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The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and 1970 BMW R75/5 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo from Japan was powered by a 738cc 2-stroke triple producing 67hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 235.0kg (518 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1970 BMW R75/5, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 745cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo from Japan was powered by a 738cc 2-stroke triple producing 67hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 235.0kg (518 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1970 BMW R75/5, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 745cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo | 1970 BMW R75/5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 235.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 216.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo has the edge thanks to more power (67hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1970 BMW R75/5, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is moderate for the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and good for the 1970 BMW R75/5 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo
The 1971 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo packs a 738cc 2-stroke triple engine with 67hp into a touring motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo Profile →About the 1970 BMW R75/5
BMW released the 1970 BMW R75/5 in 1970 with a 745cc OHV flat-twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1970 BMW R75/5 Profile →