Posts tagged as “Grey Market”

I Think I’m Turning Japanese – 1985 Suzuki RG500G Gamma

Published March 16, 2023 by Mike

Spring has not yet sprung, but the ring-a-ding-ding sounds of our favorite smokers continue this week with a very cool RG500 Gamma. We don’t see enough of these square-four monsters on these pages, and rarer still in the black & red livery. This particular bike is on the ground in Japan, purportedly a full-power example out of Australia. It doesn’t matter to me what flag it runs under, because as an American this is one awesome looking 38 year old piece of forbidden fruit.

1985 Suzuki RG500G Gamma for sale on eBay

The RG500 magic starts with the engine – which is actually TWO engines. Think of the RG as a pair of independent, parallel-twin, 250cc two stokes, complete with independent rotary valve induction (there is a very thin, Mikuni flat slide attached to every cylinder), exhaust and crankshaft. Now stack those two on top of each other, one right behind the other. Connect the two cranks via gearing, and route that whole hot mess through the gearbox. You end up with a very powerful, very compact and dense package that can be placed far forward in the chassis for optimal weight distribution. And speaking of chassis, that would be a double down tube cradle style affair, exquisitely constructed in aluminum alloy. A 38mm, air adjustable front fork and Full Floater single rear shock complete the package.

From the seller:
SUZUKI RG500G GAMMA(Type HM31A, motor type M301)Export car full power (Australian specification) There is an aluminum caution plate on the left side of the frame. (Year 1985)500cc 2-stroke square 4-cylinder full power engine It is a very valuable vehicle. First year registration date in Japan (April 1994)

*Restore & Custom*The engine has been fully overhauled at a specialty shop (there is a list of work, change parts, etc.).
* Replacement of uotani SP II coil, headlight relay kit, etc., harness wiring, other electrical system refresh (work, change parts, etc. list available).
* Restoration around the car body (work, change parts etc. list available).In addition, customization and maintenance at the shop
* Racing chamber for Sugaya 500 Gamma (at that time).
*Equipped with carburetor O/H setting and oil check valve.
* Ohlins rear shock (separate tank with height adjustment).
* O/H with white power front fork springs and hard OL.
* Change to external aluminum F sprocket outer plate.

More from the seller:
Restore & custom
The engine is full overhauled at a specialty shop (listed, changed parts, etc.).
*New speedometer at the same time as engine O/H.
Current mileage 6533km (30400km before O/H) There is a possibility that the odometer will increase due to handling.
*Replacement of uotani SP II coil, headlight relay making, harness wiring, and other electrical refresh (list of work, change parts, etc.).
#Restore around the body (list of work, change parts, etc.).
*Sugaya 500 Gamma Racing Chamber (at that time).
*Cabretta O/H setting, oil check valve is installed.
*Orleans -made rear shock (separate tank, vehicle height adjustment).
*O/H with white power front fork spring and hard OL.
* Changed to external aluminum F sprocket outa plate.
* Changed to XAM front sprocket, aluminum rear sprocket, 520 chain.
* Brembo front master cylinder
* Mesh brake hose before and after.
* Yamaha TZR High Slottle / OW type thin handle switch.
* Seat leather reupholstered
* Various bearings around the body, dust seal replacement.
* Suzuki genuine key x 2 (main key, gasoline tank opener, gasoline tank cap, same seat).
* At the time of sale, such as the body, front and rear wheels, exterior, it is almost for Suzuki genuine export. (FRP non-genuine under cowl)
* The inside of the gasoline tank seems to be rusted.
There is no big wound due to falls or accidents.
* Although it was stored indoors, there may be scratches, cracks, rust, dirt, etc. Be sure to check the image for used cars, and ask if you do not know.
* No issues with riding at the moment.
* Accessories other than the main unit (used goods include scratches, rust, dirt, etc.
* Buyers are responsible for paying transportation costs, taxes.
* An export cancellation registration certificate is attached.
* Tandem seat and manufacturer genuine 500 racing stand (at that time). If you wish,we will ship separately.

