Posts by Category: Suzuki

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Suzuki July 5, 2022 posted by Mike

Old School Cool: 1979 Suzuki GS1000S Wes Cooley Replica

It is no secret that RSBFS staff members love the old-school nostalgia of AMA Superbike racing. And when it comes to the ’79 Suzuki GS1000S, we have written about it several times. These were days of manly men, doing manly stuff with skinny tires, skinny fork tubes, and relatively flexy frames. And while one might deride a late 1970s ride as slow, wobbly and antiquated, this was the stuff of racing madness back in the day. Time and tech wait for no man, and clearly today’s electronics, braking, engine and aero tech have moved us forward. But when it comes to straight up riding, nothing beats a massive lump of 1,000cc of four stroke goodness. And today’s example is even more so, sporting some period correct Hideo “Pops” Yoshimura add-ons which increase the value, rarity, and performance.

1979 Suzuki GS1000S Wes Cooley Replica for sale on eBay

For more on the background of the Wes Cooley inspired GS1000S I could write up something to recycle all the old collective knowledge on the model and how it came to be. However the seller has already done so below, quoting liberally from this RSBFS post from 2020 (attribution really is the highest form of flattery, not to mention good form). All what was said in that article applies to this bike, however the Yoshimura Stage 3 kit adds horsepower the old fashioned way; displacement, compression and breathing improvements. This example also appears to be fitted with improved brakes (stock rotors appear tiny by comparison to these huge additions).

From the seller:
1979 Suzuki GS1000S Wes Cooley Race Replica w/ Rare Pops Yoshimura Stage 3 Full Kit! – $19,995 – WE TAKE TRADES! TOP DOLLAR FOR MOTORCYCLES, CARS, TRUCKS, RV’S, BOATS, TRAILERS, ETC – 315 Big Road Zieglerville PA 19492 – NATIONWIDE SHIPPING. 610-754-8500

1979 Suzuki GS1000S
Wes Cooley Race Replica w/ Rare Pops Yoshimura Stage 3 Full Kit.

This bike is a gorgeous 1979 Suzuki GS1000S. Often referred to as a Wes Cooley model due to the livery, however it was never marketed as such. Wes was a popular racer in Superbike and had some major success with Suzuki (AMA champion in ’79 and ’80) but failed to be honored with his own bike. Regardless, we still consider these models as Cooley replicas.

More from the seller:
The GS1000S was yet another evolution of Suzuki’s mainstay GS model. Climbing out of the ooze of the naked standard, the GS1000S showed its sporting intent with sophisticated air/oil front fork, and gusseted swing arm, and the requisite bikini fairing. But the real magic was in the steel connecting those pieces together. The frame was more robust than that holding up many contemporary bikes, allowing for better handing for what was not exactly the most powerful or fastest bike of the day. At the racetrack, this meant everything, and Pops Yoshimura breathed his magic on the motor to make up for the rest. In stock form expect the 997cc air cooled inline four to produce approximately 90 HP prior to the upgrades. This bike has a very rare Stage 3 Pops Yoshimura 1100 Big bore kit with short skirt/Slipper pistons, and camshaft.

It’s an original owner bike with only 20k. It also has period correct Billet Aluminum Performance Machine PM wheels, PM master cylinder, PM Calipers, and rotors. Numbers matching. Runs flawlessly. Just put about 50 miles going through the gears and making sure everything was in good working order. I opened her up in excess of 120mph just to shake off the cobwebs and she had plenty more. With the performance upgrades you get a much broader power band you’ll appreciate.

More from the seller:
This particular model was limited to a two year production run from 1979 to 1980. The blue/white paint was extra in the showroom, and the Cooley model was the most expensive GS offered by Suzuki for those years.

This bike is very clean, and has been very well cared for. That being said, these are reasonably rare 2-year only models, and few still around with low miles and fantastic condition. Only 500 were sold in USA and Canada.

Historically significant since Wes Cooley won the AMA Superbike Championship in 1979 and 1980. On October 16, 2021, Two-time AMA Superbike champion and two-time Suzuka 8 Hours winner Wes Cooley died at the age of 65.

Priced at $19,995 it’s a appreciating collectible that may never come up for sale again.

