT550 is a significant motorcycle in the history of motorcycling. It was one of the first Japanese motorcycles to be exported to the United States in large numbers. It helped to popularize the two-stroke engine and set the standard for performance and handling for future generations of motorcycles.
Suzuki GT550
The Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle that is renowned for its performance, handling, and style. Here are 10 key aspects that highlight the significance of the GT550:
- Two-stroke engine
- 552 cc displacement
- 50 horsepower
- Top speed of 115 mph
- 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds
- Lightweight frame
- Smooth suspension
- Powerful brakes
- Stylish design
- Historical significance
The Suzuki GT550 was one of the first Japanese motorcycles to be exported to the United States in large numbers. It helped to popularize the two-stroke engine and set the standard for performance and handling for future generations of motorcycles. Today, the GT550 is a sought-after classic motorcycle by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Two-stroke engine
The Suzuki GT550 is powered by a two-stroke engine, which is a type of internal combustion engine that operates with a two-stroke cycle. This means that the engine completes one power cycle in two strokes of the piston, compared to four strokes in a four-stroke engine. Two-stroke engines are generally lighter and more powerful than four-stroke engines, but they also produce more emissions.
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Power
Two-stroke engines are more powerful than four-stroke engines of the same displacement. This is because two-stroke engines produce power every other stroke of the piston, while four-stroke engines only produce power every fourth stroke. -
Weight
Two-stroke engines are lighter than four-stroke engines because they have fewer moving parts. This makes them ideal for use in motorcycles and other vehicles where weight is a concern. -
Emissions
Two-stroke engines produce more emissions than four-stroke engines. This is because two-stroke engines do not have a dedicated exhaust stroke, so some of the fuel-air mixture is lost out the exhaust port.
Overall, the two-stroke engine is a powerful and lightweight engine that is well-suited for use in motorcycles. However, it is important to be aware of the increased emissions that come with this type of engine.
552 cc displacement
The Suzuki GT550 has a 552 cc displacement, which refers to the volume of air and fuel that the engine can move in one revolution. This is an important specification for motorcycles, as it determines the power and torque that the engine can produce.
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Power
Displacement is directly related to power. The larger the displacement, the more power the engine can produce. This is because a larger displacement means that more air and fuel can be moved through the engine, which results in more power. -
Torque
Displacement also affects torque. Torque is a measure of the engine’s ability to turn a crankshaft. A larger displacement engine will have more torque, which means that it can accelerate more quickly and pull heavier loads. -
Fuel efficiency
Displacement can also affect fuel efficiency. A larger displacement engine will generally use more fuel than a smaller displacement engine. This is because a larger displacement engine has to move more air and fuel to produce the same amount of power. -
Emissions
Displacement can also affect emissions. A larger displacement engine will generally produce more emissions than a smaller displacement engine. This is because a larger displacement engine has to burn more fuel to produce the same amount of power.
Overall, the 552 cc displacement of the Suzuki GT550 gives it a good balance of power, torque, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
50 horsepower
The Suzuki GT550 is powered by a 50 horsepower engine, which is a significant amount of power for a motorcycle of its size. This power gives the GT550 excellent acceleration and top speed, making it a thrilling and exciting motorcycle to ride.
The 50 horsepower engine is also very reliable and durable, making it a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that they can depend on. The GT550 is also relatively fuel-efficient, making it a good choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is economical to operate.
Overall, the 50 horsepower engine is a key component of the Suzuki GT550, giving it the performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency that make it a popular choice for riders.
Top speed of 115 mph
The Suzuki GT550 has a top speed of 115 mph, which is an impressive speed for a motorcycle of its era. This top speed is due to a combination of factors, including the GT550’s powerful engine, lightweight frame, and aerodynamic design.
The GT550’s 552 cc two-stroke engine produces 50 horsepower, which gives the motorcycle plenty of power to reach its top speed. The GT550’s lightweight frame also contributes to its high top speed, as it reduces the amount of drag that the motorcycle experiences. Finally, the GT550’s aerodynamic design helps to reduce wind resistance, which also contributes to its high top speed.
The GT550’s top speed of 115 mph makes it a very fast motorcycle, even by today’s standards. This top speed makes the GT550 a popular choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is both fast and stylish.
0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds
The Suzuki GT550’s ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds is a testament to its impressive performance capabilities. This rapid acceleration is due to a combination of factors, including its powerful engine, lightweight frame, and efficient aerodynamics.