A full power RG500 is published as 95 HP – which is a fair amount of poke for a sub 350 pound (dry) machine. This gives the big RG its bona fide GP replica status, and general reputation as the fastest of the street-going two strokes. This one is safely tucked away in Japan, indicates nearly 23,000 miles on the KM clocks, and has been cared for and maintained in a manner that allows it to show very well indeed. Paperwork, shipping, taxes and importation hurdles notwithstanding, this auction has an opening ask of $36,500 USD (no takers yet) and a BIN of $48,000 USD. Check out all of the details here – including a walk around video – and Good Luck!!

Two Stroke Three Peat! 1992 Suzuki RGV250 with CA title

Published March 9, 2023 by Mike

Another day, another really cool 250cc smoker. And this one is properly titled and plated in the uber-restrictive state of California! While not as original/pristine as the earlier bikes, this 1992 Suzuki RGV250 is still one hot scoot ready for the canyons or the local race track.

1992 Suzuki RGV250 with CA title for sale on eBay

Like the Yamaha TZRs posted earlier this week, Suzuki moved away from a parallel twin to a V-twin format, providing tidy packaging and a more compact engine assembly. This allows for better placement in the chassis to maximize handling. And speaking of handling, as today’s seller has placed the registration on official non-operational status and used the bike as a track steed, he has also upgraded suspension and brakes. I recommend you read his advert text (below) carefully to see what is in store.

From the seller:
VJ22 RGV250 “M” model. This one is currently titled and registered Non-Op in CA with no fees. This bike has been upgraded with Andreani front cartridges and a Nitron R2 rear shock. It has a newer Tyga windscreen, a Tyga rear set, and Venhill steel braided brake lines. It currently has Dunlop Q3+ tires that have very few miles on them. The metal thing over the speedo is a lap timer mount for an AIM Solo lap timer. What is pictured comes with the bike, the lap timer does not. It is bolted on and can easily be removed if you don’t want it.

This bike was used as more of a track bike by me, which is why it was registered non-op. Starts easy, runs well. These little two strokes are screamers and are absolutely a blast to ride flat out. I am too big for it and not flexible enough to ride this bike anymore, a little age and several injuries. I would like to fund some upgrades to my track R6. I kept it CA titled and clear because these things are pretty dang rare to have on the streets in CA and always draw a crowd. “Mileage” is in kilometers, so the bike has a legit 7115 kms on it.

More from the seller:
The previous owner had an off in 1998 and it sat until I bought it in 2018. The only damage to the bike was body damage, hence the paint. I rebuilt the bike with the upgrades and used it as a track bike. There are some portions of the body that were fused with acetone prior to sanding and painting and with a close-up inspection, it is noticeable. With the Tyga rear set, the rear brake pressure is pretty light. I am not huge on stomping on the rear brake, but if your into that sort of thing you may need to work out a rear master cylinder that is a different diameter or something.

I would prefer a local pick up or I can meet somewhere, but if buyer wants to arrange shipping I will work with your shipper and entertain a bank transfer. I have some spares and take off parts. Mirrors, silencers, the factory rear set, the blinkers, stuff like that; it will all come with the bike. Pitbull stand is not included, but I will include a Pitbull head-lift stand insert that works with this bike.

Bike is located in Camarillo, CA

So while not really in the collector realm due to the non-original aspects, the RGV250 is still a very desirable model, providing a rare experience here in the US. This particular example has the ultra rare CA title, has seen some extensive upgrades for track day usage, and depending upon where the auction ends it looks to be a pretty interesting option for the pre-mix crowd. No bids with a $5k opening ask and only a couple days to go. Interested readers should check out all of the details here. Good Luck!!

Find Suzuki RGV250 parts on eBay!