Over the years we have seen a fair number of these GS1000S models in reasonable condition. This particular bike has some upgrades, but is perhaps closer to the spirit of a Wes Cooley Superbike replica than the stocker. Regardless, this is one clean looking example of the breed that is being offered in a classified format. The price – like prices we have seen on motorized collectables everywhere – is high. If you want to party like it’s 1979, you’d better be prepared to pony up nearly 20 grand in today’s dollars. That is a lot, but these are relatively low volume, short production year bikes that you do not find every day. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

Suzuki July 2, 2022 posted by Donn

Featured Listing: 1992 Suzuki RGV250 Lucky Strike with California Plate and just 2,654 Miles !

Update 7.13.2022: Tom has confirmed this bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

RSBFS reader Tom’s RGV250 is almost half way through the 1988-1998 model run, but a gem with just a year’s worth of miles. The Lucky livery recalls riders like Kevin Schwantz and a wild ride to team success.

1992 Suzuki RGV250 for sale on BaT

62 hp is the quote from RGV250 reviewers, but the lightweight package claims a power-to-weight ratio of a larger bike. The 249cc twin is at its best, with multiple acronym-ed systems to optimize the exhaust power valves, mixture and ignition timing. Though the riding position was uncompromising, components like dual front brakes with four piston calipers, usd cartridge forks and gull-wing swingarm make it worth the workout. Shifter action was optimized, a help since RPM’s will want to be kept above 7,000.

Tom’s RGV250 has a flawless presence and ICU cleanliness. The stainless Arrow exhaust is noticeable at first glance, with scaled-down blinkers and braided brake lines. A start-up video is offered along with a walkaround, and quite a few detailed pictures – plus Tom’s notes from – the BaT auction –

This is an authentic Lucky Strike limited edition VJ22. All bodywork and fuel tank are original OEM Suzuki, and paintwork as well with the exception of a respray on the tailpiece. It had some scratches. This RGV has some tasteful mods that greatly enhance the riding experience. Including new Arrows coated stainless pipes, NOS Fox shock, billet rear-sets etc. Mileage on speedometer is not actual. The original broke right before 4,000 km’s. An NOS speedometer was sourced from Japan. Total KM’s is just under 4,300 (2,654 miles) It has an ultra-rare, clean California title in my name.

Aprilia’s comment on the VJ22 engine was that they adopted it to use in their own road-going 250 two-stroke, extending the engine’s post-RGV career. Never offered here, the age of the RGV’s has made importation easier, but a lot of grey-market bikes have been heavily worked and worked over. Tom’s has been carefully tended by him and previous owners, with just over 2,600 miles and a tune-up this spring. Though it is said that a special rider is needed to pilot an RGV250 effectively, it probably has a lot to teach any rider willing to listen.

-donn

Featured Listing: 1992 Suzuki RGV250 Lucky Strike with California Plate and just 2,654 Miles !

Suzuki June 17, 2022 posted by Dan

New Old Stock: 1989 Suzuki RG500 with 1 mile!

This has to represent one of the top 5 two strokes for any collector, and for those building a museum-like collection, this is about as good as it gets with just 1 “push” mile.

1989 Suzuki RG500 for sale on eBay

from the seller:

Museum Piece 1989 New Suzuki RG500 Gamma zero hour run time 2 push miles

This well documented RG500 Gamma was one of the last built. Its spent its entire life in England until 2021 when it was sold to a US collector and shipped to California. The bike has been feature in articles, forums and youtube over the years as it was on display in England. This bike is in mint condition and only shows the typical cracked tires as they are original and two scratches on the under belly fairing from loading. It comes with two factory keys, factory warranty card, registration card, suzuki owners card, application for English title and rear stand. The bike was originally offered by GS Motorcycles in Hillsborough County Down. This bike has been sold twice by Bonhams over the years at the International Classic Motorcycle Show. The ultimate for any two stroke 500cc collector.

Sold with a Bill of Sale and Cash only. I will not ship this, buyer must pick up. Please message me for viewing.

Northern California

This auction currently has about 6 days remaining and current bid is a tick over $65,000, reserve not met. Or skip the wait and just buy-it-now for $95,000! This will be a fun one to watch to conclusion. Happy Friday!

New Old Stock: 1989 Suzuki RG500 with 1 mile!

