Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1974 Suzuki T500 Titan.
From the late 1960s until the early 1970s, two stokes dominated the motorcycle market. With their narrow power bands and thrilling rides, such high-revving, oil-burning bikes attracted riders from far and wide. By and large, however, motorcycle manufacturers believed that an air-cooled two stroke larger than 350cc in displacement would be impractical to build. If it didn’t somehow overheat, surely it would be unmanageable to ride and impossibly expensive to fill with gas.
With the introduction of the T500 in 1968, Suzuki put that myth to rest. Not only was the Titan free of any cooling issues; it was also quiet, user-friendly, and incredibly reliable. In many ways, it was an ideal commuter.
Suzuki’s T-series applied to bikes with displacements ranging from 90cc to 500cc. This was the big daddy, with a 492cc engine that was all but bombproof. It produced 47 horsepower, capable of getting the Titan up to 105 miles per hour. Check out a helpful write up from Motorcycle Classics about why the Titan was so underrated, especially compared to the Honda CB450 Black Bomber, here.
Manufactured June 1974, this example is VIN: T50072974. The seller states, “One of our first purchases at Mecum. January 2017 Lot F284. Looked good, had low miles and seemed a decent buy. Took next to nothing to get it running. Installed new tires for safety. Basic services; fluids, petcock, points and condenser, battery. Rode it around a bit and took it to some local bike shows. Tagged (and bagged) as “last started 2/9/19, all good, drained, bowl drains open”. Been in decom state since that time. A sitting time capsule with low miles. Moved on to other bikes and this one of the first we’re going to let go.”
The odometer shows 5,124 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “Bike was in good shape at time of purchase. New tires fit, tune up and basic services. Question about the rear sprocket being correct due to lack of holes. Possibly changed by prior owner.”
Modifications:
“Rear grab bar fit.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Duro tires with date codes of 2519 and 1320.
The sale includes two keys, owner’s manual, service manual, and tool kit.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Coloring on Suzuki red tank logo is faded.”
Currently located in Tempe, Arizona, this Suzuki is offered on a clean Arizona title. Have any T500 Titan stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