5 Responses.

Double Header – 1992 Yamaha TZR250R 3XV

Published March 9, 2023 by Mike

If yesterday’s ’91 model year TZR250 in the muted grey colors didn’t quite get your motor running, how about a fresh-from-Japan ’92 model year in the bright and cheery white/red livery? This is a bike that looks like it is going fast even when it isn’t, and as a 250cc v-twin two stroke pushing a lightweight, aluminum-framed sport bike, it could actually back up those looks.

1992 Yamaha TZR250R 3XV for sale on eBay

The 3XV variant of the TZR converted the little 250cc two stroke from a parallel twin to a 90 degree vee – as was done by Suzuki with the RGV series. This allowed for the bike to be a bit narrower, generally improved packaging and weight distribution, and achieved perfect primary balance. While the latter is less important at the track for comfort, it does lead to higher revs and engine longevity and avoids heavy balance shafts or counterweights.

From the seller:
Recent acquisition from the Japanese market. If interested message me .New Michelin Pilots, runs amazing ,is nimble ,and unbelievably fast for a smaller displacement motorcycle. Japanese title and all paperwork included for transfer of title. 17800 kilometers. Trades for Ducati or MV’s or rare motorcycles considered. Video available upon request.

As a recently imported motorcycle (and no notes from the seller to indicate otherwise), this is a restricted home market machine. That means 45 buzzing ponies are the limit. De-restriction is possible, which generally consists of opening up the exhaust and intake. However – and RSBFS faithful help me out here – I believe that the updated 3XV platform requires ignition box changes to get beyond the government-mandated 45 HP limit.

This example looks to be very clean and quite free of corrosion or damage. There appears to be some minor scratching on the left side of the tail section, but not much else. There are some extra stickers on the bodywork, so hard to tell if those are covering up anything – but it certainly does not appear that way due to the rest of the condition of the bike. The KM clocks show just over 11,000 miles, and the bike comes with a Japanese title. Since it is over the 25 year mark, re-titling in most states (here’s NOT looking at you, California) should be possible. This looks cleaner than yesterdays example, with an opening bid of just $5k and a Buy It Now set at $11,500. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

Purchase Yamaha TZR250 Parts on eBay

One Response.

Grey Away – 1991 Yamaha TZR250 3XV

Published March 8, 2023 by Donn

Most small smokers came in race lookalike themes, but today’s rare TZR-250 draws fans with its chic subdued livery.

1991 Yamaha TZR250 for sale at Iconic Motorbike Auctions

Though legislatively limited to 45 hp, the 90 degree V-twin aboard the later 3XV variants is the most naturally balanced and capable of several more ponies with the right mods. The alloy twin spar chassis is also finished in grey, locating the 39mm USD forks and heavily buttressed Monocross swingarm. Longer geometry makes it a more stable perch than most 250’s, soaking up a mid-corner grab of the twin front disks without complaint. Popular updates include F3 kit for power, aftermarket pipes to increase ground clearance, and sticky 17-inch rubber.

On the buy-it-now page at Iconic, this TZR ships from Bayside NY and has a little bit of everything on display. NY registration and a moderate 10,916 miles, apparently original fairings with some repairable patina, and a bit of surface corrosion plus hardly used – if not fresh – tires. Caption from the Iconic classified –

During his ownership, the seller installed a new chain, new petcock, new battery, braided brake lines, and had an “overall service” performed.

On the concours ~ project continuum, this TZR might be toward the middle, but with enough originality to keep things interesting. Meantime the new owner can study the de-restriction issue and tend to their track day skills. Great way to start making bike and rider feel younger, without advertising !

-donn

Purchase Yamaha TZR250 Parts on eBay

90-Something – Honda CBR400RR / NC29

Published January 18, 2023 by Donn

Toward the end of the Baby ‘Blade’s development, Honda brought out a asymmetrical alloy swingarm which identifies this CBR400RR as a 1990 or later example. Thoroughly renovated by its owner, it’s waiting out the weather in the living room and still priced such that a shipping container beckons.

