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Classic · 1978

GT 550

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MotoLibrary Score
50 /100 Balanced
Power
48 HP
Top Speed
178 km/h
Engine
543 ccm

1978 Suzuki GT 550 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Suzuki for the classic motorcycle segment, the 1978 Suzuki GT 550 utilizes a 543 cc (33.1 cu in) air-cooled in-line three, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 48 HP (35 kW) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 88.4 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the GT 550 measures 190 kg (419 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (3.96 kg per horsepower). The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 178 km/h (111 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Suzuki archive, this model family spans 6 indexed model years from 1973 to 1978, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
88.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (3.96 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 543.0 ccm (33.13 cubic inches)
Engine Type In-line three, two-stroke
Engine Details In-line three, two-stroke
Power 48.0 HP (35.0 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Compression 6.8:1
Bore x Stroke 61.0 x 62.0 mm (2.4 x 2.4 inches)
Fuel Control Port control
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 178.0 km/h (110.6 mph)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.25-19
Rear Tyre 4.00-18
Front Brakes Single disc
Rear Brakes Expanding brake
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 190.0 kg (418.9 pounds)
Fuel Capacity 15.00 litres (3.96 US gallons)
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Power
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Fuel Capacity
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Brakes
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Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
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