Photo: Thesupermat · CC BY-SA 4.0
Suzuki RG500 Gamma
89/100 Overall
77 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Suzuki RG500 Gamma vs Yamaha SR500
Suzuki RG500 Gamma scores 89/100 overall against Yamaha SR500 on 78/100. On the road: 77–73. As classics: 100–83. Overall result: Suzuki RG500 Gamma.
Yamaha SR500
78/100 Overall
73 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Suzuki RG500 | Yamaha SR500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 10 | 6 | Suzuki RG500 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 8 | Suzuki RG500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 7 | Suzuki RG500 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha SR500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 9 | Yamaha SR500 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Yamaha SR500 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Suzuki RG500 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | Suzuki RG500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | Suzuki RG500 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Suzuki RG500 |
Choose the Suzuki RG500 if…
you want a road-going Grand Prix experience, extraordinary two-stroke performance and blue-chip collector status.
Choose the Yamaha SR500 if…
you want simple engineering, traditional single-cylinder character and an agile motorcycle that is easy to understand.
Background
History
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.
Yamaha SR500
The Yamaha SR500 was produced from 1978–1989 and used a 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
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.
Yamaha SR500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
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.
Yamaha SR500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha SR500. Its library score for ownership appeal is 9/10. 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 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.
Yamaha SR500
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- 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 RG500
Rivals to the Yamaha SR500
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.