Vintage MC site with early suzuki models

[suzukijo]

http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iom1960.com%2Fmenu.ht ml&sl=ja&tl=en&hl=en&ie=UTF-8

clik on photo album on right side of page, blue highlighted pics view large.

related information, near the bottom of page begins with 'development of GS series'
a lot of information, the deeper you get. certainly very early pictures, and difficult to read, but fascinating history.

[AXEL]

Interesting read on the RE5 development roundabout. Funny translation "RE5 is the first prototype of a devious attempt lightly" ? Knew Yamaha had a wankle prototype but didn't know Honda and Kawasaki had them as well.

[suzukijo]

reproducing some of those pictures, from table 15

http://img378.imageshack.us/img378/9311/hondawankelrq5.jpg

http://img378.imageshack.us/img378/7725/kawasakiwankelxq9.jpg

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/4850/yamahawankelrs1.jpg

the rotary story is difficult to tell, and full of speculation.
one common understanding, is the GS model line benefited greatly from the research during rotary development. the GS750 becoming a truly great motorcycle, (but not worth much in todays market), and comparing engine design to the gsf, the simplicity of the central cam chain and crankshaft end mounted generator can be seen in the bandit.

[AXEL]

I'm a big fan of the early GS series. My first street bike was a good used '78 GS750. I still think it was one of the best looking and performing bikes of the period. Would like to find another to add to the stable.