Update 11.6.2018: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc
Today’s Featured Listing 1991 Suzuki RGV250Γ has styling cues very much like the four-stroke GSX-R of the period, and help the bike stand out as a Suzuki among the other bikes in the very competitive 250cc two-stroke class, even without their traditional blue-and-white graphics. Of course, if you’re missing out on shouty graphics, there’s still the RGVΓ, SAPC, and Made with the Grand Prix Spirit logos. This is actually a VJ22, the second generation of the little Gamma, and features a number of changes from the earlier VJ21.
The RGV250Γ followed the 250 two-stroke class template: a light and stiff aluminum beam frame, with an asymmetrical “banana” swingarm that allowed clearance on the right side for the twin “shotgun” expansion chambers in the case of the later VJ22 version seen here. The engine was a liquid-cooled, 90° two-stroke v-twin that eventually found its way into the Aprilia RS250 as well, along with Suzuki’s six-speed gearbox. The Suzuki version used “SAPC” or “Suzuki Advanced Power Control,” an electronic power valve and ignition timing system to boost the Japanese-market RGV’s out put from 45hp all the way to… 45hp. Yeah, these were restricted in their home market. Export models got more like 55-ish horsepower from the 249cc twin.
Combined with the bike’s sub-300lb dry weight, the bike offered plenty of performance for anyone willing to put in the effort to extract it. But straight-line power isn’t the point with any quarter-liter two-stroke: the RGV is all about corner speed and eats twisty roads for breakfast. The earlier VJ21 used a 17″ front and 18″ rear wheel like other bikes of the era, but the VJ22 used matched 17″ wheels front and rear, making it easier to fit modern rubber. Overseas, the RGV was a very popular little thrasher and fairly common, but these can be difficult to find. It’s ironic that, here in the USA anyway, the Suzuki-engined Aprilia RS250 seems much easier to find than the RGV250Γ that donated its engine.
From the Seller: 1991 Suzuki RGV250 VJ22 for Sale
Very rare in North America the Suzuki RGV 250 is a close as you get to a street legal bike from the golden era of GP racing. This example was imported from Japan and has Utah street legal title. The bike is runs well and was recently serviced with all fluids changed. This bike is un-restored and has several scratches and scrapes but for a bike of its age its in good condition. All mechanical parts function well. The bike has 8,837 kilometers on the gauges. Comes with a set of brand new Bridgestone tires that have never been mounted. $6,500 + buyer pays shipping.
The bike seems honestly presented and is in good, if not perfectly original condition. The levers, grips, rearstand spools, and brake lines aren’t stock and the color choices aren’t particularly subtle, but that’s fine, since you’d end up replacing them anyway if you’re going to ride it, or if you’re restoring it. The minor cosmetic flaws should be easily rectified without having to tear the bike down, and it would make a great, usable example.
-tad
