Suzuki’s RG500 was a celebration of 7 consecutive constructor’s titles in the 500cc class. The twin-crank, rotary valve rocket epitomized what we all love about two-strokes, particularly power and noise on the pipe. But the Suzuki RGB500 was the bigger, badder brother – closer to Suzuki’s race effort than you might imagine.
The crankcases, barrels, and engine layout were nearly identical to the race bikes piloted by Mamola and Sheene, and the bore and stroke were actually the exact same. The square four engine could wind up to 12k, though redline was at 10. Additions required to make it road legal increased the weight to about 340 pounds, but power was in the three digits with just mild tuning. Considered by some to be the most successful 500 Grand Prix bike ever built, the Gamma is a legend. Listen to one of these lovely bikes here (but you’ll want to skip ahead to about 1:00 in):
This example (VIN: 10003) features the low production number and was restored 15 years ago. Since the restoration, the bike has just done parade duty but it apparently competed in the Italian and European championships between 1982 and 1984, including the Imola 200 miles. Find this RGB for sale in Alcheda, Italy with bidding up to $11,211 and the reserve not yet met