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Engine Power
The GT550’s 552 cc two-stroke engine produces 50 horsepower, which gives the motorcycle plenty of power to accelerate quickly. The two-stroke design also contributes to the GT550’s rapid acceleration, as it allows for a more efficient power delivery than a four-stroke engine. -
Lightweight Frame
The GT550’s lightweight frame helps to reduce the amount of drag that the motorcycle experiences, which contributes to its rapid acceleration. The frame is made of a lightweight alloy, which helps to keep the overall weight of the motorcycle down. -
Efficient Aerodynamics
The GT550’s aerodynamic design helps to reduce wind resistance, which also contributes to its rapid acceleration. The motorcycle’s sleek lines and fairings help to reduce drag, allowing the GT550 to accelerate more quickly. -
Rider Skill
While the GT550’s performance capabilities are impressive, it is important to note that rider skill also plays a role in achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Riders who are experienced in performance riding can use the GT550’s capabilities to their full potential.
Overall, the Suzuki GT550’s ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds is a result of its powerful engine, lightweight frame, efficient aerodynamics, and rider skill. This rapid acceleration makes the GT550 a thrilling and exciting motorcycle to ride.
Lightweight frame
The Suzuki GT550’s lightweight frame is a key factor in its impressive performance and handling. The frame is made of a lightweight alloy, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the motorcycle. This reduction in weight makes the GT550 more agile and easier to maneuver, both on the street and on the track.
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Improved acceleration
A lighter frame means that the GT550 has less mass to accelerate, which results in improved acceleration. The GT550 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest motorcycles in its class. -
Enhanced handling
A lighter frame also makes the GT550 easier to handle, especially in corners. The GT550’s lightweight frame allows it to change direction quickly and easily, making it a joy to ride on winding roads. -
Increased top speed
A lighter frame also reduces drag, which results in an increased top speed. The GT550 has a top speed of 115 mph, which is impressive for a motorcycle of its era. -
Improved fuel efficiency
A lighter frame also improves fuel efficiency. The GT550 gets an impressive 50 mpg, which is excellent for a performance motorcycle.
Overall, the Suzuki GT550’s lightweight frame is a key factor in its impressive performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. The GT550 is a lightweight, agile, and fuel-efficient motorcycle that is a pleasure to ride.
Smooth suspension
The Suzuki GT550 is renowned for its smooth suspension, a crucial aspect of its overall performance and handling. The suspension system plays a vital role in providing a comfortable and controlled ride, especially when navigating uneven road surfaces or tackling corners with precision.
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Shock absorption
The GT550’s suspension system effectively absorbs road imperfections, such as bumps and potholes, minimizing the impact transferred to the rider. This enhances comfort, reduces fatigue, and allows for better control, even on challenging terrain. -
Stability and handling
A well-tuned suspension system contributes to the stability and handling of the GT550. It helps keep the tires planted firmly on the ground, providing optimal grip and traction during cornering and acceleration. This inspires confidence in the rider and allows for precise handling. -
Adjustability
The GT550’s suspension system offers adjustability, enabling riders to fine-tune the suspension settings to suit their weight, riding style, and road conditions. This customization allows for a personalized riding experience and optimizes the performance of the motorcycle. -
Reliability and durability
The components used in the GT550’s suspension system are known for their reliability and durability. They can withstand the rigors of regular use and provide consistent performance over the long term, ensuring a consistently smooth and controlled ride.
In summary, the smooth suspension of the Suzuki GT550 contributes significantly to its reputation as a well-handling and comfortable motorcycle. It enhances the riding experience, inspires confidence, and provides optimal performance in various riding conditions.
Powerful brakes
The Suzuki GT550 is renowned for its powerful brakes, which play a crucial role in enhancing the overall safety and performance of the motorcycle. The braking system is engineered to provide precise control, responsiveness, and reliable stopping power, ensuring the rider’s confidence and peace of mind.
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Responsive and precise
The GT550’s brakes offer excellent responsiveness and precision. The brake levers provide a progressive feel, allowing the rider to modulate the braking force with great accuracy. This level of control enhances the rider’s ability to navigate traffic, manage corner entries and exits, and come to a controlled stop in various riding conditions.
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Strong stopping power
The braking system of the GT550 delivers impressive stopping power. The front and rear disc brakes work in conjunction to provide ample stopping force, ensuring that the motorcycle can be brought to a halt quickly and efficiently. This strong stopping power inspires confidence in the rider, especially when faced with unexpected situations or emergency maneuvers.
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Fade resistance
The GT550’s brakes are designed to resist fade, even under repeated or prolonged use. The fade-resistant components ensure that the braking performance remains consistent and reliable, even during aggressive riding or in demanding conditions.
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Reliability and durability
The components used in the GT550’s braking system are known for their reliability and durability. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that the brakes can withstand the rigors of regular use and provide consistent performance over the long term.
In conclusion, the powerful brakes of the Suzuki GT550 are a key component of its overall performance and safety. Their responsiveness, strong stopping power, fade resistance, and reliability contribute to an enhanced riding experience, giving riders the confidence and control they need to navigate the roads with precision.
Stylish design
The Suzuki GT550 is renowned for its stylish design, which played a significant role in its popularity and enduring appeal. The design of the GT550 was a departure from the more traditional motorcycle designs of the time, featuring a sleek and sporty aesthetic that captured the imagination of riders.
