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 Yamaha RD350
Suzuki GT750 scores 80/100 overall against Yamaha RD350 on 79/100. On the road: 70–70. As classics: 90–88. Overall result: Suzuki GT750.
Photo: Bergfalke2 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Yamaha RD350
79/100 Overall
70 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki GT750 | Yamaha RD350 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha RD350 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RD350 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 5 | Suzuki GT750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Suzuki GT750 |
| 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 Yamaha RD350 if…
you value light weight, lively acceleration and a simple, exciting two-stroke riding experience.
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.
Yamaha RD350
The Yamaha RD350 was produced from 1973–1975 and used a 347cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance, styling. 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.
Yamaha RD350
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1975.
- The recorded engine description is: 347cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance, styling.
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.
Yamaha RD350
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD350. 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.
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.
Yamaha RD350
- 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Suzuki GT750
Rivals to the Yamaha RD350
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Suzuki GT750 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki GT750 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.