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{{Short description|Two-stroke, twin-cylinder motorcycle}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2021}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2021}}
{{Infobox motorcycle
{{Infobox motorcycle
| name = Suzuki GT250
| name = Suzuki GT250
Line 16: Line 19:
| compression = 7.5:1
| compression = 7.5:1
| top_speed = {{convert|90|mph|abbr=on}}<br>{{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} (X7)
| top_speed = {{convert|90|mph|abbr=on}}<br>{{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} (X7)
| power = {{convert|26|bhp|abbr=on}} - {{convert|32|bhp|abbr=on}}
| power = {{convert|26|-|32|bhp|abbr=on}}
| torque =
| torque =
| ignition =
| ignition =
Line 39: Line 42:
| related =
| related =
| sp = uk
| sp = uk
| footnotes = <ref name="www.suzukicycles.org">{{cite web |title=Suzuki GT250 model history |url=https://www.suzukicycles.org/GT-series/GT250.shtml#gsc.tab=0 |website=www.suzukicycles.org |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref name="Motorcycle Classics">{{cite web |title=1973-1977 Suzuki GT250 |url=https://www.motorcycleclassics.com/classic-japanese-motorcycles/suzuki-gt250-zmmz13ndzbea/ |website=Motorcycle Classics |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=8 October 2013}}</ref><ref name="Bonhams">{{cite web |title=1976 Suzuki GT250A Frame no. GT250-81082 Engine no. GT250-81139 |url=https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/25384/lot/397/?category=list |website=[[Bonhams]] |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Buyers Guide |date=January 1975 |publisher=Cycle World Magazine |page=114 |url=https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=qnENl-yhiN4C&pg=RA12-PA114&dq=suzuki+gt250&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiR0qOKl4jzAhWIDsAKHSTSAc4QuwV6BAgJEAY#v=onepage&q=suzuki%20gt250&f=false |language=en}}</ref><ref name="ridermagazine.com">{{cite web |last1=Salvadori |first1=Clement |title=Retrospective: 1973-1975 Suzuki GT250 Hustler {{!}} Rider Magazine |url=https://ridermagazine.com/2018/12/14/retrospective-1973-1975-suzuki-gt250-hustler/ |website=ridermagazine.com |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=14 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Suzuki GT 250 Technical Specifications |url=https://www.ultimatespecs.com/motorcycles-specs/suzuki/suzuki-gt-250-1975 |website=www.ultimatespecs.com |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com">{{cite web |last1=Kane |first1=Gerard |title=Quarter-litre heroes from before the fall: Kawasaki KH250 v Suzuki GT250 v Yamaha RD250 LC |url=https://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/2016/may/mcn-plus---quarter-litre-heroes-from-before-the-fall-kh250-v-gt250-v-rd250lc-ps/ |website=[[Motorcycle News]] |access-date=18 September 2021 |language=en |date=9 March 2021}}</ref>
| footnotes = <ref name="www.suzukicycles.org">{{cite web |title=Suzuki GT250 model history |url=https://www.suzukicycles.org/GT-series/GT250.shtml#gsc.tab=0 |website=www.suzukicycles.org |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref name="Motorcycle Classics">{{cite web |title=1973-1977 Suzuki GT250 |url=https://www.motorcycleclassics.com/classic-japanese-motorcycles/suzuki-gt250-zmmz13ndzbea/ |website=Motorcycle Classics |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=8 October 2013}}</ref><ref name="Bonhams">{{cite web |title=1976 Suzuki GT250A Frame no. GT250-81082 Engine no. GT250-81139 |url=https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/25384/lot/397/?category=list |website=[[Bonhams]] |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Buyers Guide |date=January 1975 |publisher=Cycle World Magazine |page=114 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qnENl-yhiN4C&q=suzuki+gt250&pg=RA12-PA114 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="ridermagazine.com">{{cite web |last1=Salvadori |first1=Clement |title=Retrospective: 1973-1975 Suzuki GT250 Hustler {{!}} Rider Magazine |url=https://ridermagazine.com/2018/12/14/retrospective-1973-1975-suzuki-gt250-hustler/ |website=ridermagazine.com |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=14 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Suzuki GT 250 Technical Specifications |url=https://www.ultimatespecs.com/motorcycles-specs/suzuki/suzuki-gt-250-1975 |website=www.ultimatespecs.com |access-date=18 September 2021}}</ref><ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com">{{cite web |last1=Kane |first1=Gerard |title=Quarter-litre heroes from before the fall: Kawasaki KH250 v Suzuki GT250 v Yamaha RD250 LC |url=https://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/2016/may/mcn-plus---quarter-litre-heroes-from-before-the-fall-kh250-v-gt250-v-rd250lc-ps/ |website=[[Motorcycle News]] |access-date=18 September 2021 |language=en |date=9 March 2021}}</ref>
}}
}}
The '''Suzuki GT250''', also known as the '''Suzuki Hustler''' in the US is a {{convert|247|cc|abbr=on}}, [[two-stroke engine|two-stroke]], [[straight-twin engine|twin-cylinder]] motorcycle produced by the Japanese [[Suzuki]] company between 1971 and 1981. The model was developed from the earlier [[Suzuki T250|T250]], and was one of the best selling motorcycles in its class. For 1978 the bike was redesign and marketed as the GT250 X7. The X7 was capable of reaching {{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} in favourable conditions. The model range was discontinued in 1981 in favour of Suzuki's [[four stroke]] models, and the X7 was developed into the [[Suzuki RG250|RG250]].
The '''Suzuki GT250''', also known as the '''Suzuki Hustler''' in the US is a {{convert|247|cc|abbr=on}}, [[two-stroke engine|two-stroke]], [[straight-twin engine|twin-cylinder]] motorcycle produced by the Japanese [[Suzuki]] company between 1971 and 1981. The model was developed from the earlier [[Suzuki T250|T250]], and was one of the best selling motorcycles in its class. For 1978 the bike was redesign and marketed as the GT250 X7. The X7 was capable of reaching {{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} in favourable conditions. The model range was discontinued in 1981 in favour of Suzuki's [[four stroke]] models, and the X7 was developed into the [[Suzuki RG250 Gamma|RG250 Gamma]].