Suzuki June 9, 2022 posted by Donn

Think Small – 1987 Suzuki RG250 Gamma

Most often we find the junior two-strokes in a much sadder state, but this one has been given some recent attention. This Canadian example might be a good entrée into the smoky side of sportbikes.

1987 Suzuki RG250 Gamma for sale on eBay

Suzuki seems to have had a 247cc two stroke twin in the line-up forever, but the RG250 and Gamma took the model to sportier places. For 1986-7 the Mk. 3 Gamma used a power valve – Automatic Exhaust Control in marketing lingo. 49 hp was a slight increase but the width of the power band was the emphasis. Revised brakes were dual four-piston affairs, and the forks included an anti-dive circuit. The Full Floater monoshock had made its way over from the motocross side and allowed the shock to be positioned further forward, centralizing mass, and the fully adjustable shock could be shorter and use lighter springs. 16-inch front /18 rear tires have -80’s stagger, but with a 100mm section not much width.

Though not quite a full resto, this owner has done more than just paint work and gives some options to the next rider. Some rubber hole plugs and a bar-end mirror might slip this 250 through the air easier, and as problematic as they can be, some lower profile front blinkers seem to be in order. The white wheels are the next cosmetic item, or they could go black and pretty badass. With new tires, brakes and battery, more improvements could be made without taking it off the road. A short – video – is offered, along with notes from the eBay auction:

Numbers matching engine and frame and the bodywork is original – not aftermarket. Original Canadian Bike.

The bike was originally the two tone blue and white but was repainted in the factory correct 1987 colour red/black and white (it just looks better with this livery)

Sounds great – tons of power for the size and razor sharp handling with the aluminum twin spar frame (it was known as the first street legal race bike)

Parallel Two Cylinder with Suzuki’s AEC system – Automatic Exhaust Control – power is about 50 hp and weight is under 300 pounds! Full Floater Suspension, Six Speed transmission.

– Brand new tires

– Brakes fully rebuilt

– Brand new battery

– New upholstery on seat

Only the reserve will tell whether this owner considers this a finished piece or a nice rider with a few details to address, and of course repairs which any 35 year-old bike can expect. Many RG250’s are shown without the lowers, and the factory fairings are a strong positive. At this point in their lives, most have less miles but more corrosion on the exposed aluminum. A lot of pluses and minuses to weigh over the next few days.

-donn

Suzuki May 27, 2022 posted by Dan

1986 Suzuki RG500 with Lance Gamma Upgrades

The Suzuki RG500 needs no introduction on this website, especially when Lance Gamma has been involved in the updates. Rick Lance was the Jedi Knight of RG500 tuning and upgrades. A master of his craft.

This auction listing is currently bid to $16,100 and has a buy-it-now of $42,995. Somewhere in-between a buyer is going to score a straight up legend.

1986 Suzuki RG500 for sale

from the seller:

If you are looking for a completely stock Suzuki RG500, look elsewhere! If you are looking for an RG that was built to be all that an RG can be, read on! I found this 1986 RG500 over a decade ago through Rick Lance of Lance Gamma fame. While Rick is no longer with us, he was the “GO TO GAMMA GUY” until his passing a few years ago. He had worked with the previous owner of this bike to help him build a bike with all the best parts and technology available for an RG at the time. The project started with an original stock Canadian import bike (Km speedometer) in good condition with approximately 11,000 miles on it. The bike was disassembled as required and all aspects of it built to the highest specifications for a super fun street racer.

The engine was gone through, cranks rebuilt and new stock bore pistons and rings installed. A new Dyson NOVA close ratio transmission along with their Nova straight cut primary gear set installed to address the well-known weaknesses of the stock RG transmission. In addition, a Lance Gamma clutch kit was installed to alleviate any clutch related issues. A shifter support was added as well to alleviate another well-known RG weakness. Carbs were rebuilt with a set of Lance Gamma float valves and Tripod air filters added to maximize fuel and air flow. Last, a set of TC expansion chambers added to handle exhaust duties.

To accommodate the TC chambers, a modified Lance Gamma battery/oil tank relocation kit was added along with a super lightweight Shorai lithium battery. And to make sure there were no overheating problems, an oversize aluminum radiator was added as well.

