Description
This motorcycle is Lot 282 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 101 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 282
1974 Suzuki 739cc GT750L
Registration no. MCY 395M
Frame no. GT750-45860
Engine no. GT750-53587
US import
Extensively restored in the UK 2019/ 2020
First registered in the UK in 2022
Present ownership since June 2024
Launched at the Tokyo show in 1971, Suzuki's new GT750 flagship was, as its name suggests, more Gran Turismo than outright sports bike. First of a family of Suzuki two-stroke triples, the newcomer retained the cylinder dimensions of the existing T500 air-cooled twin, but with the added refinements of water-cooling and an electric starter. The gearbox was a five-speeder. A maximum power output of 67bhp was claimed and the GT750 could attain around 115mh flat out; arguably more important, though, was the big Suzuki's effortless cruising capability: its maximum power was made at a relatively low 6, 500rpm while ridden gently it could deliver around 40mpg on a run. Deliveries to the UK commenced in 1972.
Modifications to the original 'J' model were not long in coming, the GT750K gaining twin front disc brakes (replacing the original double-sided drum) for 1973. "It's solid and utterly secure at the ton and comfortably relaxing in a way that only a heavyweight cruiser can be, but it's also perfectly manageable trickling along at walking pace," declared Bike magazine, testing the GT750L. Development continued through the 'M', 'A' and 'B' models before production ceased at the end of 1977.
A US import, this wonderfully presented Suzuki GT750L was extensively restored by the previous owner circa 2019/ 2020 as evidenced by numerous invoices for parts on file. The machine was first registered on 1st August 2022 and has belonged to the current vendor since 17th June 2024 - him having won the machine via a Classic Motorcycle Competition. A video of the machine running may be viewed on the Bonhams Motorcycles' web site. Additional documentation consists of a Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club dating letter; HPI check printout; DVLA correspondence; and previous/ current V5C Registration Certificates. A few used brake components and a 'Suzuki GT750' baseball cap are included in the sale. Keys present.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
