Regan Brown
The Suzuki GT380 and GT550 are both classic motorcycles produced in the 1970s. The GT380 was introduced to the US market in 1972 alongside the bigger GT550. While it is known that both motorcycles shared the same chassis and running gear, it is unclear if they shared the same fuel tank. Some sources mention a fuel tank for both the GT380 and GT550, but it is not specified if this is the same fuel tank. Given that the GT380 and GT550 have different engine configurations, it is unlikely that they shared the exact same fuel tank, as fuel tank design is often tailored to the specific engine and fuel system of the vehicle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| GT380 and GT550 shared the same fuel tank | Yes, as per a listing on eBay for a Suzuki GT550 GT 550 Indy GT380 380 Fuel Gas Tank |
| GT380 fuel tank | Large, required internal cleaning after 20 years |
| GT550 fuel tank | Lockable fuel cap, an unusual feature at the time |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The Suzuki GT380 and GT550 were introduced to the US market in 1972
The Suzuki GT550, on the other hand, was designed as a touring motorcycle with a long wheelbase and a torquey engine. It was Suzuki's response to the Kawasaki H1 Mach III. The GT550 had a four-leading-shoe double-panel drum front brake, which was shared with the GT750. The front forks were conventional telescopic forks with rubber gaiters. Like the GT380, the GT550 also featured a lockable fuel cap and chrome and polished aluminium on the fenders. The GT550's introductory model had first-year sales of 11,000+ units.
In terms of their fuel tanks, both the GT380 and GT550 featured Suzuki's refined automatic fuel and oil mixing system, called CCI, which helped to lower exhaust smoke levels. The CCI system was designed to reduce smoke caused by unburned fuel and oil in the crankcase, a common issue with two-stroke engines. While I cannot confirm if they shared the exact same fuel tank design, both models incorporated this fuel mixing system.
The Suzuki GT380 and GT550 were part of Suzuki's GT series, which offered a range of engine sizes and features. The GT series was known for its electric starting, five- or six-speed transmissions, and drum brakes. The GT380 and GT550 specifically shared the six-speed transmission configuration, which set them apart from other models in the GT series.
Opening the CX9 Fuel Tank: Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The GT380 has a claimed power of 38hp @ 7,500rpm
The Suzuki GT380 is a two-stroke sport-touring motorcycle that was produced between 1972 and 1979. The bike features a two-stroke, transverse three-cylinder engine with a capacity of 371cc. The GT380 has a claimed power output of 38hp @ 7,500rpm, which is impressive for a motorcycle of its size. This power output allows the GT380 to achieve a top speed of 95mph, making it a capable and exciting machine for its time.
The GT380's engine is air-cooled and features a 3-into-4 stainless steel exhaust system. The bike is equipped with 3 x 24mm Mikuni carburetors and a battery and coil ignition system. It has a wet, multiplate clutch and a six-speed transmission with a final drive chain. The front suspension is a telescopic fork with oil dampening, while the rear suspension consists of dual shocks with five-way adjustable springs.
The Suzuki GT380 is known for its large fuel tank and seat, which set it apart from other motorcycles of its time. The fuel tank has a capacity of 3.96 gallons (15.00 liters), contributing to the bike's ability to handle long-distance touring. However, the engine vibrations transmitted through the passenger footpegs made the bike less comfortable for passengers.
Over the years, the GT380 underwent several improvements. For example, the 1973 model (GT380K) featured a 275mm front disc brake, improving upon the drum brake of earlier models. In 1974, the GT380L introduced constant-velocity carbs and an available cooling fan, further enhancing the bike's performance and functionality.
The GT380 shared some similarities with the Suzuki GT550, which was introduced to the U.S. market alongside the GT380 in 1972. The GT550 was designed as a touring motorcycle with a long wheelbase and a torquey engine. Both bikes featured lockable fuel caps, which were unusual at the time. However, it is unclear if they shared the same fuel tank design or capacity. The GT550 had a different engine configuration and was known for its substantial weight and size, making it suitable for long-distance touring.
