1972 Suzuki 543cc GT550J

Suzuki completed their lineup of two stroke triples with the launch of the GT380 and GT550 in 1972, the watercooled GT750 having been introduced the previous year. The two smaller triples were both air cooled and featured Suzuki's distinctive Ram Air system which directed cooling air where it was required to prevent overheating. The middle bike in a three strong lineup is sometimes unfairly overlooked, but the GT550 was in many ways the sweet spot in the range, being a lot lighter than the 750, and significantly more powerful than the 380. It is often compared to Kawasaki's H1, but for many riders the Suzuki was, and still is, a better all-round machine having been conceived as a tourer rather than a narrowly focused sportsbike. Arguably it had more character than Honda's CB500, while being a lot easier to live with than the Kawasaki.

The 1972 bikes from the first year of production are probably the most attractive and sought after, and this machine is one of these. It was originally shipped to the USA and is believed to have been purchased from its first UK owner, albeit it was the vendor who registered it with the DVLA in August 2024. The odometer fitted displays 5,291 miles and a second set of detached instrumentation displays 10,645 miles - hence the true mileage is unknown. It is offered for sale as an uncompleted rebuild which has unfortunately stalled due to the vendor's ill health. A vast amount of money has been spent on such things as a complete engine rebuild, chroming, painting, a new wiring loom, new Boyer-Bransden ignition, Higgspeed exhausts (originals supplied together with a selection of sundry spares), new wheel rims and spokes, tyres, rear shocks, chain, and many others. Some, but not all, of the bills are supplied. As it stands, we understand that the bike won't run without the choke. Despite the original carburettors having been ultrasonically cleaned, we are told that these are likely to be the cause of the problem, and that replacements are believed to be required. Sadly, the vendor's health issues have meant that this hasn't yet been addressed, and as well as sorting out a minor oil leak, it will need to be dealt with by the GT550's new owner. Following the full engine rebuild, which has included the fitting of new pistons, careful running in will also be required. A V5C and VJMC dating letter are supplied. It should be noted that the stamped frame number is illegible since powder coating (though a DVLA / VJMC pre-restoration image of the frame number is on file) and that the original manufacturers frame number plaque is presently detached from the machine – but present in the history file.

This is a rare opportunity to take advantage of a great deal of expensive work that has already been done, to sort the remaining issues, and enjoy the glory of when two strokes ruled before they were killed off by the late 1970s U.S. emissions regulations. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves regarding the motorcycle's provenance, condition, age, completeness, and originality prior to bidding. Sold strictly as seen.
Offered with key