How to identify a 76 GS750?

[Guest]

A friend of mine recently picked up a GS750 and is trying to figure out if it's a 76 or a 77 model. Aside from paint schemes and the single caliper front disc, is there a way to tell the difference between the two? A couple Google searches found that the VIN for the 1977 GS750's started with "Gs750-10001", but we can't find much info about the 76's.

Is there anything on the frame that changed after the first year? I know that gas tanks, seats, front ends, etc can all be swapped, that's why I ask specifically about the frame.

And sorry, no pictures yet.

[tkent02]

The ignition switch was different on the early 750s. Not sure if it was 77 too or just in 76, it was offset to the right side a little. Look at a parts fisch to see which year.

[bigskybldr]

At least the early U.S. '77 model came with only a single disc up front.
I thought I read somewhere that Canada and Australia was the test market for the '76 GS 750 and that the US didn't get them till the '77's came out, I could be wrong on that tho.

[78gs750e]

the 750 was offered in two models the base with wire wheels a flat seat and the single front brake. Then in 78 I think they came out with the E which had a stepped seat, mags, and dual front brake. All 77's had the ignition switch mounted in the gadge pannel and had a separate fork lock, then in 78 up the ignition switch was moved to the center and attached to the tripple tree.

[chuck hahn]

As I understand things, the 76 IS a 77. The "76" was simply the first batch that was sent to the Canadian and a few other "test markets" before they were shipped to the USA. Same exact bike. See my album for lots of 77 pics..note the ignition was integrated into the dash and offset to the right so they could add their Suzuki button emblem to the left side.

[GS ace]

This just reminded me that I have a '77 gauge cover for sale. No nicks but the white detailing (paint) is worn in some spots.

[chuck hahn]

I am interested Frank...PM me some pics???

[Big Rich]

Thanks fellas. I have yet to see the bike myself, so I'm curious about it too.

[chuck hahn]

The 78 will have the separated ignition that's just nestled into the U shaped area here...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1979-Suzuki-GS750-GS-750-S287-gauge-cluster-instrument-panel-speedo-tach-/230982481432?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35c7a0f618&vxp=mtr