==Technical details==
==Technical details==
Line 47: Line 50:
===Engine and transmission===
===Engine and transmission===
[[File:Suzuki GT 250 (7833775394).jpg|thumb|Ram Air engine]]
[[File:Suzuki GT 250 (7833775394).jpg|thumb|Ram Air engine]]
The T250's engine was a development of the earlier the earlier T250, which had been introduced in 1966. The 180° [[Two-stroke engine#Piston-controlled inlet port|piston ported]] two stroke twin was of [[unit construction]] and had alloy [[Cylinder head|head]] and alloy [[Engine block|barrels]] with cast iron liners. [[Bore (engine)|Bore]] and [[Stroke (engine)|stroke]] were {{convert|54|x|54|mm|abbr=on}} and the claimed power output was {{convert|31|bhp|abbr=on}} @ 7,000 rpm.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /><ref name="ridermagazine.com" /> In 1971 the ''Ram Air System'' cooling duct, as used on the [[Suzuki GT380|GT380]] and [[Suzuki GT550|GT550]], was added to the cylinder head. It is debated whether the Ram Air System improved cooling significantly or was a cosmetic addition.<ref name="www.classicbikehub.uk">{{cite web |last1=Hewitt |first1=Sam |title=Flattering Ram {{!}} Suzuki GT250 Ram Air |url=https://www.classicbikehub.uk/Features/article/flattering-ram-suzuki-gt250-ram-air |website=www.classicbikehub.uk |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=28 January 2019}}</ref>
The T250's engine was a development of the earlier T20, which had been introduced in 1966. The 180° [[Two-stroke engine#Piston-controlled inlet port|piston ported]] two stroke twin was of [[unit construction]] and had alloy [[Cylinder head|head]] and alloy [[Engine block|barrels]] with cast iron liners. [[Bore (engine)|Bore]] and [[Stroke (engine)|stroke]] were {{convert|54|x|54|mm|abbr=on}} and the claimed power output was {{convert|31|bhp|abbr=on}} @ 7,000 rpm.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /><ref name="ridermagazine.com" /> In 1971 the ''Ram Air System'' cooling duct, as used on the [[Suzuki GT380|GT380]] and [[Suzuki GT550|GT550]], was added to the cylinder head. It is debated whether the Ram Air System improved cooling significantly or was a cosmetic addition.<ref name="www.classicbikehub.uk">{{cite web|last1=Hewitt |first1=Sam |title=Flattering Ram {{!}} Suzuki GT250 Ram Air |url=https://www.classicbikehub.uk/Features/article/flattering-ram-suzuki-gt250-ram-air |website=www.classicbikehub.uk |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=28 January 2019}}</ref>


