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GT380 1976
Posted: Mon Dec 15, 2014 2:31 pm
by cameron
Hi,
I have just purchased a 1976 GT380. How can I tell if it's a UK bike or import? I does not have a front brake light switch? Is that correct?
Can anybody shed any light for me please.
Cameron
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Mon Dec 15, 2014 2:36 pm
by yeadon_m
Nice bike

I would think its UK as the side reflectors would be red if from the US. Unlike some of the larger GTs I don't think there were any differences UK vs US, perhaps the headlight / handlebar switch didn't have a P for Pass button? or was 'always on'? if you can select light and then beam, and also have a P button on the left bar, I'd guess UK.
No documents to tell you? or stickers on the headstock?
The front brake light switch is an optional fit and you will see two small bolt holes under the m/cyl. The wiring for the switch is a loose orange and a white in the headlamp. Pop the reflector out, connect those wires and turn on the ignition, your brake lamp will come on.
The only non standard thing I can see is the gaiters on the forks. I put some on my own GT380 for chip protection back in the day but on restoration I now go 'naked' again

Good luck,
Mike
GT380B, GT550B, GT750A
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Mon Dec 15, 2014 3:43 pm
by Craig380
It's looking in pretty nice nick overall, good find. Enjoy her!
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Mon Dec 15, 2014 7:00 pm
by Coyote
The bike appears to be a 76, except for one thing. The front fender is not correct. The 76 only had one fender stay (rear). Pre 76 had 2 stays like pictured.
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 2:08 am
by yeadon_m
I think the GT380A had two stays, oddly enough, where the GT550A had one. The B models both just had one stay. I might be wrong.
Mike
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 2:26 am
by Craig380
Like all the manufacturers, Suzi also used up old parts stock during the transition to new models, leading to some anomalies ...
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 7:45 am
by Coyote
Taken from the Suzuki model history site. One stay
http://www.suzukicycles.org/photos/GT/G ... de_450.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: GT380 1976
Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2014 3:28 pm
by yeadon_m
Coyote, I stand corrected

Cheers,
Mike