Suzuki GT250
 Suzuki GT250 Ram Air model | |
| Manufacturer | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Also called | Suzuki Hustler |
| Production | 1971-1981 |
| Predecessor | Suzuki GT250 |
| Class | Standard |
| Engine | 247 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin |
| Bore / stroke | 54 mm × 54 mm (2.1 in × 2.1 in) |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 |
| Top speed | 90 mph (140 km/h) |
| Power | 26 bhp (19 kW) - 32 bhp (24 kW) |
| Transmission | Multiplate wet clutch, 6 speed |
| Frame type | Duplex cradle |
| Suspension | Front: telescopic forks Rear: swinging arm |
| Wheelbase | 1,310 mm (52 in) |
| Seat height | 785 mm (30.9 in) |
| Footnotes / references [1][2][3][4][5][6] | |
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. It was discontinued in 1981 in favour of Suzuki's four stroke models.
Technical details
Engine and transmission
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The T250's engine was a development of the earlier the earlier T250, 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.[7]
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]
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. 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
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]
Initially brakes were drums front and rear, the front being an effective 2ls item.[8] The front brake was replaced in 1972 with a single disc,[1] which suffered poor wet weather performance.[8]
Model variants
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.
1971 GT250
Introduced to the Japanese domestic market only, the model was based the T250 and had styling similar to the T350.
1972 GT250 II
Still only for the Japanese market, the GT250 II gained a disc front brake and Suzuki's Ram Air system.[2]
1973 GT250K
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.[1]
1974 GT250L
1975 GT250M
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.[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,[9] the learner class at the time.[7]
1977 GT250B
There were minor cosmetic changes for 1977 including the headlight shell and side panels being finished in black.[1]
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.[1]
GT250 X7
References
- ^ a b c d e f g "Suzuki GT250 model history". www.suzukicycles.org. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ a b c d e f g "1973-1977 Suzuki GT250". Motorcycle Classics. 8 October 2013. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ a b "1976 Suzuki GT250A Frame no. GT250-81082 Engine no. GT250-81139". Bonhams. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ Buyers Guide. Cycle World Magazine. January 1975. p. 114.
- ^ a b c d e Salvadori, Clement (14 December 2018). "Retrospective: 1973-1975 Suzuki GT250 Hustler | Rider Magazine". ridermagazine.com. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ "Suzuki GT 250 Technical Specifications". www.ultimatespecs.com. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ a b Hewitt, Sam (28 January 2019). "Flattering Ram | Suzuki GT250 Ram Air". www.classicbikehub.uk. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ a b Brown, Roland (11 July 2007). "1972 Suzuki T250 Hustler". Motorcycle Classics. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
- ^ 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.
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