The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary from Japan was powered by a 497cc Wankel rotary producing 62hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1977 Suzuki GS750 by contrast offered 748cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 68hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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
| 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary | 1977 Suzuki GS750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 62 hp | 68 hp |
| Torque | 75.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 244.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1485 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Suzuki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary laid the groundwork with 62hp, while the later 1977 Suzuki GS750 pushed output to 68hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Suzuki collection. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary and good for the 1977 Suzuki GS750 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary
Introduced in 1975, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary features a 497cc Wankel rotary engine producing 62hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary Profile →About the 1977 Suzuki GS750
The 1977 1977 Suzuki GS750 packs a 748cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 68hp into a standard motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1977 Suzuki GS750 Profile →