Handling was addressed next. Per Rick’s recommendation, stock wheels were exchanged for a set of freshly powder coated 17” GSX wheels front and rear with custom machined spacers. These wheels are wider than stock, convert the stock 16” front rim to 17” and allow a much larger selection of high performance tires to be used. Front brakes were upgraded with the addition of GSXR calipers, EBC discs, and Galfer steel braided brake lines. A new aluminum front fork brace was added as well. At the rear, an Ohlins shock with adjustable ride height adjuster was added along with another Galfer steel braided line.

Last, to deal with the cosmetic cracking issues that the stock plastic fairing, belly pan and seat cowl had, an Air Tech fairing and rear cowl was painted to match the paint scheme of the original paint tank. There are a few very minor touch ups on the right side of the front fairing nose where another bike from my collection fell into it, but they are minor at best (see pics). There are also a few very small stress cracks in the white paint on the rear cowl that even Air Tech wasn’t able to avoid with expansion chambers in such close proximity (again, see pics).

Mod Summary:

· Dyson Nova Close Ratio Transmission
· Dyson Nova Straight Cut Primary Gears
· Lance Gamma Clutch Kit
· Lance Gamma Float Valves
· Lance Gamma TriPod Air Filters
· TC Expansion Chambers
· Oversize Aluminum Radiator
· Lance Gamma Oil Tank/Battery Relocation Kit (modified)
· GSX 17” Powder Coated Wheels
· EBC Front Brake Discs
· GSXR Front Calipers
· Galfer Steel Braided Brake lines (F & R)
· Fork Brace
· Ohlins Adjustable Rear Shock
· Ride Height Adjuster
· Air Tech Fairing Painted in Original Paint Scheme w/Sticker Kit
· Zero Gravity Windscreen

The previous owner enjoyed the bike for a 1000 or so miles after it was built and then passed it on to me. I GREATLY enjoyed it for a several hundred more miles and promptly ruptured two discs in my lower back and haven’t ridden it in anger since! I finally “pickled” the bike about eight years ago, and it has been sitting in my indoor collection since. I have finally come to the realization that my age and health will prevent me from enjoying it as intended again so it is time to pass it on to the next caretaker. It is the third RG500 I have owned and by far the best and most fun one of the three!

I have just changed the transmission oil, refreshed the brake fluid in both front and rear brake systems and put in new coolant. I’ve included some pics of the bike with the body work off so you can see just how clean this bike is. I also included a pic of the plugs as they came out of the bike from the last time it was run and put into storage (1-2-3-4 R to L, jetting is spot on!).

I’ve since started and run the bike using a 30:1 premix to be sure all is well (I have not fully checked the automatic oiling system but it appeared to working correctly after start). Started on the fifth kick after eight years! Everything works as best I can tell, but I would suggest a thorough recommissioning to be sure all is in order. Oh, and new tires if you intend to ride it in anger as it is intended. The Metzler ME3’s that are on it are over a decade old now! The bike also comes with two original Suzuki keys, the original owner’s manual, an original Suzuki shop manual, a variety of mods information and documentation, and both an original parts micro-fiche and a hard copy print out of it. Last, I DO NOT have any of the original stock parts. What you see in the pics is what you get.

As an ex-AMA Pro Roadracer, this bike is as close as you are likely to get to the riding experience of the TZ250 and TZ700 I raced back in the day. It is a VERY NICE survivor and one which I’m sure I will regret selling, but age and medical issues say it’s got to go.

This is a very nice example, but it is a USED motorcycle that is almost 40 years old and it is NOT perfect. It is sold as is where is with NO warranty, NO guaranty or any other kind of ”–ty”. The motorcycle has a clear Arizona title in my name with no liens so no issues there. I am happy to arrange a pre-sale inspection if you care to see it before you bid.

1986 Suzuki RG500 with Lance Gamma Upgrades

Suzuki May 26, 2022 posted by Norman

Save the Bees – 2008 Suzuki B-King GSX1300BK

2008 Suzuki B-KING GSX1300BK

A cool aspect about the motorcycle industry is that it’s driven largely by enthusiasts. When you have a bunch of enthusiasts who are ready to hand over cash or take out loans to buy things they really don’t need, well that’s when you get things like the B-King. Something that very few people asked for or needed but still exists because…motorcycles. But hey, I’m not complaining. Go big or go home. Why reuse a K5 GSXR motor for your naked bike when you can reuse a Hayabusa motor?

