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 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5000rpm. Tipping the scales at 350.0kg (772 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 105.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 235.0 kg | 350.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 380.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1570 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 19.0 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 65hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is moderate for the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and good for the 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide — 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 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide
Born in 1980, the 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide is a 1338cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 65hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1980 Harley-Davidson FLT Tour Glide Profile →