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The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and 1977 BMW R100RS 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 1977 BMW R100RS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 1977 BMW R100RS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 | 1977 BMW R100RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 235.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 24.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1977 BMW R100RS has the edge thanks to more power (70hp vs 67hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and good for the 1977 BMW R100RS — 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 1977 BMW R100RS
A touring motorcycle from 1977, the 1977 BMW R100RS delivers 70hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1977 BMW R100RS Profile →