Naked Motorcycles
1980Suzuki GS 550 L
22 fields on record
The 1980 Suzuki GS 550 L is a lightweight middleweight sportbike ideal for novice and intermediate riders seeking an affordable entry into motorcycling. Known for its responsive DOHC four-cylinder engine and nimble handling, this air-cooled machine delivers punchy performance with manageable power. The GS 550 L remains celebrated as a reliable, easy-to-live-with classic that defined an entire generation of accessible Japanese sportbikes.
- Capacity
- 549.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 223.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 9200 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's a classic sport-touring middleweight best suited to spirited backroad rides and moderate-distance trips rather than outright speed or long-haul touring comfort.
- Built for
- Smooth, revvy inline-four charm with a classic 1980s Japanese UJM feel, rewarding riders who enjoy mechanical simplicity and analog engagement over modern refinement.
- Not ideal for
- It's not the right choice for riders seeking off-road capability, high-speed touring comfort, or modern braking and suspension performance.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 549.0 ccm
- Power
- 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 9200 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2152 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 56.0 x 55.8 mm
- Compression
- 8.6:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet multi-plate type
Performance
- Top speed
- 158.0 km/h (98.2 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 3.75-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1982 | 1983 | 1985 | 1986 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 549 cc | 549 cc | 572 cc | 572 cc | 572 cc |
| Dry weight | — | 186 kg | 186 kg | 186 kg | 186 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 13 L | 13 L | 9.1 L | 9.1 L | 9.1 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Suzuki GS 550 L?
The 1980 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Capacity of 549.0 ccm (33.50 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Suzuki GS 550 L have?
The 1980 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Power of 48.0 HP (35.3 kW) @ 9200 RPM.
How many gears does the Suzuki GS 550 L have?
The 1980 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Suzuki GS 550 L weigh?
The 1980 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Wet weight of 223.0 kg (491.6 pounds).
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