Naked Motorcycles
1981Suzuki GS 550 L
22 fields on record
The 1981 Suzuki GS 550 L is an air-cooled middleweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking affordable, reliable transportation with classic styling. Its 549cc four-cylinder engine delivers smooth, predictable power ideal for commuting and casual riding. Known for its manageable weight and accessible performance, this model became popular among novice riders and those preferring practical everyday motorcycles.
- 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 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 | 1985 | 1986 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 549 cc | 549 cc | 549 cc | 572 cc | 549 cc | 572 cc |
| Dry weight | — | — | 186 kg | 186 kg | 186 kg | 186 kg |
| Seat height | — | — | — | — | 745 mm | — |
| Fuel capacity | 13 L | 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 1981 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 1981 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 1981 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Suzuki GS 550 L weigh?
The 1981 Suzuki GS 550 L has a Wet weight of 223.0 kg (491.6 pounds).
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