The B-King is a bike bike. No two ways about it. It weighs in at 582 pounds wet and has a 60 inch wheelbase. A bit heavier and longer than a Hayabusa. However, Suzuki has never been one to make a bike with bad handling characteristics. A B-King-specific frame and suspension package are paired with twin 310mm floating discs to make the bike tamable for the right rider. It takes up a lot of visual space too. The absurdly wide tank/motor section and sharp angles give the eye a lot to look at.

A couple scuffs are visible on the right side fuel tank cover from a drop which is mentioned by the seller in the listing. Body panels aren’t super easy to find but an NOS part out of Japan should do the trick.

The scrape on the starter cover is more of a turn off to me than the scuffs on the plastic. Scuffs on the right side are mentioned in the listing but this would be worth inquiring about. That being said, the bike still shows decent and these are pretty easy fixes. You should be able to recoup your money and then some since these are becoming quite hard to find.

The Yosh pipe is just one of many tasteful accessories the owner has installed. Overall, the bike looks stock which is the most important thing.

From the seller:

“…I am the second owner of this beauty and I have had her for a few years. Original owner was another enthusiast in Texas, he took perfect care of it and so did I. The bike has been regularly serviced by me, and is in overall excellent condition. Only ~9,300 miles sitting on the odometer; she has so much life left to live. This was my dream bike and I am lucky enough to have had her for years, but it is time to say goodbye sadly. Bike is accident free. One driveway drop (before me) left her with a few scuffs/scratches on the right side perfectly visible in pictures. Local pickup is in Northern, NJ or you arrange shipping.”

“The modifications are valuable and professionally done. Nothing has been done to the motor, so you don’t need to worry about that. Below are two lists, one of installed modifications and accessories, the other uninstalled ones. I am including EVERYTHING below, even the uninstalled modifications and accessories. Take a gander at these long lists:

Installed Modifications/accessories

-Yoshimura Brake/Clutch Fluid reservoir covers, titanium purple

-Yoshimura Full Carbon true dual undertail exhaust system

-Yoshimura Exhaust Heat Shield with rear blinkers, titanium purple

-Yoshimura License plate mount tail kit w/led taillight, titanium purple

-Tekarbon Full Carbon Fiber vented side panels

-RG3 Rear Shock

-SportBikeLites High Intensity Headlight

-Progrip Carbon Tank Pad

-Contour Protaper Mini High Handlebars

-Contour Protaper Handlebar Risers

-*NEW* Avon Storm 3D X-M tires, 200mm rear, 120mm front. These tires were put on last year and have about 150mi on them. Just about broken in, grippy but great overall performance.

-Custom aluminum “B-King” milled aluminum Crank Case Cover

-Hayabusa Kanji custom aluminum powder coated Engine Clutch Cover

-Puig Pro Frame sliders

-OES Frame Sliders

-CRG Bar end mounted mirrors

-Suzuki OEM Single Rider Rear Nacelle

Uninstalled modifications/accessories

-National Cycle V-Stream Windshield (mounting bars are already installed)

-Teka SFI Pro Tuner (new in box)

-MGK Laser Iridium Spark Plugs (new in box)

-HealTech X-TRE Power Box (for defeating the speed limiter and increasing throttle response)

-ABBA Superbike Stand

-Trackside Front Paddock Stand

-Nelson Rigg Touring Saddlebags”

There probably isn’t a single rider out there who isn’t curious about how far back the B-King will push their eyeballs into their skull. If you survive the first few months of ownership and you still want more out of it you can kit it out with a turbo. After all, the B-King concept debuted with a turbo and the “B” in B-King does stand for boost.

-Norm

Save the Bees – 2008 Suzuki B-King GSX1300BK

Suzuki May 22, 2022 posted by Donn

Clean Freak – 1985 Suzuki GS1150ES

Makers were working hard to stand out in the post-recessionary 1980’s, and Suzuki evolved their GS1150 into a GT that could pull a 10-1/2 second quarter mile. Today’s GS looks excellent and has had some recent tune-up work.

