78' gs400

[78_GS400_Canuck]

Hi there Suzuki GS fans!
I have introduced myself before but got no response so I thought I'd try again. I have a 78 GS400 as a project. I don't have my bike license, but I plan on changing that. Before spring 2011 the GS sat for 15 years. With very little work we got her running now the real work begins.

The main issue now is the front brake and the ignition switch. The front brake is on all the time. If you bleed the caliper it lets off till you use it again. I am thinking there is a restriction in the brake line or master cylinder. The issue with the ignition switch is that it needs the wires connected again.

I am also curious about what preferences people have for exhaust and tires.

 

[obsidianghost]

Sorry you didn't get welcomed before. It looks like you've got a nice little project there. I haven't used them before but I'm getting a set of Avon Roadriders as soon as I have the cash.

 

[oldpara]

Very nice looking bike, great condition for 78.

 

[78_GS400_Canuck]

Thank you for the welcome comments . Yes it is in great shape, I discovered last summer that the mufflers are starting to rust through on the bottom. It only has 14,000 km on it and the seat is perfect, no rips and or noticeable wear. I have new floats and seals for it we suspect one of the floats is taking on fuel, it quit on a test drive last summer. I have had a hard time finding replacement o-rings for the carb drain plugs.

 

[Englishman]

Hi there

Sorry I missed you first time around. I have a 78 400 project of my own at about the 50% complete stage right now. I just fitted Avon Roadmasters but it will be months before I can report how they ride at my current rate of progress.

Exhaust wise you have few options. Mac makes the only system specifically for the 400/425/450 and it's a 2 into 1. If you want to keep 2 into 2 looks then it's the parts catalogue, eBay and alike and self fitting and maybe development to install and jet.

Good luck and post lots of pictures
Mark

 

[tkent02]

I am thinking there is a restriction in the brake line or master cylinder.

Correct, take it apart and see what's inside. It won't be pretty.

Tires, Avon Roadriders are seriously great tires for these old bikes.

 

[Guest]

Welcome! No idea how I missed your thread last time... typically I'm all over any new twin popping up on here...

Anyway, looks like a nice little 400 you got there

 

[78_GS400_Canuck]

I was actually looking at the Mac 2-1 exhaust, I think it would be a nice touch. I don't have much experience with bikes. Does anyone know what Mac's system are like? I will have to check out those tires.
Tonight I removed the master cylinder and caliper and I am going to clean cleaning them at school tomorrow. The caliper slides freely which is a good sign. Before you'd have to bleed off the brake a bit so you could move it around.