1979 Suzuki GS550
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 features a 549cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 50hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- DOHC inline-4
- Displacement
- 549 cc
- Cylinders
- 4
- Power
- 50 hp @ 8500 rpm
- Torque
- 44.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 58.0 × 52.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 4x Mikuni carburetors
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
- 6-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 175 km/h (109 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 202 kg (445 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 218 kg (481 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 800 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1410 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 15.0 L
History & Story
When Suzuki unveiled the 1979 Suzuki GS550 in 1979, it signaled the company's commitment to the standard motorcycle segment. Built in Japan, this standard motorcycle embodied the spirit of 1970s motorcycling.
Powering the 1979 Suzuki GS550 is a 549cc DOHC inline-4 producing 50hp. This four-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 4x Mikuni carburetors. A 6-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 202 kg (445 lbs) dry, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1410 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a fuel capacity of 15.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Powering the 1979 Suzuki GS550 is a 549cc DOHC inline-4 producing 50hp. This four-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 4x Mikuni carburetors. A 6-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 202 kg (445 lbs) dry, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1410 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1979 Suzuki GS550 achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a fuel capacity of 15.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Cam chain tensioner rattle
- Petcock vacuum diaphragm failure
Fun Facts
- The 1979 Suzuki GS550 was produced in Suzuki's Japan facilities
- The 1979 Suzuki GS550 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 4/10
Resources & Parts
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