Honda CBR400RR / NC29 for sale on eBay UK

Mostly intended for the home market, the littler CBR continues to be a popular gray market import. Similarities with the flagship are many, with the twin alloy frame spars, twin headlights, 17-inch wheels, and of course lookalike livery. Because of the lofty rpm’s needed to generate its 59 hp, the 400 uses gear driven cams, giving it a unique audio signature. Dampers are on the budget end of the scale, but right-sized for the light weight, and dual front disks might have been a little more marketing than engineering.

Peculiar that this owner doesn’t state the year anywhere in the auction, but it looks great with many new parts and a nice rendition of the torn paper paint. Even if the odometer has quit, km’s are probably close and at 8,099 quite low. A long list of refurbishments in the eBay auction –

Since purchasing it in 2015 I have only done around 500 miles and spent a fortune on it.

I spent the first 12 to 24 months working on it with professional help.

It is/was always stored in a dry, dehumidified garage and only ever ridden by me in sunshine.

05-01-23 Just had 4 new plugs, 4 new carb seals, New brake fluid, MOT.

03-08-2019 New Coolant

05-07-2018 Carb clean and new jets.

14-02-2018 Front Fork Rebuild, Fork seals and fork oil, rear brake service and fluid.

08-06-2016 New Fairing Parts, New Ignition Switch, New Screen, New Hagon Rear Shock, New Chain & Sprockets, New Pirelli Diablo Rosso 11 Tyres, New Brake Pads Front & Rear,New Complete Stainless Steel Exhaust System & Black Widow Silencer(sounds awesome), New Fuel Pump, New Grips, New Handle Bars, New Mirrors, Pillion Seat Re Upholster,Speedo Converter kph to mph (works a treat, mph matches what it says on the clock, so much easier than trying to work it out or putting stickers on the clock), New Rectifier, Complete Motorcycle Re Spray By Dream Machine

Sounds fantastic and gets admiring looks wherever it goes.

There is a slight scrape to one engine casing (please see pic), but it never really bothered me so I never sorted it.

Also the odometer does not seem to be working but the trip does so again I never really bothered getting it sorted.

Yearly updates seem to have slowed to a crawl with the gull arm, and stopped in 1994, though some sources say the model was sold until the year 2000. Even the full-size FireBlade was a shoehorn fit, and the 400 has a second seat which should leave room for a size M rider. Even accounting for shipping and importation this CBR looks like a winner.

-donn

Instant Collection: Five 400cc sport bikes from the 1990s

Published May 12, 2022 by Mike

The 400cc sport bike set has been a hot topic on the pages of RSBFS, and were in fact part of the early focus of the site when it was entirely dedicated to finding grey market listings for sport bikes not originally imported into the United States. From those humble beginnings RSBFS grew to encompass the best of the rare and exotic, while continuing to harbor a soft spot for imports. Today’s collection of five members the 400cc club – one from each of the Big Four (plus a bonus Honda)- is definitely worth a look, even if some of the details are sparse and the bikes are located far, far away from US shores. The lineup:

Five 400cc sport bikes from the 1990s for sale on eBay

Honda VFR400R

Honda CBR400RR

Kawasaki ZXR400

Yamaha FZR 400SP

Suzuki GSX-R400SP

From the seller:
Collection of all the 90s 400cc sportbikes. All bikes are registered Hungarian bikes, with clean history. Will be sold with all necessary papers to register elswhere!

It is a one time opportunity to buy a collection like this!

These bikes are listed in a package deal on eBay in a Buy It Now (or best offer) format for $19,500 USD. Details are sparse, but as RSBFS writer and collector William notes: “The bikes are appealing, the package is interesting at that price point and the pictures are solid…a deal is always worth exploring.” You must admit that this flock looks great together. And given that the US shores has seen scant appearances of 400cc serious bikes between the 1980s Fizzer 400 and the more recent Ninja/CBR/R3/KTM offerings in 300-400cc sizes, these are undeniably rare in the US of A. You can check out all of the details here. Good Luck!!