In 1976 the engine was revised; the [[main bearing]]s were increased in number from three to four and two extra transfer port added, increasing power to {{convert|32|bhp|abbr=on}} @ 7,500 rpm.<ref name="Bonhams" /> The ram air was removed and the fins on the head enlarged to compensate.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /><ref name="ridermagazine.com" />
In 1976 the engine was revised; the [[main bearing]]s were increased in number from three to four and two extra transfer port added, increasing power to {{convert|32|bhp|abbr=on}} @ 7,500 rpm.<ref name="Bonhams" /> The ram air was removed and the fins on the head enlarged to compensate.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /><ref name="ridermagazine.com" />


A new engine was designed for the 1978 X7 model. Whilst retaining the 54 mm bore and stroke, the engine was more compact and weighed {{convert|7.8|kg|abbr=on}} less than the GT250C engine. The new engine used Suzuki's dual induction system, first used on its off-road bikes. The system used both piston porting and [[reed valve]]s.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" />
A new engine was designed for the 1978 X7 model. Whilst retaining the 54&nbsp;mm bore and stroke, the engine was more compact and weighed {{convert|7.8|kg|abbr=on}} less than the GT250C engine. The new engine used Suzuki's dual induction system, first used on its off-road bikes. The system used both piston porting and [[reed valve]]s,<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /> which gave better response through the rev range.<ref>{{cite web|title=SUZUKI GT 250 X7 specs - 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983 |url=https://www.autoevolution.com/moto/suzuki-gt-250-x7-1978.html#aeng_suzuki-gt-250-x7-1978-250 |website=autoevolution |access-date=18 September 2021 |language=en}}</ref>


[[Ignition system|Ignition]] was by twin [[Ignition coil|coils]] with [[Contact breaker|points]] mounted on the end of the [[crankshaft]]. Fuel was delivered by twin 26 mm [[Mikuni (company)|Mikuni]] [[Carburetor|carburettors]], which had restrictive slides to reduce intake noise.<ref name="ridermagazine.com" /> The carbs were increased to 28 mm in 1975 and were rubber mounted.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /> The carbs were reduced to 26 mm on the X7 to increase mid-range power.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /> The engine was lubricated by Suzuki's ''CCI'' system.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" />
[[Ignition system|Ignition]] was by twin [[Ignition coil|coils]] with [[Contact breaker|points]] mounted on the end of the [[crankshaft]]. Fuel was delivered by twin 26&nbsp;mm [[Mikuni (company)|Mikuni]] [[Carburetor|carburettors]], which had restrictive slides to reduce intake noise.<ref name="ridermagazine.com" /> The carbs were increased to 28&nbsp;mm in 1975 and were rubber mounted.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /> The carbs were reduced to 26&nbsp;mm on the X7 to increase mid-range power.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /> The engine was lubricated by Suzuki's ''CCI'' system.<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" />


Primary drive was by helical gears to a [[Clutch#Motorcycles|multi-plate wet clutch]].<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /> The six speed gearbox received revised second and third gear ratios in 1976. [[Chain drive]] took power to the rear wheel.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />
Primary drive was by helical gears to a [[Clutch#Motorcycles|multi-plate wet clutch]].<ref name="Motorcycle Classics" /> The six speed gearbox received revised second and third gear ratios in 1976. [[Chain drive]] took power to the rear wheel.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />
Line 67: Line 70:
The first of the GT250 models was introduced to the Japanese home market in 1971 and apart from some cosmetic changes was identical to the T250. The Ram Air System and disc frame brake were added in 1972. In 1973 the model was introduced to export markets.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />
The first of the GT250 models was introduced to the Japanese home market in 1971 and apart from some cosmetic changes was identical to the T250. The Ram Air System and disc frame brake were added in 1972. In 1973 the model was introduced to export markets.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />


===1971 GT250===
===GT250===
Introduced to the Japanese domestic market only, the model was based the T250 and had styling similar to the [[Suzuki T350|T350]].<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics">{{cite web |title=The History of Suzuki's GT250 |url=https://www.pressreader.com/uk/classic-motorcycle-mechanics/20181008/283472142193864 |website=Classic Motorcycle Mechanics |via=www.pressreader.com |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=8 October 2018}}</ref>
Introduced to the Japanese domestic market only in 1971, the model was based on the T250 and had styling similar to the [[Suzuki T350|T350]].<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics">{{cite web |title=The History of Suzuki's GT250 |url=https://www.pressreader.com/uk/classic-motorcycle-mechanics/20181008/283472142193864 |website=Classic Motorcycle Mechanics |via=www.pressreader.com |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=8 October 2018}}</ref>