1985 Suzuki GS1150ES for sale on eBay

Suzuki’s 1135cc mill was an incremental update from the 1100, air cooled with two cams and four valves. 114 hp were readily available, thanks to four 36mm Mikuni carbs. A new square-tube chassis was commissioned, with air-adjustable Kayaba forks and a Full Floater monoshock. Suzuki’s Positive Damping Force anti-dive system combines with a 16-inch front wheel to help in the twistier bits. The distinctive fairing makes a generous hole in the windrush, helping win the 200-yard roll on contest with a 50-to-90 mph run.

Offered by a dealer that seems to pay the rent with a line of pressure-washing trailers, this GS shows under 8,000 miles and had me thinking re-paint, but the overall condition makes that more of a question. Maybe the plastics had a rather liberal splash of protectant, but the metal finishes look like they haven’t spent much time in the hot Texas sun. Love the black chrome mufflers. The seller states they can broker the shipping and has a few comments in the eBay auction-

If you are old enough to remember the debut of the Suzuki GS1150 ES, you remember they were the King of the Hill.

These days these bikes are rare to find – especially in this condition!

This bike is an incredible, unmolested survivor with only 7,600 miles!

Complete recent service including ultrasonic carb cleaning. oil/filter change, new plugs and valve lash check.

Starts/run and stops like it should – everything works!

Beside external GPz/V65/FZR pressures, Suzuki had their own Katana and GSX-R1100 ready, and the GS1150ES was retired after 1986. Reviewers set the PDF forks on their lowest setting ( or disabled them entirely ), and squawked a mid-range vibration in the bars and pegs. Drag racing success meant relatively few survived the long term in anything like the condition seen here. Looking forward to seeing where the reserve is set !

-donn

Suzuki May 21, 2022 posted by Mike

The Big Kat: 1982 Suzuki Katana 1000

If you are an enthusiast of a certain age, big bore nostalgia simply must look something like this 1982 Suzuki Katana. Designed by Target Design of Germany (with key member Hans Muth involved), the Katana was a stunning departure from motorcycle design of the time. This was a bike that looked mean and ready to hurt you just parked on the showroom floor. If it were a dog, it would growl at you as you approach. Dominated by motor and angular bodywork, the Katana also had subtle elements such as the nifty all-in-one gauge cluster, the offset gas cap, and the two-tone seat.

1982 Suzuki Katana for sale on eBay

Strip away the iconic bodywork and the GSX transforms into what is essentially a more pedestrian GS. The air-cooled mill, the 4-valve heads, the 5-speed transmission… it was already there in the parts bin just waiting to be used. But Suzuki put it to good use in the creation of the Katana, a bike that differed surprisingly little from the stunning concept bike unveiled just a year earlier. From the original model spawned many variants and sub-variants, both in terms of capacity (i.e. extending the Katana name throughout the lineup), as well as different versions of the big bike.

From the seller:
1982 Suzuki Katana 1000
14,505 Original Miles
Engine, carburetors and exhaust completely stock
Brake system overhauled
Recently serviced
New clutches
New throttle cable
The original black chrome exhaust is in excellent condition
Stater cover has minor scratches.

The seller has included a video walkaround tour of this particular bike here:

There is some confusion concerning this particular example. The eBay advert clearly states this is a 1000, but the supplied video calls it out as an 1100. Both are possible, but the 1100 is more likely due to the rarity of the 1000cc homologation models (Suzuki was targeting AMA racing at the time). A VIN check could help here, but none was supplied. Additionally, the seller states the original black chrome exhaust is in excellent condition – but I see bright chrome in the pictures. That could be lighting or perspective as well, so possibly not an issue. There are some non-stock mods that I see including flush-mount turn signals front and rear and what appear to be non-OEM brake lines and fittings. That is really only critical if this is to be considered an investment machine, as stockers continue to command the highest market prices.

This auction is going on now in a classified, Buy It Now format. The seller is asking $19,500 for the bike which in today’s market might actually be going rate for a top line GSX1000S / GSX1100S, if not a little optimistic. We don’t see these time machines come through much anymore, and the stock on hand is certainly dwindling. That makes this a pretty rare find (even during the springtime high season), and interested parties might want to check out all of the details here. Good Luck!!