suzuki gt 550

Monkey man · Post by **Monkey man** » Mon Oct 13, 2014 1:42 pm

I have a gt 550 which I havent had too long - it doesnt have a grab handle on the frame to assit leverage when I haul it onto the centre stand. I have to grab under the seat which is awkward and doesnt inspire confidence.
My t500 has a grab handle and is much easier to man handle- is the bike missing something? Or has anyone added one ?

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Mon Oct 13, 2014 2:18 pm

I thought it was an optional part, but it shows in on the frame fiche as an original part. It has been obsolete for many many years. You know when these machines came out, anyone could get a dealership and a lot of them were very short lived. I imagine many were left off on original assembly in the US. You're only hope is to find a used one on eBay. Even if you do, it will most likely need to be re chromed. I tried to fabricate one out of electrical conduit but failed miserably.
I have a GS1000 that weighs way more than my 550. I used the seat as a grab handle for years and never had any problem. Just found a grab handle about 5 years ago.

CBWELLS · Post by **CBWELLS** » Mon Oct 13, 2014 4:13 pm

I don't recall any such lift point on either my past '72 or present '76 550, however, I currently use the mounting arm extension for the "backrest/luggage rack". It attaches at the top shock mount point & makes a convenient lift handle.

Knut · Post by **Knut** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 1:27 am

What CBWELLS said. The rack is best for lifting, I never trust the seat hinges for the weight. However, I don't have a center stand due to the chambers.
Here's a picture of mine showing the rack.

jabcb · Post by **jabcb** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 3:48 am

Pic of GT550 with grab handle that coyote mentioned.
I have seen them on eBay -- if you are patient one probably will eventually be listed.

jabcb · Post by **jabcb** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 3:52 am

Turns out a NOS grab handle currently listed for $80.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Suzuki-GT550-GT ... 0990220208

Coyote · Post by **Coyote** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 5:26 am

What a shame. The ad says it fits GS1000 which didn't come out until 1978. Also the part number for the GS1000 is different. 41610-49000. The handle he has listed fits GT550 and GT750 ONLY. The shame is the grab handle for the GS1000 is still available at $32.05, but won't fit the GT's. Inflation at it's best. The last listed price for the handle listed was $12.95

Monkey man · Post by **Monkey man** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 2:18 pm

Thanks guys - mine too has a grab rail fitted . I will try adjusting my technique to use this otherwise ill have to get the bullworker out of the box. I was very surprised to see the grab handle on e bay. At least I know they now exist.

pearljam724 · Post by **pearljam724** » Thu Oct 16, 2014 8:45 pm

A luggage rack or passenger bar is the way to go as far as assistance to lift the bike. The sides of those pieces pretty much have a grab bar as mentioned between the shock and signal in the same place as the grab bar.. If you don't have any of those items. The passenger pegs can assist you just as easily. Fold the peg upward and pull up as you're lifting the bike. Makes for a good handle that is sturdy.

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