===1972 GT250 II===
===GT250 II===
Still only for the Japanese market, the GT250 II gained a disc front brake, gaiter on the front forks and Suzuki's Ram Air system.<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics" />
Still only for the Japanese market, the 1972 GT250 II gained a disc front brake, gaiter on the front forks and Suzuki's Ram Air system.<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics" />


===1973 GT250K===
===GT250K/L/M===
In 1973 the bike was restyled and released in Europe and America. The exhausts were modified to comply with noise and emission regulations which reduced power. It was available in red or green with a white stripe.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />
In 1973 the bike was restyled and released in Europe and America in 1973 as the GT250K. The exhausts were modified to comply with noise and emission regulations which reduced power. It was available in red, candy blue, candy pink or green with a white or silver stripe, outlined in black. The 1974 L and 1975 M models had minor cosmetic changes only.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />


===1974 GT250L===
===GT250A/B/C===
⚫
An updated engine was introduced in 1976 with a 4 bearing [[crankshaft]], 2 extra transfer ports and larger carbs which increased power. The Ram Air System was removed. Although the GT250A faster than the previous model, it suffered from lack of power below 4,000 rpm.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" /> In the UK the model was heavily advertised with the then 500cc world champion [[Barry Sheene]] heading the campaign. The GT250 became the top selling 250 cc bike,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Walker |first1=Alastair |title=The Kawasaki Triples Bible: All Road Models 1968-1980, Plus H1R and H2R Racers in Profile |date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Veloce Publishing Ltd |location=Dorchester |isbn=978-1-84584-075-4 |page=103 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oK8hiZWBpmMC&q=suzuki+gt250&pg=PA103 |language=en}}</ref> the learner class at the time.<ref name="www.classicbikehub.uk" /> The 1977 B and 1978 C models only differed by minor cosmetic changes.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />
There were minor cosmetic changes for 1974 including a chrome headlight shell.<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics" />

===1975 GT250M===
Again there were only cosmetic changes for 1975 including the gaiters being removed from the forks.<ref name="Classic Motorcycle Mechanics" />

===1976 GT250A===
⚫
An updated engine was introduced in 1976 with a 4 bearing [[crankshaft]], 2 extra transfer ports and larger carbs which increased power. The Ram Air System was removed. Although faster than the previous model, it suffered from lack of power below 4,000 rpm.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" /> In the UK the model was heavily advertised with the then 500cc world champion [[Barry Sheene]] heading the campaign. The GT250 became the top selling 250 cc bike,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Walker |first1=Alastair |title=The Kawasaki Triples Bible: All Road Models 1968-1980, Plus H1R and H2R Racers in Profile |date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Veloce Publishing Ltd |location=Dorchester |isbn=978-1-84584-075-4 |page=103 |url=https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=oK8hiZWBpmMC&pg=PA103&dq=suzuki+gt250&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiyr_vol4jzAhWHQkEAHf-wBl44FBC7BXoECAQQBw#v=onepage&q=suzuki%20gt250&f=false |language=en}}</ref> the learner class at the time.<ref name="www.classicbikehub.uk" />

===1977 GT250B===
There were minor cosmetic changes for 1977 including the headlight shell and side panels being finished in black.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />

===1978 GT250C===
On the final model before the introduction of the X7, there were minor cosmetic changes including the side panels now being finished in the same colours as the tank. Finishes were candy Florida blue, medium scarlet or eaglet white.<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" />


