Segment:
Lightweight Two-Stroke Sportbike
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented riders, track day enthusiasts, and classic sportbike collectors.
Key Competitors 1994:
Yamaha YZF600R, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6, Suzuki GSX-R600 (though RS 250 occupied a niche)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Potent 250cc two-stroke V-twin engine, exceptional handling derived from Grand Prix racing technology, lightweight chassis.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, 90-degree V-twin
Induction System:
Reed valve induction, Twin Mikuni TM33SS carburetors
Power Delivery:
Vibrant mid-range and top-end powerband characteristic of two-stroke engines.
Suspension Design:
Telescopic front forks (often with adjustable preload and damping), Monoshock rear suspension.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, often with prominent Brembo or similar high-performance components.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, top-end and bottom-end procedures, piston, cylinder, crankshaft, and gearbox disassembly/assembly.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni T M33SS) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, fuel tank, fuel pump, and fuel lines.
Lubrication System:
Oil injection system, oil pump, oil tank, and lubrication points.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery, lighting, starter motor, and comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheel bearings, and swingarm.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, brake fluid replacement, and bleeding.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting, and other body panels.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire replacement, wheel balancing, and spoke tensioning (if applicable).
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance checks, fluid level checks, lubrication, filter replacement (air, oil - if applicable).
Tune Up:
Spark plug replacement and gapping, carburetor synchronization and adjustment, ignition timing checks.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding based on symptoms.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, tolerances, and adjustment specifications.
Updates:
Information on any service bulletins or updates applicable to the 1994 model.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Configuration:
Liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, two-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
54 mm x 54.5 mm (approximate, derived from RGV250)
Compression Ratio:
7.5:1 (approximate, can vary by market/tune)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Reed Block Design:
Petal reed valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, depending on market restrictions)
Torque:
Approx. 35-38 Nm (at crankshaft)
Redline:
Approx. 11,500 - 12,000 RPM
Carburetor Type:
Twin Mikuni TM33SS flat-slide carburetors
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed with electric fuel pump (for crossover)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 95 RON)
Oil Injection:
Automatic oil injection system
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle)
Braking Performance:
Dual front disc brakes (e.g., 320mm) and rear disc brake, providing strong stopping power.
Suspension Stability:
Well-tuned suspension provides excellent road holding and stability.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, and turn signals for visibility.
Chassis Integrity:
Robust twin-spar aluminum frame designed for rigidity and handling.
Rider Ergonomics:
Sportbike riding posture, which can be demanding but offers control.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic Sportbike Design)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (Emphasis on rider skill and feedback)
Ignition System:
Digital CDI ignition system with ignition timing adjustments.
Power Valve Control:
Mechanical operation of exhaust powervalves for broader power delivery.
Oil Change Engine:
Recommended at specified mileage intervals or as per manual, typically every few thousand miles for gearbox oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at intervals of 3,000-5,000 miles or annually.
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Check and clean/replace every 3,000-5,000 miles, depending on operating conditions.
Coolant Replacement:
Recommended every 1-2 years.
Chain Lubrication:
Regularly, every 300-500 miles and after riding in wet conditions.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Recommended every 1-2 years to maintain performance and prevent corrosion.
Engine Oil Type:
Two-stroke motorcycle oil, specifically for liquid-cooled, high-performance engines (e.g., Castrol TTS, Motul 710 2T or equivalent).
Cooling Fluid Type:
Mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified by manual for higher boiling point).
Two Stroke Maintenance:
Two-stroke engines require diligent maintenance, including proper oil mixing and attention to carbon buildup in exhaust ports and power valves.
Power Valves:
Mechanical power valves can seize if not properly cleaned and lubricated, impacting performance.
Carburetor Tuning:
Mikuni TM33SS carburetors require precise synchronization and jetting for optimal performance, especially at different altitudes or with aftermarket exhausts.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch plates can wear due to aggressive riding; regular inspection and replacement are necessary.
Electrical Connections:
As with many bikes of this era, electrical connections can be prone to corrosion or loosening; regular checks are advised.
Brand Origins:
Italian manufacturer with a strong racing pedigree, particularly in Grand Prix motorcycle racing.
Development Basis:
Heavily based on the Suzuki RGV250 Gamma, utilizing its engine and chassis design principles, with Aprilia modifications and styling.
Significance:
A highly acclaimed lightweight supersport that offered performance comparable to larger capacity bikes, known for its precise handling and rev-happy two-stroke engine.
Model Line Introduction:
The RS 250 was introduced in 1995, but the 1994 model year refers to the earliest production models, often considered the MK1 variant.
Production Period:
1995-2003 (with significant updates over the years)
Manufacturing Location:
Italy