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The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 and 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 from Japan was powered by a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 producing 95hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo by contrast offered 738cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 67hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 235.0kg (518 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 from Japan was powered by a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 producing 95hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo by contrast offered 738cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 67hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 235.0kg (518 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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
| 1979 Yamaha XS1100 | 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1101 cc | 738 cc |
| Power | 95 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 89.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 268.0 kg | 235.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 290.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 has the edge thanks to more power (95hp vs 67hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1979 Yamaha XS1100
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 features a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1979 Yamaha XS1100 Profile →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 →