===GT250 X7===
===GT250 X7===
The bike was redesigned for the 1978 X7. The bike was {{convert|18|kg|abbr=on}} lighter than the GT250C and more compact. Although producing no more power than previous models, the new engine was more tractable. The lighter and more compact X7 was capable of {{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} under favourable conditions. The X7 continued in production until 1981 and formed the basis of the RG250.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" />
The bike was redesigned for the 1978 X7 (known as the X7E in Germany and RG250 in Japan).<ref name="www.suzukicycles.org" /> The bike was {{convert|18|kg|abbr=on}} lighter than the GT250C and more compact. Although producing no more power than previous models, the new engine was more tractable.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /> The lighter and more compact X7 was capable of {{convert|100|mph|abbr=on}} under favourable conditions.<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /><ref>{{cite web|last1=Bowen |first1=Simon |title=Class of '80 - Yamaha RD250 vs. Suzuki GT250 |url=https://www.visordown.com/reviews/road-test/class-%E2%80%9880-yamaha-rd250-vs-suzuki-gt250 |website=Visordown |access-date=18 September 2021 |language=en |date=29 March 2010}}</ref> The X7 continued in production until 1981<ref name="www.motorcyclenews.com" /> and formed the basis of the RG250 Gamma.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cooper |first1=Steve |title=Suzuki X7 |url=https://www.pressreader.com/uk/classic-motorcycle-mechanics/20170515/283553745526835 |website=Classic Motorcycle Mechanics |via=[[PressReader]] |access-date=18 September 2021 |date=15 May 2017}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 99: Line 90:
==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|Suzuki GT 250}}
{{Commons category|Suzuki GT 250}}
* {{YouTube|Ou3xq2qIKGU|Suzuki GT 250 Ram Air}}
* {{YouTube|mfh-8tfRRDw|1977 Suzuki GT250}}
* {{YouTube|2IRhRe7iEDs|SUZUKI X7 - スズキX7 - The 1980's Magic Years of Motorcycling}}

{{Suzuki T & GT series timeline|state=autocollapse}}

[[Category:Suzuki motorcycles|GT250]]
[[Category:Motorcycles introduced in 1971]]
[[Category:Two-stroke motorcycles]]
[[Category:Motorcycles powered by straight-twin engines]]

Latest revision as of 14:49, 22 April 2024

Suzuki GT250
Suzuki GT250 Ram Air model
ManufacturerSuzuki
Also calledSuzuki Hustler
Production1971-1981
PredecessorSuzuki T250
ClassStandard
Engine247 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin
Bore / stroke54 mm × 54 mm (2.1 in × 2.1 in)
Compression ratio7.5:1
Top speed90 mph (140 km/h)
100 mph (160 km/h) (X7)
Power26–32 bhp (19–24 kW)
TransmissionMultiplate wet clutch, 6 speed
Frame typeDuplex cradle
SuspensionFront: telescopic forks
Rear: swinging arm
Wheelbase1,310 mm (52 in)
Seat height785 mm (30.9 in)
Weight146 kg (322 lb)
128 kg (282 lb) (X7) (dry)
Footnotes / references
[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]

The Suzuki GT250, also known as the Suzuki Hustler in the US is a 247 cc (15.1 cu in), two-stroke, twin-cylinder motorcycle produced by the Japanese Suzuki company between 1971 and 1981. The model was developed from the earlier T250, and was one of the best selling motorcycles in its class. For 1978 the bike was redesign and marketed as the GT250 X7. The X7 was capable of reaching 100 mph (160 km/h) in favourable conditions. The model range was discontinued in 1981 in favour of Suzuki's four stroke models, and the X7 was developed into the RG250 Gamma.

Technical details

[edit]

Engine and transmission

[edit]
Ram Air engine

The T250's engine was a development of the earlier T20, which had been introduced in 1966. The 180° piston ported two stroke twin was of unit construction and had alloy head and alloy barrels with cast iron liners. Bore and stroke were 54 mm × 54 mm (2.1 in × 2.1 in) and the claimed power output was 31 bhp (23 kW) @ 7,000 rpm.[2][5] In 1971 the Ram Air System cooling duct, as used on the GT380 and GT550, was added to the cylinder head. It is debated whether the Ram Air System improved cooling significantly or was a cosmetic addition.[8]

In 1976 the engine was revised; the main bearings were increased in number from three to four and two extra transfer port added, increasing power to 32 bhp (24 kW) @ 7,500 rpm.[3] The ram air was removed and the fins on the head enlarged to compensate.[2][5]

A new engine was designed for the 1978 X7 model. Whilst retaining the 54 mm bore and stroke, the engine was more compact and weighed 7.8 kg (17 lb) less than the GT250C engine. The new engine used Suzuki's dual induction system, first used on its off-road bikes. The system used both piston porting and reed valves,[7] which gave better response through the rev range.[9]

Ignition was by twin coils with points mounted on the end of the crankshaft. Fuel was delivered by twin 26 mm Mikuni carburettors, which had restrictive slides to reduce intake noise.[5] The carbs were increased to 28 mm in 1975 and were rubber mounted.[2] The carbs were reduced to 26 mm on the X7 to increase mid-range power.[7] The engine was lubricated by Suzuki's CCI system.[2]

