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LOT 396

1979 Suzuki GT380 Registration no. JWD 176V Frame no. GT380-98190 Engine no. GT380-113894

Sold for £3,450 inc. premium
Lot 396

1979 Suzuki GT380
Registration no. JWD 176V Frame no. GT380-98190 Engine no. GT380-113894

1979 Suzuki GT380
Registration no. JWD 176V
Frame no. GT380-98190
Engine no. GT380-113894

Suzuki joined the exclusive superbike club in 1971 with the launch of the GT750. A three-cylinder water-cooled two-stroke, the GT750 was joined a year later by a pair of smaller air-cooled triples: the GT380 and GT550. Using the 54x54mm bore/stroke dimensions of the existing T250 twin, the GT380 displaced 371cc and produced 38bhp. The gearbox was a six-speeder, complemented by Suzuki's useful digital gear indicator in the instrument binnacle. Performance was brisk - 100mph being exceedable - though compromised by the fade-prone drum front brake, which was soon replaced by a more effective single hydraulic disc. Smooth and comfortable, the GT380 handled surprisingly well once the original-equipment Japanese tyres had been replaced by superior European rubber, proving quicker than the more powerful, but heavier and harder-to-handle, GT550 over cross-country going.

This GT380 was acquired by the lady vendor's late brother in 1998 and fully restored circa 2005 with help from members of the VJMC. The machine has been dry-stored since the restoration's completion, and the vendor advises us that all fluids have been drained from it. Following its lengthy period of post-restoration inactivity, 'JWD 176V' will require re-commissioning at the very least, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road. Currently displaying a total of 9,943 miles on the odometer, the machine is offered with an old-style V5C Registration Certificate.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

The fuel tank has sustained some damage in transit. Please see the website for an image of the damage.

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