2 Responses.

1989 Honda NSR250 MC18 For Sale!

Published April 2, 2022 by Doug

1989 Honda NSR250 MC18 For Sale on CL!

Make: Honda
Model: NSR250 MC18
Mileage: 22,281 km
Price: $14,000
Titled: Yes
Location: Calabasas, CA (Shout out to my boys from P.O.D.)

From the seller
Imported from Japan four years ago, registered in California and slowly restored to exceptional condition. One of the nicest MC18 examples to be had and they’re rare. Most are in poor or un-restored condition. Everything on this bike has been gone through and fixed, replaced or refinished. Compression is perfect, carbs cleaned/tuned and runs amazing. Zero miles on new Bridgestone tires.

– California Title/Reg/Plate
– De-restricted (60hp estimated)
– JHA pipes
– Magtek magnesium rims just repainted
– New wheel bearings
– New Bridgestone tires w/ zero miles
– New Rothmans bodywork, stripes corrected and inside of panels painted flat black
– New fasteners
– New windscreen from U.K.
– New Renthal grips
– Vintage Japanese BEET rear sets
– Reupholstered rear seat
– New lithium battery
– New regulator/rectifier
– New fork seals
– New oil pump seal
– Zinc-plated hardware

I assure you- that list isn’t telling the whole story, but the pictures will complete the list for you. Have a look and tell me what you notice . . .

I see hundreds of hours of elbow grease and several hundred dollars in cleaning supplies. Have you ever laid your eyes on a cleaner 2 stroke? I’m not sure they’re this clean from the factory!

Hello there, Mr. Beet! I think I’m more excited about seeing those in the wild than I am about seeing a MC18 🙂

I know it’s not original, the wheels have been resprayed and it has those pesky aftermarket fairings, but it is 33 years old and comes from one of the harshest environments for motorcycles and yet, it looks amazingly clean, fresh and ready to make some noise.

If you’re in the market for a solid rider this might be where you can punch your ticket, but as always, I’d suggest you reach out to the seller and do your own due diligence to get a better feel for it.

Let me know your thoughts on this good looking MC18 and Smoke’em if ya got’em!

Cheers!

Doug

One Response.

Featured Listing – 1992 Honda VFR400 NC30 For Sale!

Published January 18, 2022 by Doug

Update 1.18.2022: SOLD to an RSBFS reader in less than a day! Congratulations to buyer and seller!

Contact us to see if your bike qualifies for a Featured Listing! -dc

Make: Honda
Year: 1992
Model: VFR400 NC30
Location: Dover, Delaware
Mileage: 11,782
Price: $12,000
Contact: Steve at 302-672-7223 or steve@speedwerks.com

Steve Says:
This Honda NC30 is from our clients estate collection. We took care of the more modern machines and are very familiar with this bike in particular.
Imported recently, he had us install the Tyga exhaust and jetting work. We also upgraded the radiators and cooling lines. New Chain and sprockets along with a complete service and detailing. This NC has steel braided brake lines front and rear.
This is one of the nicest looking and running NC’s we have had come through here.
Legally imported with all documentation,this machine was not registered before he passed. At 25 years old and with all import documentation, it is ready to be titled in the new owners state and name.

Tyga states their full exhaust system coupled with their Maggot silencer adds 7hp bumping it to 59hp and reduces weight by 50% over the stock exhaust. If 59hp isn’t enough for you, I’m quite certain the boys have a few gallons of leaded Power Mist Fuel to help you reach 60hp. 🙂
As mentioned, you can see the new sprocket, chain and braided rear brake line.

This one hasn’t been out much and only showing 18,962km or 11,782 miles on the odometer.

Dressed in Honda Ruby Red, an 18″ rear wheel takes care of the party end while the 17″ front paired with 296mm dual discs handles the business end.

As you can see by all of the high-res images- this little VFR is in excellent condition and the boys at the shop have it ready to roll. As a matter of fact, this one is so nice it may be better served posted up on a race stand in the toy room.

FREE nationwide shipping is included in the $12,000 price.

Reach out to Steve at 302-672-7223 or steve@speedwerks.com if you’re interested.

Later-

Doug