$3,850
Santa Barbara, California
Category
Sport Bikes
Engine
750
Posted Over 1 Month
1978 Suzuki GS750 Classic Superbike This is a very original example of the 1978 GS750. This model was first introduced to the U.S. market in 1977. Up until that time, Suzuki produced 2-stroke street bikes and their existence was threatened by the increasingly tough regulations of the EPA. The brand new Suzuki 4-strokes, spearheaded by this 2nd year GS750, are widely credited with saving the Suzuki Motorcycle Corporation from becoming irrelevant in the U.S. marketplace. As a California bike, this GS is is extremely well preserved. The bike has been more than well cared for under my custodianship, and this is a bike that you can immediately enjoy. Unlike many other motorcycles offered on ebay, this one was not recently found at a yard sale, washed off and offered for sale. This GS is completely vetted and sorted out. It does not have any of the usual and frustrating issues that are common to those bikes coming out of storage, or to a bike that has been sitting. I did give some thought toward doing a full restoration of this bike, but decided not to. The original factory finishes are too nice to disturb. That said, the finishes are not perfect. There are a couple scuffs and scratches in the paint, and the chrome, although very good, is not show perfect. There are 3 holes in the lower front fender for a flap that has been removed. Meanwhile, the GS did receive a thorough mechanical restoration. Properly set-up suspension is important for a classic bike, so that is where I made some improvements. The original "too soft" fork springs were replaced with "Sonic" springs of the correct weight to properly support the bike and a 185-215 lb rider. New seals and oil were installed and the lower fork legs were restored to their original finish. While the front of the bike was apart, new tapered steering head bearings were pressed into the frame. New front brake pads were also installed. There is a slight pulsing in the front brake depending on lever pressure, but nothing that upsets the bike.At the back of the bike, new Progressive shocks replaced the stock factory dampers. The original shocks are included with the sale and can be mounted for a completely original look.The front and rear tires are newer - period correct sized - Cheng Shins with a couple thousand miles on them. The tires work well and they hold securely at all the lean angles that I found. The engine also received attention to ensure continued smooth performance. The rubber intake manifolds were restored to insure no air leaks. The carburetors were ultrasonically cleaned and then rebuilt with all new rubber o-rings (the good ones - not a cheap carb kit). A new air cleaner was installed and the jetting was adjusted to correct a lean mid-range setting from the factory. The tune-up included new HT (high tension) coils, new plug wires, spark plugs and spark plug caps, along with new points and condensers. A new oil filter and synthetic oil completed the recent engine work. And finally, the entire drive train was updated with a conversion from the 630 chain size to the more commonly used 530 chain along with new front and rear sprockets. The stock gearing ratio was retained. Recently, I took the GS out for a 457 mile ride with a group of modern bikes and it performed flawlessly, with good power and sharp handling. The bike is very comfortable to ride with one of the best seats in the industry. My body felt fresh even after a 10 hour day on the bike. The bike runs excellent, and is ready for the collector or the riding enthusiast, or both. All mechanical work was performed by a certified mechanic with 41 years of classic bike restoration experience. Comes with a clear CA Title. Shipping costs to the lower 48 States can run between $250-550 depending on your location. Arranging and paying for shipping are the responsibility of the buyer. I do have several shipping contacts that I am happy to share with you. The bike can be stored for several weeks (if paid for) while you arrange your transportation. International buyers are welcome. A deposit of $400 is due within 24 hours and is non-refundable. Questions - call Bill at (805) 708-1129. For more info visit my website at vintagemotofactory.com Check out my other items!
