Suzuki GT750 (1971) — The Water-Cooled Two-Stroke Masterpiece
The Suzuki GT750 was Suzuki's first liquid-cooled production motorcycle and one of the most sophisticated two-strokes of its era. It established Suzuki as a serious competitor in the performance market.
Historical Significance
Before the GT750, two-stroke motorcycles were generally air-cooled and considered noisy, smoky, and unreliable. Suzuki changed that perception by building a refined, liquid-cooled triple that could compete with four-stroke handling and durability.
The GT750's three-cylinder design gave it a unique exhaust note and smoother power delivery than v-twin or single competitors.
Technical Highlights
Liquid-Cooled Triple
The 748cc three-cylinder two-stroke featured:
- Water jackets around each cylinder
- Transistorized ignition for reliable sparking
- Mikuni 34mm round-slide carbs (3x)
- Expansion chambers for each cylinder
Advanced Engine Design
The GT750 used:
- Buchanan 5-speed transmission with constant-mesh gears
- Primary kickstarter and separate shift pedal
- Shaft drive to rear wheel (later models used chain)
Handling
The steel double-cradle frame provided:
- 33mm front forks with 6.5 inches travel
- Dual shocks rear with adjustable preload
- 10-inch front disc brake (very advanced for 1971)
Visual Character
The GT750 features:
- Triangular airbox between cylinders
- Three exhaust pipes sweeping up on left side
- Tapered tank with color-matched side panels
- Upright riding position for touring comfort
Classic colors: Orange with black panels, or White with blue panels.
Source: Wikipedia - Suzuki GT750