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 XT500
Suzuki GT750 scores 80/100 overall against Yamaha XT500 on 80/100. On the road: 70–72. As classics: 90–88. Overall result: A draw.
Photo: JokielGram · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha XT500
80/100 Overall
72 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki GT750 | Yamaha XT500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 5 | Suzuki GT750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Yamaha XT500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Suzuki GT750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 9 | Yamaha XT500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Suzuki GT750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha XT500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Suzuki GT750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Suzuki GT750 |
Choose the Suzuki GT750 if…
you want smooth two-stroke touring, unusual liquid-cooled engineering and unmistakable triple-cylinder character.
Choose the Yamaha XT500 if…
you want simple, durable all-road ability and the relaxed pulse of a landmark big single.
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 XT500
The Yamaha XT500 was produced from 1976–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, reliability, ownership 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.
Yamaha XT500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, reliability, ownership 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.
Yamaha XT500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha XT500. Its library score for historic importance 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 XT500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 XT500
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha XT500 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki GT750 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.