Suzuki saved their best 250 two-stroke for last, with many updates for the VJ23. Today’s RGV250 recently became easier to import because of its age but sparkles like a much newer machine.
1996 Suzuki RGV250 VJ23 ( South Africa ) for sale on eBay
A lot of interesting tidbits deep in the VJ23 specs, such as the narrower 70-degree vee, almost square bore and stroke, making almost all of the engine brand new. The power valve and ignition are under electronic control, extending the mid-range powerband, and fresh air comes right through the frame. 41mm USD forks are fully adjustable, and brakes are actually 10mm smaller but still plenty for the under 300 lbs. dry weight. Tire sizes are still staggered 17 front / 18 rear, and the ’96 came with electric start, somehow without increasing mass.
Coming from way off shore a pre-purchase look see will be tough, but the owner may not have factored that into his starting bid. Luckily the photos are all one could ask, and the condition is too. Comments from the eBay auction:
Thanks for taking the time to look at a unique rare piece of two stroke history.This authentic full power V model is one of only 119 units produced.The total number of VJ23,s ever produced is 2018 units (That includes the 119 V models).Some of the features that defines it from the regular JDM VJ23 are:Both front and rear tyres have been replaced recently with a sticky fresh matching set of Pirelli’s.She is in great mechanical and cosmetic condition.
- Large black identification plate on the right side of the frame’s headstock.
- 240 kph speedometer instead of 180 kph item.
- Four teeth smaller rear sprocket (42 tooth instead of 46 tooth)
- Light grey rear master cylinder cap instead of black.
- Different exhaust and silencer markings.
- Revised airbox lid.
Here’s what’s included in the sale:
- Original full power factory exhaust pipes and silencers.
- Pillion footrest hangers and pegs.
- Pillion rear seat.
- Tool kit.
- Owners manual.
Since few stateside riders knew what they didn’t know, the RGV would live on the track and an occasional grey market import, until the market recently warmed up with the end of the EPA blackout period. Not sure about CA, but 49-state registration shouldn’t take heroic effort. Small parts for a big rebuild though, could take some time. Nothing the new owner of this RGV should have to worry about anytime soon.
-donn
I used to want one of these but that was before Suzuki discontinued. Brand new crankshaft and all crank parts along with the pistons. There’s like zero aftermarket or reproduction available either.
It’s very sad but it was a one year production run model. Sure There’s talk of using RM 125 pistons in it but that’s a band aid fix. The vj23 exodus is beginning. My opinion now is the older rgv’s are gonna be more valuable. If you want one to ride and enjoy.
There’s still a lot more stuff available for them oem and aftermarket. Until someone starts making reproduction parts for the vj23’s.
Well, I guess if you’d be able to fork out that much, you’d just buy another one as a spare.
The wheel diameters are 17 inches for both the front (110/70/17) and the rear (150/60/17) wheels.
Not staggered (17 inches front and 18 inches rear) as mentioned in the article above.
He mentions every export / full power part except the all important 42E10 ECU. I actually have 1 left and a set of the 240kph clocks for a VJ23 if anyone is wanting to have a export clone.
The seller has added a startup video: https://youtu.be/AWHtvZqSLoM and has confirmed the CDI(ECU) units part number as 32910-42E10 (Full power export model CDI).
This is THE 250 to buy. Factory Full power VJ23V in lucky strike livery with Suguya pipes. It’s awesome. His price is about right given location. In the USA, this bike titled is $20-25k.
The Suzuki on the gas tank is wrong. Then there’s the above mentioned problem of no longer available pistons. And I’ve noticed a dumping of parts within Japan very recently because of the discontinued parts. So unless you want it for wall art. Enjoying it without fear of wearing it out is no longer a reality with this bike.
Smokin,
What is the issue with the tank ?