SUZUKI

GS 750-1976

An exercise in good judgment

The arrival of the first 750cc Yamaha and Suzuki four-strokes in 1976 marked an historical turning point. The former attempted to break new ground technically with a threecylinder shaft-drive machine, while Suzuki followed the classic route of a transverse four-cylinder layout.

Errors of Judgment

Suzuki had previously made two costly enors of judgment. The first had been the highly original GT 750 three-cylinder two-stroke, which lacked sportiness and didn't conform to the antipollution laws, and the second was the rotary-engined RE5. This time the marque was taking no risks, and satisfied itself by producing the best possible interpretation of a well-proven theme. Its sensible styling was inspired by the Honda F1, while the twinoverhead- camshaft engine was comparable with the Kawasaki power unit.

The Best-Balanced Bike

It took some time for the GS 750 to make a serious impression on the market. It quickly revealed itself as the best-balanced machine in its category. It led the way in all its aspects. The road-holding was exemplary, it was marginally faster than any of its rivals, and its reliability was outstanding. Included in its comprehensive equipment was a digital display on the instrument panel that showed which speed was engaged! In 1978 the GS750 not only gained alloy rims, but was joined by a big sister, the GS 1000. It remained in production until 1981, when it was replaced by the GSX 750 and 1100.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 718cc (65x56.4mm) air-cooled transverse four-cylinder

Power Rating: 68 hp @ 8500 rpm

Valves: twin overhead camshafts driven by chain; 8 valves

Fuel System: carburetors

Transmission: 5-.speed; chain final drive

Suspension: telescopic forks (front); swinging fork (rear)

Brakes: twin disk (front); disk (rear)

Wheels: 3.25x19 inch (front); 4.00x18 inch (rear).

Weight: 192 lb

Maximum Speed: 126 mph

Evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the GS 750 had the best-balanced combination of virtues of all the big bikes of its day.