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 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1978 Suzuki GS1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 997 cc |
| Power | 62 hp | 87 hp |
| Torque | 75.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1485 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 20.0 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 1978 Suzuki GS1000 pushed output to 87hp. 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 1978 Suzuki GS1000 — 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 1978 Suzuki GS1000
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 features a 997cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 87hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1978 Suzuki GS1000 Profile →