Primary drive was by helical gears to a multi-plate wet clutch.[2] The six speed gearbox received revised second and third gear ratios in 1976. Chain drive took power to the rear wheel.[1]

Cycle parts

[edit]

The duplex cradle frame of the T250 was modified for the GT250 with three small top tubes instead of the previous single large tube.[5] Rear suspension was by swinging arm with twin shock absorbers. At the front telescopic forks were used.[2]

A new single downtube frame was designed for the X7, which saved 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) over the previous frame.[7]

Initially brakes were drums front and rear, the front being an effective 2ls item.[10] The front brake was replaced in 1972 with a single disc,[1] which suffered poor wet weather performance.[10]

Model variants

[edit]

The first of the GT250 models was introduced to the Japanese home market in 1971 and apart from some cosmetic changes was identical to the T250. The Ram Air System and disc frame brake were added in 1972. In 1973 the model was introduced to export markets.[1]

GT250

[edit]

Introduced to the Japanese domestic market only in 1971, the model was based on the T250 and had styling similar to the T350.[11]

GT250 II

[edit]

Still only for the Japanese market, the 1972 GT250 II gained a disc front brake, gaiter on the front forks and Suzuki's Ram Air system.[11]

GT250K/L/M

[edit]

In 1973 the bike was restyled and released in Europe and America in 1973 as the GT250K. The exhausts were modified to comply with noise and emission regulations which reduced power. It was available in red, candy blue, candy pink or green with a white or silver stripe, outlined in black. The 1974 L and 1975 M models had minor cosmetic changes only.[1]

GT250A/B/C

[edit]

An updated engine was introduced in 1976 with a 4 bearing crankshaft, 2 extra transfer ports and larger carbs which increased power. The Ram Air System was removed. Although the GT250A faster than the previous model, it suffered from lack of power below 4,000 rpm.[1] In the UK the model was heavily advertised with the then 500cc world champion Barry Sheene heading the campaign. The GT250 became the top selling 250 cc bike,[12] the learner class at the time.[8] The 1977 B and 1978 C models only differed by minor cosmetic changes.[1]

GT250 X7

[edit]

The bike was redesigned for the 1978 X7 (known as the X7E in Germany and RG250 in Japan).[1] The bike was 18 kg (40 lb) lighter than the GT250C and more compact. Although producing no more power than previous models, the new engine was more tractable.[7] The lighter and more compact X7 was capable of 100 mph (160 km/h) under favourable conditions.[7][13] The X7 continued in production until 1981[7] and formed the basis of the RG250 Gamma.[14]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d e f g h "Suzuki GT250 model history". www.suzukicycles.org. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g "1973-1977 Suzuki GT250". Motorcycle Classics. 8 October 2013. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  3. ^ a b "1976 Suzuki GT250A Frame no. GT250-81082 Engine no. GT250-81139". Bonhams. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  4. ^ Buyers Guide. Cycle World Magazine. January 1975. p. 114.
  5. ^ a b c d e Salvadori, Clement (14 December 2018). "Retrospective: 1973-1975 Suzuki GT250 Hustler | Rider Magazine". ridermagazine.com. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  6. ^ "Suzuki GT 250 Technical Specifications". www.ultimatespecs.com. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g Kane, Gerard (9 March 2021). "Quarter-litre heroes from before the fall: Kawasaki KH250 v Suzuki GT250 v Yamaha RD250 LC". Motorcycle News. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  8. ^ a b Hewitt, Sam (28 January 2019). "Flattering Ram | Suzuki GT250 Ram Air". www.classicbikehub.uk. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  9. ^ "SUZUKI GT 250 X7 specs - 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983". autoevolution. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  10. ^ a b Brown, Roland (11 July 2007). "1972 Suzuki T250 Hustler". Motorcycle Classics. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  11. ^ a b "The History of Suzuki's GT250". Classic Motorcycle Mechanics. 8 October 2018. Retrieved 18 September 2021 – via www.pressreader.com.
  12. ^ Walker, Alastair (15 January 2011). The Kawasaki Triples Bible: All Road Models 1968-1980, Plus H1R and H2R Racers in Profile. Dorchester: Veloce Publishing Ltd. p. 103. ISBN 978-1-84584-075-4.
  13. ^ Bowen, Simon (29 March 2010). "Class of '80 - Yamaha RD250 vs. Suzuki GT250". Visordown. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  14. ^ Cooper, Steve (15 May 2017). "Suzuki X7". Classic Motorcycle Mechanics. Retrieved 18 September 2021 – via PressReader.
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