1992 Kawasaki GT 550 review from United Kingdom

Speed cables snap now and again.

rear suspension shot.

Introduced in the very early 1980's, this is a courier favourite. I came to them late in 1992, and it seemed a nice bike when new. My final drive on one was on a clapped out example in 2004. The suspension had either gone, or compared to a Honda Hornet, it has none. It is that bad. So I never want to ride another.

A tall upright bike with a 4 gallon petrol tank. A fuel gauge is included.

No wind protection is offered.

The speedo and rev counter break if the bike falls over, and they are very expensive to replace.

A rear carrier is fitted as standard.

It's quite ugly, not hideous like a CX 500, but just ugly.

Powered by a 50hp @ 9,000 rpm, 4 cylinder 2 valve per cylinder motor, it is no fireball. Top speed of around 110mph, and it returns 45mpg easily. It will cover high mileages without problems if not thrashed.

I have travelled thousands of miles on these bikes. They are dependable, having never broken down on me. Production stopped recently, so now only available second hand. A couriers bike or distance machine for a mature rider. Most are blue or red.

A dull but dependable machine.