One of the key elements of the GT550’s stylish design was its aerodynamic fairing. The fairing was designed to reduce drag and improve the motorcycle’s top speed, but it also gave the GT550 a distinctive and futuristic look. The fairing was complemented by a sleek fuel tank and a sculpted tail section, which further enhanced the GT550’s sporty appearance.
The GT550’s stylish design was not just about aesthetics, however. The fairing also improved the motorcycle’s handling and stability, making it a more enjoyable and safer ride. The aerodynamic design reduced wind resistance, which made the GT550 more stable at high speeds. The fairing also helped to protect the rider from the wind and rain, making it a more comfortable motorcycle to ride in all weather conditions.
The Suzuki GT550’s stylish design is still admired today, and the motorcycle remains a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts. The GT550’s design is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Suzuki’s engineers, and it continues to inspire motorcycle designers to this day.
Historical significance
The Suzuki GT550 holds historical significance as one of the first Japanese motorcycles to be exported to the United States in large numbers. Its introduction in 1972 marked a turning point in the global motorcycle market, as Japanese manufacturers began to challenge the dominance of European and American brands.
The GT550’s success was due in part to its combination of performance, style, and affordability. It was one of the first motorcycles to feature a two-stroke engine, which was more powerful and lighter than the four-stroke engines that were common at the time. The GT550 also had a sleek and sporty design, which appealed to a younger generation of riders.
The GT550’s impact on the motorcycle market was significant. It helped to popularize the two-stroke engine and set the standard for performance and handling for future generations of motorcycles. It also helped to make Japanese motorcycles more popular in the United States, and it paved the way for the success of other Japanese brands such as Honda and Yamaha.
Today, the Suzuki GT550 is considered a classic motorcycle. It is prized by collectors and enthusiasts for its historical significance, its performance, and its stylish design.
Suzuki GT550
The Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle with a rich history and a passionate following. If you’re considering buying a GT550 or simply want to learn more about this iconic machine, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Question 1: What is the Suzuki GT550?
The Suzuki GT550 is a two-stroke, air-cooled motorcycle that was manufactured by Suzuki from 1972 to 1977. It was one of the first Japanese motorcycles to be exported to the United States in large numbers, and it quickly became a popular choice for riders who wanted a fast, stylish, and affordable motorcycle.
Question 2: What is the engine size of the Suzuki GT550?
The Suzuki GT550 has a 552 cc two-stroke engine.
Question 3: How much horsepower does the Suzuki GT550 have?
The Suzuki GT550 produces 50 horsepower at 7,500 rpm.
Question 4: What is the top speed of the Suzuki GT550?
The Suzuki GT550 has a top speed of 115 mph.
Question 5: What are the dimensions of the Suzuki GT550?
The Suzuki GT550 is 83.5 inches long, 30.7 inches wide, and 44.5 inches high. It has a wheelbase of 57.9 inches and a ground clearance of 5.5 inches.
Question 6: How much does the Suzuki GT550 weigh?
The Suzuki GT550 weighs 427 pounds dry.
In summary, the Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle that offers a unique combination of performance, style, and affordability. It is a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For more information on the Suzuki GT550, please refer to the following article sections:
Suzuki GT550 Tips
The Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle that requires proper care and maintenance to keep it running in top condition. Here are five essential tips to help you get the most out of your GT550:
Tip 1: Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your GT550 running smoothly. This includes regular oil changes, filter changes, and tune-ups. It is also important to check the tire pressure, brake pads, and chain tension regularly.
Tip 2: Use high-quality parts
When it comes to parts for your GT550, it is important to use high-quality components. This will help to ensure that your motorcycle performs well and lasts for many years to come. Avoid using cheap or aftermarket parts, as these can lead to problems down the road.
Tip 3: Store your motorcycle properly
If you are not going to be riding your GT550 for an extended period of time, it is important to store it properly. This means storing it in a dry, well-ventilated area. You should also disconnect the battery and drain the fuel tank.
Tip 4: Ride your motorcycle regularly
The best way to keep your GT550 in good condition is to ride it regularly. This will help to keep the engine and other components lubricated and prevent them from seizing up.
Tip 5: Get professional help when needed
If you are not comfortable performing maintenance on your GT550 yourself, it is important to get professional help. A qualified mechanic can help you to keep your motorcycle in top condition and identify and fix any problems that may arise.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your Suzuki GT550 running smoothly for many years to come.
Conclusion
The Suzuki GT550 is a classic motorcycle that offers a unique combination of performance, style, and affordability. It is a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The GT550’s two-stroke engine provides plenty of power and torque, while its lightweight frame and aerodynamic design make it a pleasure to ride. The GT550 is also known for its reliable and durable construction.
If you are looking for a classic motorcycle that is fun to ride and easy to maintain, the Suzuki GT550 is a great option. It is a motorcycle that will surely bring you many years of enjoyment.