When Suzuki introduced the RGV250, it was a revelation. MCN put it thusly: “back in the day 250cc race replicas were the sharpest handling, most frenzied, maddest things you could buy on two wheels. Nowadays the RGV250 is a modern classic and is probably a bit slower and softer than you’d remember. It still looks good, sounds amazing and the smell of burning two-stroke oil will take you right back. Put simply, it’s still sensational.” This example looks great in the Lucky Strike livery and it has the added touch of Kevin Schwantz’s signature, which he scribbled on the tank in the mid 90s. Problem is – it doesn’t run at the moment.
The bike got even better in the second generation (known as the VJ22), as shown in this featured example. The watercooled V-Twin engine got bigger carbs, bumping up output to 62 horsepower between 8-11k rpm. Later versions of this engine were actually shared with the Aprilia RS250. Other upgrades included a new swingarm that yielded better ground clearance and a stiffer rear end, though the next generation gained 22 pounds. For more information on this bike, check out the model history from SuzukiCycle.org.
This example has just 2,218 miles on the odometer, but the seller says that it requires a carb/power valve rebuild, oil change, and a new air filter. Considering the asking price, it’s a bit of a shame that he/she can’t get the work done first, but this bike is probably worth the trouble as it’s got a California plate and it’s currently registered until March of next year. The sale includes some spare parts and a sales brochure. Impressively, it’s being offered by the just the second owner, who has had the bike for 27 years.
Find this RGV for sale in Vacaville, California for $11,995 here on Craigslist.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by Frank S!