SUZUKI RGV250 TIMELINE

1983 – 1987 RG250 Gamma

An alloy framed parallel twin-cylinder watercooled two-stroke that out-performed the RZ/ RD250 in almost everyway but was never as popular. 1983 model had only a bikini fairing. By 1987 the RG250 was fully faired.

1988-1989 RGV250 VJ21 J/K

The RGV hit the world by storm as Suzuki pushed the bike into many markets where the NSR was not available, instantly taking the 250cc two-stroke race replica market by storm. The bike was a no compromise production racer with lights. A 90º V-twin engine making 67hp@8500rpm, 128kg dry, 32mm Mikuni carburettors, single stage powervalves, 300mm twin rotors and Showa suspension went with the stunning GP styling. 1989 model also came in a Pepsi Suzuki replica, celebrating the GP squad’s association with the soft drink firm. Finally released in the UK with the K model, which also came in a cool Suzuki black…

1990 RGV250 VJ21 L: The L model – as tested here – had new fully adjustable rear suspension, 34mm carburettors and new colours.

1991-1992 RGV250 VJ22 M/N:

the M model was a major update, with a banana swingarm, new forks, new shock, two-stage powervalves, 17in wheels, revised exhaust pipes with dual exit on the R/H side for more ground clearance, weight was up 10kg to 139kg and an SP model was also launched with a host of extras including a dry clutch and closeratio gearbox and more power.

1993-1995 RGV250 VJ22 P/R/S:

Complaints against the use of the banana swingarm meant Suzuki had to update the RGV with a traditional, braced item for the final models seen in the UK. RGVS were officially imported in the UK from 19891996.

1996-1999 RGV250 VJ23 T/U/V:

Re-design saw a new, 70-degree two-stroke motor, restricted to around 40-50bhp in Japan, but capable of around 70bhp when de-restricted. New, swoopy bodywork and some came in the ‘Lucky Strike’ colour scheme.