Suzuki RG250 Gamma
86/100 Overall
73 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki RG250 Gamma vs Suzuki RG500 Gamma
Suzuki RG250 Gamma scores 86/100 overall against Suzuki RG500 Gamma on 89/100. On the road: 73–77. As classics: 98–100. Overall result: Suzuki RG500 Gamma.
Photo: Thesupermat · CC BY-SA 4.0
Suzuki RG500 Gamma
89/100 Overall
77 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki RG250 | Suzuki RG500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 9 | Suzuki RG500 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 5 | Suzuki RG250 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Suzuki RG250 if…
you want a landmark lightweight race-replica with vivid two-stroke performance and major 1980s significance.
Choose the Suzuki RG500 if…
you want a road-going Grand Prix experience, extraordinary two-stroke performance and blue-chip collector status.
Background
History
Suzuki RG250
The Suzuki RG250 Gamma was produced from 1983–1987 and used a 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki RG500
The Suzuki RG500 Gamma was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 498cc liquid-cooled two-stroke square four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Suzuki RG250
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 247cc liquid-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, character.
Suzuki RG500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 498cc liquid-cooled two-stroke square four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Suzuki RG250
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RG250 Gamma. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki RG500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RG500 Gamma. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Suzuki RG250
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki RG500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Suzuki RG250
Rivals to the Suzuki RG500
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki RG500 Gamma wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki RG500 Gamma wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki RG500 Gamma takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.