Motorcycle specifications SuzukiRG 250 Gamma 1987 Suzuki's offensive

RGs weren't always Gammas. In the late '70s, RGs ape Yamaha RDs. The 250cc version was one of the finest examples.

In 1983, Suzuki couldn't let itself be left behind in the 2-stroke sportbike market. The RD 250 and 350 had taken the lead by switching to liquid cooling; Suzuki opted for a technological breakthrough (and seriously regained the advantage) by offering, with the RG 250 Gamma, a completely new engine far removed from its predecessor. The 250cc remains an in-line twin-cylinder, but opts for recent, competition-derived technologies: liquid cooling, super-square engine (Bore x Stroke = 54.0 x 54.0), AEC Automatic Exhaust Control (a system designed to improve torque and pick-up at low revs without handicapping the engine at high revs, rather like Yamaha's exhaust valve (YPVS)) and Suzuki Intake Power Chamber (optimizing carburation).

In its first version, this engine developed 45 hp at 8,500 rpm, 10 hp more than the Yamaha RD250LC and almost as much power as a 1982 RD350LC (47 hp, the RD also evolved in 1983 to 59 hp, then 63 hp in 1986). It's a raging performer, taking its turns like nothing. But while the Suzuki engine performs very well, it's fair to say that it has found a chassis to match.

the aluminum-alloy frame is equipped with an anti-dive fork and Full Floatter rear suspension. This combination not only provides excellent damping, but also reduces excess weight to a minimum. With its fairing (not quite full) and lightened alloy rims, the RG250 Gamma 1er du nom weighs in at just 131kg unladen and 153kg with a full tank.
The bike is light, maneuverable thanks to its 16-inch front wheel and fairly narrow-section tires and, what's more, very good at braking (260 mm double front disc with 2-piston opposed calipers).

What's more, Suzuki has hit the nail on the head when it comes to the beast's aesthetics, consigning all RG Gamma rivals to the status of little old ladies. The lines of this 250 are worthy of the competition bikes of the moment. And if the fairing isn't integral, Suzuki's accessory catalog offers a shoe to remedy the situation.

As it would later do with the GSX-R, Suzuki made it a point of honor to keep its RG Gamma at the top of its class. In fact, it underwent several major updates during its 5 years of production. The bike will evolve both technically and aesthetically. Suzuki also offered a special Walter Wolf series, named after a wealthy Canadian who financed a speed team at great expense.

The competition didn't leave the RG alone in the 250 supersport market for long: in 1984, Honda and Yamaha brought out their NS250R and Yamaha TZR250, which were at least as sharp as the RG Gamma. Kawasaki's KR250, although technically up to scratch, was a little out of date.

The RG 250 Gamma bowed out at the end of 1987 and was replaced by an all-new RGV 250 Gamma in 1988.

Tanthallas - Photos : Manufacturer