1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary

1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary

touring70sJapan

Introduced in 1975, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary features a 497cc Wankel rotary engine producing 62hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
Wankel rotary
Displacement
497 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
62 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
75.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
—
Cooling
Water-cooled
Fuel System
Mikuni carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Single disc
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
—
Rear Tyre
—
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
230 kg (507 lbs)
Wet Weight
250 kg (551 lbs)
Seat Height
800 mm
Wheelbase
1485 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
17.0 L

History & Story

In 1975, Suzuki launched the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary — a touring motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Japan, it combined Japan engineering with touring motorcycle appeal.

Powering the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary is a 497cc Wankel rotary producing 62hp. This single-cylinder engine uses water-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Mikuni carburetor. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.

Weighing 230 kg (507 lbs) dry, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary uses a steel double cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises single disc front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 17.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as very difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Suzuki motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

  • Apex seal wear
  • Cooling system demands
  • Specialized maintenance required
  • Petcock vacuum diaphragm failure

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Suzuki
  • The 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • The rotary engine is one of the rarest powerplant types ever used in a production motorcycle

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
9/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1975 Suzuki RE5 Rotary Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for Suzuki Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic Suzuki Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

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