Unlocking the Fuel Tank: Chevy Cruze Edition
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The GT550 was designed for touring with its long wheelbase
The Suzuki GT550 was designed for long-distance touring with its long wheelbase and unstressed torquey engine. Introduced as a counter to the Kawasaki H1 Mach III, the GT550 boasted a four-leading-shoe double-panel drum front brake, conventional telescopic front forks with rubber gaiters, and a lockable fuel cap—a rare feature at the time. Its engine, with smaller bore/longer stroke dimensions, allowed for the quick burning of the air-fuel mixture, enabling the use of regular-grade fuel.
The GT550's long wheelbase provided stability and comfort for touring, capable of carrying a passenger with ease. Its engine was designed for low-end torque rather than high-revving power, making it well-suited for cruising at a steady pace. The wheelbase also contributed to the motorcycle's overall weight and size, making it substantial enough for long-distance rides.
The GT550's engine configuration, with its smaller bore and longer stroke, contributed to its touring capabilities. This design allowed for the efficient burning of the air-fuel mixture, resulting in lower fuel consumption compared to other motorcycles in its class. This undersquare engine configuration was common in the past, but most Japanese motorcycle engine designers have since moved away from it due to its limitations on power increases.
The GT550's touring capabilities were further enhanced by its Suzuki Recycle Injection System (SRIS). This system addressed the issue of unburnt oil and fuel collecting in the crank chamber at idle, a common problem in two-stroke engines. By rerouting the unburned fuel and oil to the next cylinder in the firing order, the SRIS reduced visible emissions and improved fuel efficiency, ensuring a smoother riding experience over long distances.
The GT550's design and features made it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable touring motorcycle. With its long wheelbase, torquey engine, and innovative emission-reducing technologies, the GT550 offered a unique blend of performance and practicality for riders embarking on extended journeys.
Fuel Tank Light: How Much Gas is Left?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The GT380 and GT550 shared the same chassis and running gear
The Suzuki GT380 and GT550 were introduced to the US market in 1972. The GT380 was a two-stroke motorcycle with a 371cc engine, capable of a top speed of 95mph. The GT550 was designed as a touring motorcycle with a long wheelbase and torquey engine.
Both bikes featured Suzuki's CCI (automatic fuel and oil mixing system), which helped to lower exhaust smoke levels. They also had vacuum-operated petcocks and lockable fuel caps, which were unusual at the time. The GT550's engine was designed to allow the quick burning of the air-fuel mixture, enabling the use of regular grade fuel. This type of undersquare engine configuration is no longer used in street bikes due to limitations on power increases.
The GT380 and GT550 were produced during the same period, from 1972-1977, and shared many similarities in design and performance.
Draining Fuel Tank Before Long Drive: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The GT550 had a four-leading-shoe double-panel drum front brake
The Suzuki GT380 and GT550 were both introduced to the US market in 1972. The GT550 was designed as a touring motorcycle with a long wheelbase and an unstressed torquey engine. The GT550 introductory model was Suzuki's counter to the Kawasaki H1 Mach III.
The Suzuki GT550 had a four-leading-shoe double-panel drum front brake, shared with the GT750. The conventional telescopic front forks had rubber gaiters covering the fork stanchions. The front brake caliper was changed to a pivoting unit made by Asco, replacing the fixed Tokico caliper. The GT550's single-disc arrangement continued throughout the rest of its production.
The Suzuki GT380, on the other hand, featured a large gas tank and a large seat. While it had a locking gas cap, engine vibrations made the bike less comfortable for passengers. Over the years, the GT380 received small improvements, and the 1973 model replaced the drum brake with a 275mm front disc brake.
In terms of fuel, the GT550's smaller bore/longer stroke dimensions allowed for the quick burning of the air-fuel mixture, enabling the use of regular-grade fuel. The GT380, being a two-stroke engine, had a higher fuel consumption, which became less appealing to consumers as gas prices rose in the 1970s.
While I cannot definitively confirm if the GT380 and GT550 shared the same fuel tank, both models featured locking fuel caps, a rare feature for motorcycles at the time.
BMW i3 REx: Fuel Tank Storage Time Limits
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Suzuki GT380 and GT550 shared the same fuel tank.
The fuel tank had a lockable fuel cap, which was unusual for its time.
The GT380 and 550 shared the same chassis and running gear. They were both two-stroke motorcycles with a similar top speed of around 95-98 mph.
The GT380 and GT550 were described as very smooth and surprisingly flexible for two-strokes. The GT380 had a large seat, but engine vibrations made the bike less comfortable for passengers.
