Photo: ronsaunders47 · CC BY-SA 2.0
Suzuki GT750
80/100 Overall
70 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki GT750 vs Vincent Black Shadow
Suzuki GT750 scores 80/100 overall against Vincent Black Shadow on 83/100. On the road: 70–65. As classics: 90–100. Overall result: Vincent Black Shadow.
Photo: tomislavmedak · CC BY 2.0
Vincent Black Shadow
83/100 Overall
65 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki GT750 | Vincent Black Shadow | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Vincent Black Shadow |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Vincent Black Shadow |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 6 | Suzuki GT750 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 4 | Suzuki GT750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki GT750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 10 | Vincent Black Shadow |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Vincent Black Shadow |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Vincent Black Shadow |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Suzuki GT750 if…
you want smooth two-stroke touring, unusual liquid-cooled engineering and unmistakable triple-cylinder character.
Choose the Vincent Black Shadow if…
you want one of motorcycling's defining performance legends, extraordinary engineering and world-class collector appeal.
Background
History
Suzuki GT750
The Suzuki GT750 was produced from 1971–1977 and used a 738cc liquid-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Vincent Black Shadow
The Vincent Black Shadow was produced from 1948–1955 and used a 998cc air-cooled 50-degree V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Suzuki GT750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 738cc liquid-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance, collector appeal.
Vincent Black Shadow
- Its production span in this library runs from 1948 to 1955.
- The recorded engine description is: 998cc air-cooled 50-degree V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Suzuki GT750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GT750. Its library score for character is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Vincent Black Shadow
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Vincent Black Shadow. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Suzuki GT750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Vincent Black Shadow
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Suzuki GT750
Rivals to the Vincent Black Shadow
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GT750 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Vincent Black Shadow wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Vincent Black Shadow takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.